The Cowboy Tutor

Judd watched Madge hustle up the steps and clenched his teeth. She worked far too hard, packing heavy baskets, carrying buckets of water, delivering the laundry and caring for the cow. Why, he’d even seen her with her head in the bonnet of their old car, adjusting things so it ran.

He wished he could help her, but his job was to teach Louisa, who devoured every bit of information he relayed to her. He’d had to send back home for several more books.

The evening he and Madge had spent together had been enjoyable, but she had pointedly avoided him since. He couldn’t help but wonder why. Had he offended her in some way? He intended to find out.

His opportunity came when she began to empty the washtubs. She grabbed her back and stretched as if she hurt. And well she might. The endless work was heavy. “I think I’ll help Madge carry away the wash water. She looks tired.”

“But—” Louisa ducked her head and swallowed loudly, then her gaze sought her sister and her expression softened. “Of course. To my shame I confess I often take her strength for granted. Yet if something were to happen to her we would all pay an awful price. Go and help her.”

“You have this book to study. You’re a good student. I feel a fraud trying to teach you. Really, all you need are the books and you could manage on your own.”

Bright color stained her cheeks. “How kind of you to say so.” She stroked Mouse’s back. “But it’s because you explain things so well.”

He chuckled. “So long as you’re happy.”

The color in her cheeks deepened. Was she so susceptible to a few kind words? The poor girl needed to get out more, mingle with people. Learn to fight her own battles. Like Madge.

Madge—who seemed set on making it impossible for him to spend time with her.

He hurried out and caught up the pails while her back was turned.

She spun around. Surprise filled her eyes and then, what he hoped was pleasure. The look disappeared so quickly he wondered if he imagined it simply because he wanted it.