Emma’s brow furrowed. “I hope she did. I hope she knew that I loved her.”
“She did. She even said as much in her letters. Take comfort in that. She knew.”
Tears came unbidden, and Emma bowed her head. “I’m glad you think so. That eases my mind.” The grandfather clock in the hall struck two, and Emma straightened. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a bank draft.
“I’ve been thinking a lot, as I said. I know that there are things on the ranch that you and David want to accomplish, and I want you to have this. In appreciation for all that you did for me over the years.”
Clara took the check and looked at the writing. Her eyeswidened. “I can’t take this. That’s a lot of money, Emma. You may need this.”
She shook her head. “I can honestly say that it will take very little away from my wealth. Tommy was incredibly rich. I didn’t even realize how much he owned. He had stocks, land, and investments from his father and his aunt. He left the family investing to Colton, who managed everything in an amazing fashion, but he also had another man who invested for him.” She lowered her voice. “I don’t think anyone knew about him. He came to see me last week and told me about other investments that did very well. There’s artwork that Tommy bought on whims when he was out traveling about, buildings he leased out, and an entire fleet of ships to carry freight and passengers. Those I knew about because Tommy promised me that one day we would board those ships and travel the world. For a man who gave the appearance of taking nothing seriously, Tommy was quite ingenious. I have more than I can ever hope to know how to spend.
“I know that when David inherited his uncle’s ranch, it was pretty run-down. I want you to have this money to help make the ranch everything you’ve ever dreamed. What’s the sense of my having money if I can’t help those I love? And I love you and David. I admire you more than I can say. Let me do this. If you approve it, I know David will.”
Clara stared at the check for a moment, then looked up to meet Emma’s gaze. “This will change everything for us. Thank you.”
Emma smiled and dabbed the napkin to her eyes. “You’ve made me so happy. I’ll look forward to seeing how you two change the place.”
Clara folded the check and put it into her purse. “When will you leave for Cheyenne?”
“Within the next few weeks. And I hope to take Rosie with me.”
“Will the Benton brothers allow her to go?” Clara frowned and glanced toward the archway into the hall.
“I’m speaking to them about it. Colton seems positive about the idea.” Emma lowered her voice again. “Frankly, I think Walter and Ernest will be glad to have her gone. They’ve never had much time for her. I think they’re embarrassed by her, even though she’s perfectly precious.”
“How sad. Rose is a delightful young woman.”
“She is, and I think Colton realizes she’ll be better off with me. At least, I hope that he still feels that way. With Benton men, you can never tell what they’re thinking. I suppose, however, we shall all know soon enough.”
Emma was surprised when Mrs. Lansdale came to her and announced that Colton would like to talk to her in the library. She found him staring out the window, looking quite pensive.
“You wanted to see me?”
He turned and for a moment just stared at her. Emma found his study to be a bit unnerving. He had the most intense dark brown eyes, and they always seemed able to spy out the most intimate details.
“I did,” he finally replied. “I’ve been thinking about your move to Cheyenne.”
“So have I. I’d like to leave before the end of the month. I realize we can still get into bad weather, but I thought if we took the train, then there would be fewer worries.”
Colton moved closer to where she stood. His presence seemed to fill the space around her. She’d always admired Colton and his ability to lead. When Lawrence Benton had fallen ill, Colton kept things running without so much as a pause. He knew the family business in detail and had a confidence of authority that none of his brothers had mastered.
He seemed to consider what she had said, then nodded. “The new line from Fort Worth to Denver would be perfect, and the family has free passes to ride anytime we like. Is Rosie still of a mind to go with you?”
“Yes, and I would very much love to have her. I figure it’s only right I spend some of my inheritance on her care, and it would honor Tommy at the same time. He loved her so ... not that you don’t, but I know how busy you are. And Rosie and I are good for each other.”
“I know you are, and that’s why I believe she should go with you. Cheyenne is a long way away, though, and it’s still rather wild. But truthfully, we’ve got our problems in Texas too. Walter and Ernest left the decision up to me, and I think the opportunity is a good one.”
Emma smiled, knowing this would please Rosie. And having her sister-in-law live with her in Cheyenne would comfort Emma as well. “Thank you so much, Colton. I appreciate the trust you’re putting in me.”
“It’s obvious you love Rosie, and she loves you. She won’t get that from Walter and Ernest, and although I try to show her my love, I’m not the best at it.”
“You weren’t allowed to practice much with your father being so very demanding of you.”
“Yes.” Colton’s expression was rather sad as he looked away.
Emma touched his arm, something that appeared to surprise them both. He looked at her oddly for a moment, and she released him. “I’m sorry. I just ... well, it’s never too late to change. Rosie needs your love more than ever after losing Tommy.”
“Maybe it would be smart for me to come along and see you two settled in. Even stay a month or two and conduct some business with the Union Pacific.”
