Author: Sophie Dawson
Category: Western
Go to read content：https://onlinereadfreenovel.com/sophie-dawson/page,10,519326-his_protective_wings.html
“Libby is getting you both some food. Let’s go down and get you fed.” As Kathryn stepped into the hall, Ruth said, “Are you still scared?”
“No, Mama, fear is not of God. I’m not going to let being afraid keep me from having fun and doing what I want. I trust that God will protect me. It’s in Psalm 91:4. Pastor preached on it a few weeks ago. I memorized it. He will cover you with His feathers; you will take refuge under His wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield. I know He’ll protect me.
“Mr. Bragg will be found sometime soon. I’m not going to let him take the joy from my life.”
Kathryn ran to the stairs and clumped down as fast as she could. Ruth followed more slowly.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
A FEW DAYS later, Ruth was mending in the dining room. Libby was sewing something for the twins and Blanche was drinking a cup of tea. She’d just returned from working in the café. A knock sounded on the front door. Blanche got up to answer it.
Ruth could see it was Sheriff Riverby and set her mending aside and rose. Maybe he had news of Ira Bragg who hadn’t been found. His room at the station had been empty when they searched it. Seems he wasn’t planning on returning to Stones Creek when he kidnapped Kathryn.
“Afternoon, Sheriff. What can I do for you?” Blanche held the door open so he could enter.
Newt tipped his hat. “Ma’am. I’ve got three women here who’re needing what this house gives— sanctuary. They escaped the King Gang yesterday and walked to town. Not sure how far it was, but I’m sure they need food and shelter. Will…”
Blanche cut him off. “Of course, come in.” She brushed Newt aside and gently pulled the women into the house. “Come to the kitchen. We’ll…”
Tadpole, Mae, and Boone pushed past Ruth in their hurry to get to the women, hugging them with all their might.
The back door slammed, and Chloe ran into the room. “Flora. Sally. Oh my word, Ada. Praise the Lord.” She hugged one, then another, then the last, repeating the hugs several times.
Soon they were sitting at the table, bowls of rich stew in front of the newcomers. Sally Rife, a short woman with hair that might be blonde once it was washed had asked about her daughter Nina. Libby had taken her upstairs to see the child as she napped. Sally was eager to see her but didn’t want to wake her up.
Flora Potter was tall and big boned. Both of her children had died in the measles epidemic. There was a sadness in her eyes that Ruth longed to ease.
Ada was Boone’s older sister. Rather than leave her with the other children, the men decided she was old enough to use and abuse as they did all the women. She was fourteen. Ruth wanted to wrap the girl in her arms and help take away all the pain. She looked at the women and knew they’d all suffered the same. Ruth understood a little, but Chloe McIlroy understood so much more. She’d been kidnapped at age ten and lived with the gang until they abandoned her and her son Duncan when she was about to give birth to Lil Pen.
Nina was overjoyed to see her mother again, when she woke up from her nap. She expressed the feelings of the children and the women when she said, “I no want to go back, Mama. Want to stay here. I gots a bed and lots to eat. Pretty dress.”
Sally kissed Nina. “I don’t want to go back either. I want to stay here, too.”
~~~~~
Massot stood holding Chester’s reins as Sheriff Riverby and Nugget Nate Ryder argued. Nate and his wife Penny had arrived a couple of days earlier.
They were Ben Cutler’s uncle and aunt. Nugget Nate was a crusty man from the mountains of Kentucky. He’d made a fortune when he found a gold mine in New Mexico years before. He was the man who sponsored Sanctuary Place and Sanctuary House, though those who knew them well knew Penny was truly in charge of their marriage and many of the philanthropic endeavors the couple were involved in.
Nate and Riverby had spent the last couple of days arguing on how the search for the King Gang was going to be carried out. Finally, Riverby allowed Nate to scout for the outlaw camp. Now, Riverby was explaining who would stay in town and where they would be guarding and who was going with the posse.
“You’s about done jawin’, Sheriff? I’m a thinkin’ we’s a needin’ ta be headin’ out. We’s burnin’ daylight.” Nugget Nate straightened from leaning against the jail wall.
