Chapter 7
Leah had a long day at work and still had to put up with some of the folks in town. They still didn't warm up to her that easy because she was a young girl with several businesses in their eyes. She didn't want to make matters worse but she was keeping secrets from them. Her fiance didn't even know. However the town did love her for the kindness she had shown and continues to do so.
Tully had made it to Nevada City in a week, met with the army, and agreed on more blankets for the Indians in that tribe. Winter was approaching and they needed to stay warm.
He headed for Montana Territory when his business was done in Nevada. He was so anxious to get back to Glenwood Springs to be in the arms of the woman he loved so much.
She couldn't explain what was happening but she could connect with Tully in a way that no one else could. Leah knew when he was hurt or when danger was around him.
The town was preparing for their big Thanksgiving supper they did every year. They all brought different foods. Leah decided to bring all the turkey and pecan pie. Shw was hoping Tully would make it back in time because she didn't know a thing about hunting yet.
At last, he made it to Montana It was home to the Northern Cheyenne Indians. Tully met with a seargant Gains. Therewere no provisions orcoming in at all. Tully wasn't leaving until Gains reached an agreement with him. A few days later the provisions started showing up. It contained wheat, dry beans, and dried beef. As he was leaving he saw dog soldiers all around the village. He knew the tribe would survive as long asthe warriors stayed true to theirselves.
A strange feeling came over him when he headed home and started thinking about being reunited with his woman. As he reaches Pike's Edge something spooks his horse and he was bucked off. Tully couln't move and started calling out for Leah.
She woke up instantly and knew danger surounded him. Leah rode as fast as she could to find him. Chief also was aware of the matter and joins her in the search.
They saw him in the distance lying motionless on the ground. She jumps from Bear and ran toward him. I am here my love. Please hang on and don't leave me she whispers as she began to cry histarically.
He spoke her name softly, "Leah."
"Don't move Ryan." I need to check you for broken bones or bleeding. She couldn't see anything on the outside. Leah was worried what was on the inside as he fell unconsious again.
Chief knew there was internal bleeding and made a sweat lodge so he could help Leah start the healing process in order for him to survive.
She constantly watches over him for three days. She bathed, fed, and never left his side. He finally woke as she started to grow tired from the lack of sleep. I told you I was coming back. You can't get rid of me that easy. I called to the spirits for guidance and I saw your face he smiles.
I'm so glad you're safe. I thought I lost you. By the way, I volunteered to bring turkey and pecan pie to the Thanksgiving dinner. Will you help me with the turkeys she asks?
I'll take care of it all. Don't go fretting over it. He starts kissing her as he unbuttons her blouse.
Leah quickly stops him. Chief is outside and has been chanting ever since we got her. Please go and see him.
Chief, thank you for saving my life.
I did not do it. Leah saved you and never gave up on you. All I did was build the lodge for her. She nursed you back to health as she gave her own blood to save you. You two are one spirit now. Go, love her and never let her go he stated as he left.
Tully was in shock by what she had done. He knew that he couldn't be without her now. I owe you my life. Chief told me what you did. I'll always be indebted to you.
I am glad to see your well. That is all that matters. She kisses him softly as they both held one another.
Leah and Chief provided a great deal of love for Tully. That is what gave him the will to live.
I was wondering when you wanted to get married or if you still do, she wondered.
Of course I do. I was thinking springtime he told her as he kisses her hand.
I need tell you someting. She hesitated and turned away.
"Leah," you're holding something back and I can tell. You know there is nothing that you can't say to me. Talk to me he whispered.
I think we need time apart for a while. I will go back to New York after Thanksgiving and stay with mother.
I'll see you later. Please don't follow me she said in a low tone as she was leaving.
Tully was lost for words. He knew something was seriously wrong and knew Chief would know what to do. There is something wrong with Leah. I don't understand. She won't talk to me or look me in the eye. What am I going to do?
You need to talk to her. Also, give her a little space. You will work things out in time Chief explained.
Leah was so confused about how to tell Tully the secret she was keeping from him.
Tully brought more than enough turkey for everyone as he promised. There was a lot of fun and laughter that day. He saw Leah and grabs her by the hand. I need to talk to you. He asked her to marry him again in front of the entire town. She said yes since everyone was watching.
She tried to pull away but Tully would not let her go. We will let you all know as soon as wee set a date. The whole town was estactic about the news.
Leah finally left when no one was watching. She went home to pack.
"Tully," I just recieved a telegram about horse thieves and robbers headed this way. I wanted to let you know. Be sure to warn Leah about it since she lives alone sheriff Matthew told him.
Tully noticed Leah was not around town. He decided to head on out to her place and check on her.
She was loading her carriage when the animals started going crazy. Leah walked to the barn and didn't see anyone or anthing. She heads back in her home to get rested up for her long trip.
Do not move or scream woman. You will be safe a strange man said as he closed the front door.
Tully made it to her home and knew something was not right. He saw three men inside. All of them were wearing guns. There he saw his beloved Leah in a chair bounded and gagged. He was getting infuriated and knew he had to keep his temper cool for the sake of her safety.
Chief showed up with a few other Cheyenne Indians. The spirits led me here. They are in danger. She is carrying your child.
Tully was stunned. He was happy about the baby but wondered why Leah didn't tell him.
We need your horses, your money, and we will be on our way. Neverthless, first I will have a little fun with you. Let see if I can make you scream a little he said as he threw her on the bed.
I like it when young women like you try to fight me. He removes her gag, rips opens her blouse, and yanks her skirt from her waist. She tries fighting him and lets out a loud cry.
The man went for her bloomers but Tully kicked the door in by that time.
He was outraged that any man would dare to hurt the woman he loves. Tully grabbed the man by his neck and threw him across the table.
I got you and your safe. Tully pulls her close. We can get married on the fifth of next month.
There is 25 more chapters of lies, deception, secrets, and mysteries that involve nearly the whole town.