Forever’s Promise

Chapter One
 Wesley Holden and her brother, Clyde, had built this homestead in Kansas together, from nothing. Every time Wes walked the fields, her chest filled with pride at what they’d accomplished so far. Yes, it had been grueling at times, but ultimately, they would gain from whatever effort they put in—and that was rewarding on every level.
 Back in Tennessee, there’d been pressure from her aunt and uncle to marry. Most young women her age were already with child. But matrimony felt like one more cage she needed to escape. When she abandoned her dresses for trousers, she’d done just that.
 In the beginning, she’d felt self-conscious and worried she’d be found out, but as time went on she became more relaxed. She was tall and a bit lanky, with no obvious curve to her hips. And her chest was easy to disguise. No one gave her a second glance. Especially if she let Clyde do most of the talking. He’d gotten on board with the idea quickly. Traveling with a brother was a lot less complicated than traveling with a sister. Plus, it was a lot easier to do the work required to homestead in britches. Wes reasoned that her manner of dress was practical and pragmatic. It just felt right.
 The Chapter Ten
 Wes watched Charlotte for a moment from the foot of the bed. She waited for Charlotte to notice her and stir. When she didn’t, Wes touched Charlotte’s shoulder lightly. It took a moment for Charlotte to wake up.
 “The food is ready.” Once Charlotte was fully awake, Wes stepped back to allow her space to get out of the bed.
 Wes had prepared a rabbit stew, and from the look of it, Charlotte could really use a hot meal. And frankly, so could she. Wes did what felt natural, or as natural as anything could feel in this sort of situation. Where she came from, when someone was in need, you fed them and gave them shelter.
 “Why don’t you come sit at the table?” 
 When someone passed away, people brought food. If unable to feed the soul at least the body could be nourished to sooth the grief. But at the far edge of nowhere, community was spread thin. There’d been no one to help her mourn the loss of her brother. She’d been on her own.
 Charlotte looked hungrily toward the steaming pot and nodded. 
 “I suppose I could eat something. Thank you.” Charlotte stood awkwardly by the table.
 “If you want to sit I can bring you