“Yeah, Nate. I think we’ve covered everything.”
Massot mounted. He’d stopped by the House to speak with Ruth and Kathryn. All the Ladies were scared. Four and Hank Johnson were guarding the House. Several other men were stationed around town in case the outlaws came while the posse was out.
“You be careful, Massot.” Ruth had looked up at him with such worry in her eyes he’d had difficulty not wrapping his arms around her and not letting go. Kathryn had clung to him as he said good-bye as well.
“Let’s ride,” Riverby hollered. The men of the posse set their horses to a gallop, Nugget Nate in the lead as he’d found the camp of the King Gang earlier in the morning.
~~~~~
Ruth sat on a bed in the room several boys slept in on the third floor. It was to the back of the House. Hank Johnson and the lawyer called Four had instructed everyone to stay there. Kathryn sat on one side of her, Tadpole on the other.
The waiting was horrible. The gang must know that the women who’d escaped and the children they’d abandoned were living there. The House would be a target. The older children understood what was going on and what could happen. The littler ones couldn’t and weren’t happy to have to stay in the stuffy room with the doors and windows closed. The room was large but with so many people it was hot. No one had thought to bring water or snacks upstairs.
The Ladies spent time praying and then explaining to the three women about God. None knew much and what they did know was a jumbled mess of ideas.
The twins and Nina had fallen asleep as it was their normal nap time.
“I need to use the necessary,” Tadpole complained. “I can’t hold it no more.”
Ruth pointed to the chamber pot in the corner.
Tadpole stood with his hands on his hips. “I ain’t gonna go in there with all these girls in here.”
“Then I guess you’re going to hold it since you aren’t leaving the room.” Ruth wasn’t going to risk him wandering off to find Hank or Four who were watching from the front windows.
Tadpole twisted his mouth in irritation which changed to jaw dropping shock when gunshots began firing both in front of the House and in the Main Street. He dove into Ruth’s lap.
Everyone dropped to the floor and slid under the beds. Hank had instructed that it would be safest for them there. The twins and Nina started crying, startled from their naps at the loud sounds. Libby held one of her toddlers, Flora wiggled under the bed with her and the other one.
The shooting went on and on. Kathryn, pressed against Ruth, holding her tight around her waist. Tadpole did the same on the other side.
All Ruth could think about was Massot. She knew he’d be in the thick of the fighting. He was just that dedicated a man to want to make sure the outlaws were stopped. He’d do whatever was necessary, even give his own life if it came to that.
He might die. Killed by a bullet fired by a criminal who cared nothing about anyone. Ruth’s heart squeezed so tightly in her chest she nearly couldn’t breathe. She might lose him. Never see his lopsided grin. Never hear the gravelly voice again. Never have a chance to tell him she loved him.
The realization that she loved Massot came hard in the tight, dusty space under the bed. Tears gathered. As she lay there with her arms around Kathryn and Tadpole, Ruth knew her fear of a man was nothing compared to the fear of losing the man she loved.
~~~~~
Massot helped gather up the bodies and wounded outlaws. God had been gracious and none of the posse or townsfolk were killed or severely injured. Doc Eli was tending to them. The injured of the King Gang would be treated once everyone else was.
The Ladies of Sanctuary House had instructed the posse
to come and get a meal they had prepared once everything was settled. Massot was hungry, but that wasn’t why he wanted to go to the House.
No word of injuries to townsfolk was brought by Four or Hank which relieved his worry for the women and children. Massot and Red Dickerson, foreman at Hawk’s Wing Ranch had fought in the street in front of and the alley behind the House.
At Sheriff Riverby’s call releasing the posse, Massot hurried down the street between the House and dress shop. As he rounded the corner, the door opened and Ruth ran out and down the porch steps. She crossed the yard, coming straight toward him. Her arms were outstretched and she grabbed him in a big hug.
