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given her, this one referring to someone as smart as a wolf, and able to outwit humans.
    She forced a smile. “He’s all bluster,” she lied. “Nothing to worry about.” Being truthful to his core, Thomas often didn’t see dishonesty in those he trusted. But she dare not let him know the danger Marsh posed. The Cheyenne was capable of great violence when necessary or if someone he cared about was threatened. She loved that about him—and feared the consequences of it.
    Noticing Lillie rubbing her eyes, Pru gratefully sought a change in subject. “Lillie looks tired. Have you found a place to stay?”
    â€œWe stay with you,” the girl said, yawning. “I not sleep outside.”
    â€œOf course not.” Seeing Marsh shake hands with the patron and fearing he might head their way, Pru motioned Thomas toward the exit behind him. “If you don’t mind staying at a colored hotel,” she said, as they stepped outside, “I’m sure they have room. The Beckworth Arms, two blocks south of the depot on Third. Do you have money?”
    Thomas nodded. “The Scotsman pays well.”
    â€œI’m in room two eleven. I’ll leave the door unlocked. Go now. I’d rather Mr. Marsh not know you’re here.”
    â€œDo you fear him?”
    â€œOf course not, but—”
    â€œCome on, Daddy,” Lillie cut in, saving Pru from further explanation. “It cold and I still gots to pee.”
    â€œWe’ll talk later, Thomas, I promise.” On impulse, Pru reached out and put her hand on his arm. Feeling the solid strength beneath the sleeve of his jacket reassured her. Gave her courage. “I’m so glad you’re here.” And she meant it. Despite her worries over Marsh, she was relieved her note hadn’t reached Thomas. Knowing she wasn’t alone and that he was nearby was a great comfort.
    Thomas studied her in that silent, probing way he had. She could almost feel him searching her mind, seeking answers to questions he hadn’t voiced. Then, with a nod, he turned and led Lillie into the fading light.
    *   *   *
    It was late. And still no Thomas. Had something happened? Or was he not as anxious to see her as she was to see him?
    Rising from the worn chair flanking the bed, Pru paced her small hotel room. After a few laps, she stopped at the window and looked out at the deserted street, her mind spinning with possibilities.
    Could Marsh have waylaid him? She thrust that frightening thought away. Perhaps Thomas hadn’t been able to get a room. Many places barred Indians. Or maybe Lillie was provingdifficult and he didn’t want to leave her until she was asleep. But how could he leave her, anyway—a blind child in a strange place? What if she woke up and found herself alone?
    She should check with the desk, find out what room they were in—or if they were even at the hotel—then go to him. Resolved, she turned from the window and almost slammed into a tall form standing directly behind her.
    She stumbled back, then felt his hand on her arm, steadying her. “Thomas? I didn’t hear you come in.”
    â€œThen you were not listening.”
    Relief thundered through her. “Oh, Thomas,” she choked out, throwing her arms around him. Now that he was here, all thought of sending him away fled her mind. Later, she would find another way to keep him safe. But for now, all she wanted was the comfort of his arms. “I was so afraid you wouldn’t come.”
    â€œYou doubt me,
Eho’nehevehohtse
?”
    â€œNo. I would never doubt you. It’s just that . . .” She took a deep breath, drawing in the earthy scent that was his own. It seemed that no matter how many months or miles separated them, the moment she saw him again, it felt as if they had never been apart. “I’ve missed you so much.”
    â€œI have missed you, too, Prudence.”
    But