Page 39 of A Redemption Mountain Christmas
“Spencer is asking about him around town. If he’s here, someone will know him.”
Sherilyn looked between them. “Could we go outside?”
“I don’t see why not.” Eliza held out her hands. “Come on then, let’s stretch our legs.”
The children slid from bed, the promise of an outing chasing away their gloom. Eliza led the children outside. Thoughit was snowing, the bright morning sunshine made it seem warmer than the freezing temperature. The brisk winter air felt refreshing after being cooped up indoors.
They hadn’t gotten far from the clinic when Tommy bent down to pick up a handful of snow. Forming it into a ball, he threw it at Sherilyn, who screamed in delight. For several minutes, the uncertainty of their future fell away as they played.
After returning his family to their ranch and completing a few more chores, Ford reined up in front of the Dixie. He hoped what he had to do wouldn’t take long.
Stepping into the dim interior, he paused to let his eyes adjust. The air was thick with tobacco smoke and the sour smell of old beer. A few patrons sat nursing drinks at the scarred wooden tables while others played cards in the corner.
Ford spotted Julia behind the bar, wiping out a glass with a rag. He angled toward her, leaning against the counter.
“Afternoon, Julia,” he said.
She glanced up, her expression guarded. “Ford. What can I do for you?”
“I was hoping you could help me out with some information.” He kept his voice low, not wanting the other patrons to overhear.
Her eyes narrowed. “What sort of information?”
“Did you hear about the children who were found by two of the deputies and taken to the clinic?”
She shook her head.
“A young boy and girl. Their last name is Weber.” He lifted a brow. “They said their uncle was supposed to meet them when the stage arrived yesterday. He never arrived. Do you know anyone with the last name of Weber?”
Julia stiffened. “The name isn’t familiar to me.” Her gaze wouldn’t meet his, which made Ford certain she was lying.
He leaned in closer, speaking barely above a whisper. “Where’s Lucien?”
“He isn’t here,” Julia said, though her face had paled. For a long moment, she stared at the floor. Then she sighed. “My brother rode in from Bozeman. He said Lucien should be back here soon.”
“When he gets here, you tell Lucien it’s important we talk.”
Before Julia could respond, Ford turned and strode outside.
Chapter Eighteen
Rachel glanced over at her sister-in-law, who sat on the wagon seat beside her, a crease of concern marking her brow. Slapping the reins, she guided the horses through a slow curve in the trail to Splendor.
Ginny nodded, her expression solemn. “I wonder what happened to those children.”
Before leaving the Christmas benefit the night before, each had heard what Deputies Zeke Boudreaux and Tucker Nolan said to the three doctors. Two children had been found huddled together outside and needed medical attention.
As they approached the clinic, a knot formed in Rachel’s stomach. She’d been a nurse, caring deeply for the well-being of folks in need. Situations involving children always weighed heavy on her heart.
Maneuvering the wagon to a stop outside the clinic, the women entered the small building. Eliza stood near the stairs, her intelligent eyes weary but kind.
“Eliza, how are you all holding up?” Rachel asked.
She gestured for them to follow her away from the exam room. “As well as can be expected. Physically, the children are fine.” Her voice dropped. “Their parents died not long ago, and they were sent here to live with their Uncle Web. Unfortunately, he didn’t meet them when they arrived. Their last name isWeber. Do either of you know anyone around Splendor going by the name?”
They shook their heads.
“I wish we could locate their uncle. So far, the responses have been the same as yours.” She trailed off with a helpless shrug.