“Oh, Massot. You’re all right. I was so scared. More scared than I’ve ever been in my life. I was so afraid you would be killed.” She began covering his face with kisses. “I couldn’t stand it if you had been shot.” She kissed him again. “I’m so thankful you’re okay. You are okay, aren’t you? I don’t see any blood or bandages. Red was injured and Gema ran to Doc’s office. Is he okay? I’m so glad you all won. I was so very scared I’d never get the chance to tell you I love you. Will you marry me? Please say yes.” She sprinkled more kisses on his face, then opened her mouth to begin talking again. Massot took the opportunity to keep her quiet by cradling her face in his hands and pressing his lips to hers and not letting go.
Against her lips, he said, “Yes.”
When he released her and gazed into her eyes, Ruth asked, “Yes, what?”
“Yes, I’ll marry you. Yes, I love you. Yes, I’m fine.”
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
KATHRYN WAS ECSTATIC. She jumped and threw her arms around Massot asking if she could call him Papa. As she chattered excitedly, he decided she got her babbling ability from her mother.
He and Ruth had taken Kathryn across to his building and up to the apartment. They didn’t want to discuss their upcoming nuptials at the House where they might become the center of attention and not be able to celebrate as the new family they were becoming.
They decided to make the announcement the following day. Today had been both upsetting and exciting. Though their news was good, they didn’t want it to be overshadowed by the killing and injuries.
They were still in the apartment. Massot took Kathryn’s hands. “I have some more news for you. Ira Bragg had joined up with the King Gang. He was killed in the shootout. You don’t have to worry about him coming for you anymore.”
First delight, then sadness flitted across her features. “I’m glad that he can’t get me, but I’m sorry he got killed. Now he can’t be forgiven by accepting Jesus.”
Massot drew her against him. “That’s very forgiving of you. Many people wouldn’t think that way.”
“Maybe not, but I want to be forgiven so I have to forgive. The Bible and Pastor Noah say that.”
“Yes, they do.” He hugged her then let her go. “How about we go get some of that food you Ladies promised the posse?”
Kathryn bounced as Ruth and Massot looked on. “I’m not sure I can keep this a secret. I’m so happy.”
“How about pretending it’s a Christmas present? And it’s only until tomorrow,” Ruth smiled and laid a gentle hand on Kathryn’s shoulder.
“Oh, all right. If I must, but only until tomorrow. I just know I’ll bust if I have to keep it in any longer.”
Kathryn ran down the stairs. Massot took the opportunity to kiss Ruth again.
~~~~~
Kathryn was still bouncy the next day and Ruth had to remind her not to give away their secret. She’d told Libby, Laura, and Blanche that Massot was coming to supper that evening. The ladies had smiled at her as if they suspected something but didn’t say anything. Hank Johnson would be there too. Since he and Laura had become engaged back in March, Hank was a regular at supper.
Tadpole was excited about Massot coming too. He idolized the man and was over at the shop whenever he knew Massot was there.
Ruth watched him trying to play catch with one hand. His summer was going to be limited with his cast on. There would be no swimming, playing ball wasn’t looking too promising either since he dropped the ball more than he caught it.
Massot appeared, carrying tools as he headed to his shop. Tadpole abandoned the game, running to greet him. Ruth watched the interplay between the two. Massot gave one of his rare broad smiles and ruffled Tadpole’s hair. The boy now carried a hammer, though he’d acted like he wanted to carry the saw.
Ruth smiled and went into the House to continue supper preparations. Sally was watching the twins and Nina play on the porch while Libby worked at the general store. Blanche was in the kitchen.
“I see you made a cake today, Ruth,” Blanche said. “Any special reason?”
Ruth knew Blanche was hinting at something and suspected Kathryn may not have been able to keep the secret.
“Celebrating the end of the King Gang, Blanche. We don’t have to worry about them or Ira Bragg anymore. I hate the deaths but am glad their reign of terror is ended.”
“I agree.” When Blanche winked, Ruth was sure the beans had been spilled.
They worked on supper and when the front screen door began slamming shut over and over she knew the children were traipsing in. Ruth and Blanche looked at each other and shook their heads, smiling.
Tadpole came running into the kitchen, his cast banging on the doorframe. “Mr. Massot is here. I helped him put his tools away. He’s been working on Doc Steele’s house. It’s just about done. He says they can move in next week. Then that lawyer is moving into their apartment. Can I help with all the moving?”
