The Outlaw's Kiss (an Old West Romance) (Wild West Brides) Read Online Free PDF Page B

as it happens, I took over the title. As the town expands
the house will be in the middle of city bustle, but for now, it’s in a fine
position from which to observe the wailing of the apes in the camp’s heart
while being safely away from the realities of life in a mining camp.”
    He had a way of speaking that was smooth and
rambling, but each time he made a point he arched the thick, black eyebrows
that sat atop his restless eyes. He never looked at a person for more than a
few seconds before surveying the room. I dismissed that as prudent caution, all
things considered.
    Father paused a moment and swallowed hard. “Can we
see the place at least? And I’m sorry Mr. Swearengen –”
    “Al.”
    “Yes, I’m sorry Al, but I’m not sure how you want
me to remit payment. I haven’t got anything with me presently. I supposed I
could get a note of credit drawn on my bank if you wish.”
    I had never seen my father so cowed. Perhaps
‘cowed’ isn’t the right word. Everything Swearengen said made sense, and from
what Eli said, the man did have a great deal of influence, so maybe it
was best to avoid crossing him straight away. I grabbed his lapel. “Father,” I
said, “he’s being very generous in offering us this house. I’m sure a man of
his character wouldn’t offer us anything less than fitting. Isn’t that right,
Mr. Swearengen?”
    “Cultivated, sensible beauty is far better than
beauty alone. My ladies possess a great deal of the latter, but very little of
the former. I suppose that’s why they’re here. The lady,” he said as he took my
hand and raised it to his lips, “is correct. It’s a fine house, built by a
wealthy man who died. It’s also the only one available on such short notice. As
for requiring a note of credit, we’ll just say that should you fail to meet
your payments, I know where you live.”
    He replaced my hand on the bar top and placed his
upon mine. His palm was cool and dry, surprising given the heat. With a gaze of
stone, he set his eyes on my father, and clenched his jaw. Then he let out a
riotous laugh, though again, his eyes didn’t smile.
    “Yes, I see.” Father pursed his lips.
    “I’m just giving you a runaround. But your name is
good enough for me. I expect you shan’t have a problem making payments of
twenty-five dollars a week, payable on a Monday? I generally ask for payments
on Wednesdays to allow time for my clients to sell their gold, or whatever else
it is they have to offer, and get it to our remote little camp, but in your
case, I don’t think you’re here to get rich.”
    Father stiffened. “Why I’m here is none of your
business. Though if it weren’t to get rich I don’t know what would quite be the
point.”
    Mr. Swearengen raised his eyebrows, but remained
silent.
    “Any rate,” he said slowly. “My assistant will
fetch the key. I’ll keep the title here unless you decide you wish to buy
outright, though I’d like to get to know you first. Make sure you fit in with the town.” With those words his eyes fell to me and he retook my hand from
the bar. I suddenly wished I’d worn my gloves. The chill of his palm was
unnerving and his dead gaze made my soul shudder.
    “Miss Gretchen,” he didn’t take his eyes off mine,
not for a second. “Could you please bring this fine gentleman the key for that
house on the edge of town? What did you say your name was, ma’am?” I could
imagine him being related to a serpent.
    Eli stirred beside me, but no matter how badly I
wanted, I couldn’t look away from the man holding my hand. “I should go, Mr.
Swearengen,” I said in a voice barely above a whisper. “My father, he –”
    “If you need anything, come to me first, and the
sheriff second. He has a badge but I have power.” He took a breath and pulled
me close, whispering in my ear. “If anyone causes problems, tell me
about it. This isn’t a good place for someone like you. Come to me, do you
understand? I can do things no one else in