Read Spoiled Evelyn (The Mail Order Brides of Boot Creek Book 4) for Free Online Page B

not.”
    “You can’t mean to be this far from your family. No holidays with those you love, no Christmas, no church functions and weddings and things. You’ll miss it all.”
    Taking a deep breath, I said, “It’s time for a change. I feel in my heart this is where I belong now.”
    “It’s a horrible town. There’s nothing here.”
    “I’m here. My future’s here.”
    She harrumphed. “Oh, bother.”

Chapter 6
    A fter a refreshing nap , I woke to find that lamps had been lit, as the sun had gone down. I luxuriated in a bath, indulging myself for an hour in the tub, while Tory washed and rinsed my hair. The tresses being as long as they were, I sat by the fire waiting for them to dry, although most were still damp when Tory arranged them cleverly on top of my head.
    By eight o’clock, I had dressed in a tight-fitting bodice, with a crisp flare that hung over a bustled skirt. I adored the satiny patterned fabric, with a high-necked, black frill collar. Whilst examining myself in a mirror, I felt certain I was ready to join the others at dinner.
    “You’ll be late.”
    “Only by a few minutes. It’ll be my grand entrance.”
    Tory stood behind me with her hands on her hips. “You look lovely, as always.”
    “Thank you.” Retrieving my drawstring purse from the dresser, I held it on a gloved hand. “Then I’m off.”
    “When can I expect you?”
    “Eleven or later.”
    “Very well. Shall I have tea waiting?”
    “That would be nice. Enjoy your quiet evening.” I strolled from the room, heading towards the door.
    She followed me through the parlor. “I think I’ll read.”
    “Excellent idea.” My hand wrapped around the knob. “I’ll take you to lunch tomorrow. Would you like that?”
    “I suppose.” She seemed a little low on spirits.
    “Smile, Tory. All is not lost.”
    “I miss my family.”
    Irritated, I ignored that comment, knowing I would have to deal with this issue at a later date. If I decided to stay in Boot Creek, I might have to let Tory go. That bothered me immensely, as she was more than my maid, and I would never find another like her.
    Pushing aside these unhappy thoughts, I descended the three flights of stairs to the foyer, where ladies and gentlemen had gathered, waiting to be seated in the dining room. The glow of lamps cast a flattering light, and, as I passed a mirror, I noted that I did not appear as pale now.
    “My dear.”
    I turned to find Percy, who had changed into a frock coat and top hat. “Hello.”
    “I was waiting for you.”
    “I’m sorry I’m late.”
    His appreciative gaze drifted over me. “It was worth every minute.”
    I smiled. “I’m glad you think so.”
    “You truly are one of the loveliest women I’ve ever seen.”
    “Oh, you mustn’t flatter me.” I placed a hand on his proffered arm, near the wrist. “But thank you.”
    “I’ve a table, but I won’t have you to myself, I’m afraid. I’ll have to share you with the mayor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Kelly, and,” he grimaced, “Mr. Brittle.”
    The toe of my boot caught the edge of the carpet. “Oh!”
    His hand grasped mine. “Do be careful, Evelyn.”
    “I’m not normally so clumsy.” People glanced our way, leaving me slightly embarrassed. “I doubt anyone saw that.”
    “No, you’re fine.” He guided me across the room, where the din of conversations drifted into quiet murmurs. “We’ll be the talk of the town tomorrow.”
    I spied the table, because I recognized Mr. Brittle, who seemed to sit taller than everyone else. A distinguished looking couple sat next to the mayor and his wife, and I assumed they were Mr. and Mrs. Kelly. When we approached, the men stood.
    Mr. Brittle grinned. “Good evening, Miss Warner.”
    “Hello.” I glanced at the expectant faces around me. “I’m sorry I’m late.”
    “My dear,” said Percy. “This is Mr. and Mrs. Hershey and Mr. and Mrs. Kelly.”
    “How do you do?” I asked politely.
    “It’s good to meet you,”