“I don’t know, Tadpole. You’ll have to ask Doc or Mr. Farnsworth.”
“That ain’t his name. It’s Mr. Four.” Tadpole ran into the wash room. He had supper duties that night.
Ruth decided not to correct him. He’d never remember anyway. Everyone was calling the lawyer Four, so Mr. Four worked well. It had taken long enough to get Tadpole to remember the title when speaking to grownups, at least now he was using them.
Massot stuck his head in the kitchen. “Anything I can help with?” His gravelly voice sent shivers up Ruth’s spine. Rather than fear, they brought on unfamiliar yearnings. She looked at Blanche who grinned.
Ruth was saved from replying by Hank and Laura coming in through the back door. It was time to start taking food into the dining room. She handed a large bowl filled with green beans to Massot, feeling herself blush.
It wasn’t long before everyone was eating and sharing their activities of the day.
When dessert was served, Massot stood up. “I’ve got an announcement.”
Blanche grinned, looking straight at Ruth.
“Nugget Nate came by today. He’s having a party Saturday evening at the warehouse. It’s going to be what he calls a hoedown. There’ll be food, which everyone can contribute to, and music and dancing. It’s for everyone, both young and adult.”
The children all cheered.
“Another thing. Ruth has agreed to marry me. We haven’t set a date but,” he looked straight at her as he took her hand, drawing her to her feet. “It’s not going to be long.”
All the Ladies jumped up and surrounded Ruth, hugging and congratulating her. Massot stayed close to her, though Kathryn wormed her way into his embrace, smiling up at him.
~~~~~
Once the excitement of the announcement of their engagement was over, things settled down to a normal routine. The new ladies from the King Gang were responsible for the dishes with the children’s help.
Laura and Hank came to Ruth and Massot asking them to come talk out on the porch. The early June evening was warm and long. Most of the children were in the yard playing. Hank and Laura sat on the porch swing while Ruth and Massot sat in wicker chairs. Massot had placed his close to hers and held her hand. Hank had his arm stretched behind Laura’s back.
“Massot, Ruth,” Hank began. “Congratulations. I’d recommend a short time before your wedding too. We’ve waited since March and
, in my opinion, it’s been too long.”
Laura swatted him softly on the arm. “Stop that. What we were wondering is whether you two would like to have a double wedding with us? You know it’s on the twenty-sixth.”
Massot’s smile stretched across his face. Ruth was a little shocked, but when she looked at him and saw how the idea pleased him, she grinned and nodded.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
THE WAREHOUSE NEXT to the railroad tracks had been cleaned and a large space had been created by moving everything to the sides. A platform was along the back wall and a number of Stones Creek residents played instruments so others could dance.
Nugget Nate had purchased food from the hotel and café and the women had all contributed. There were two tables of drinks. One was available to all. The other restricted to adults. Several of the youth had tried to sneak sips but Mrs. Fugard kept an eye on that table.
Massot was standing alongside of the dancing, watching Ruth dance with Tadpole. The boy had been sullen the last couple of days and she was trying to cheer him up.
“Massot,” Nugget Nate said as he stepped up beside him. “How’s ya doin’?”
“Doing well, Nate. Your Penny and Gema Dickerson sounded real good on those fiddles,” Massot replied.
“Don’t go callin’ it a fiddle. Penny gets mighty riled up iffen I do. It be a violin.” The way he said the word in an attempted sophisticated manner made Massot chuckle.
Nate looked at him squinting one eye. “Ya ain’t as growly as I remember ya ta be. What’s caused that?”
Massot nodded toward Ruth. “Miss Naylor and I are getting married in a couple of weeks. Double wedding with Hank Johnson and Mrs. Duffle.”
Nate smacked Massot on the back. “Congratulations. I knowed about Hank and Laura. Ain’t heard a nothin’ ‘bout you an’ Ruth.”
“Just decided. Hank suggested we get married at the same time. We thought it would be a fine time to tie the knot.”
“Ya gonna live above your shop?”