A few feet on the other side, a hand grabbed her arm. Gen twirled around to face Nick.
“The prodigal son has returned to find the fatted cow was slain for his brothers feast – not his.” Gen couldn’t suppress the annoyance that infiltrated her voice.
“You’re angry. I’m sorry, Genevieve. An emergency came up. I had to break loose from the farm.”
“But you are here now, hiding in the bushes instead of congratulating your little brother on his special day. Why?”
“I can’t say. I just wanted to talk to you,” said Nick, glancing nervously in the direction of the party scene.
“Have you done something illegal, Nicolas Trafton?”
“Of course not.” His words did not sound convincing. “I wanted to know why you snuck off and married the first bimbo you met?”
“Oh, it’s about me sneaking off. Now it all makes sense,” she said sarcastically.
“Genevieve, I know this man, Trace Stapleton. He goes through wives like water. The first one died rather brutally and the second, well she left him after one month. What have you gotten yourself into?”
“Trace has been the perfect gentleman and protector since we wed, and he is not the first bimbo I met. I believe you are, brother dear.”
“Forget about me. It’s you I’m concerned about.”
“Save your concern for your own hide. A person who needs to watch his brother’s wedding from behind a tree is a troubled man.”
Nick did not let up. “Why did you marry the day after I left home? Why the rush?”
“It’s none of your business. But it may please you to know I’m happy. It was time for me to leave the farm with Sandy moving in. Sharing a home with two sisters will be challenging enough for the newlyweds. Trace and I wanted to marry anyway, so we did it on impulse and have not regretted our decision.”
Nick ran his fingers through his thick hair and sighed. “You seem content. Guess that gives me some measure of relief.”
“So, back to you. Swear on Papa’s grave you are not doing something illegal.”
“Genevieve, you know I hate farm work.”
“I know, but that does not answer my question.”
“I’m just feeling my oats, seeing where I belong in this big old world.”
He didn’t sound convincing and Genevieve rested a hand on his arm. “You are a big boy, Nick. I can only hope and pray you will keep your good sense about you. Stay safe.”
Nick pulled her into his arms. “I miss you Genevieve. You were always my favorite.” She rested in his embrace briefly and then pushed away.
“When will I see you again?” Gen asked.
“Got some prospects. Should be back before fall sets in.”
“Then I’ll be watching for you. I live in town now so drop by and visit us anytime.”
Gen sat quietly in the carriage all the way home. The heavens lit the sky with starry brilliance and she hid the splendor in her heart. As a falling star streamed toward the earth, she lifted a prayer for Jethro and Sandy’s future happiness. She could only hope that she and Nick would benefit from some of the leftover stardust sprinkling over the land while on its descent.
Trace attempted to rouse her. “So, was the wedding all you expected it to be?”
She turned toward the man seated by her side “Yes, and more. My brother is the happiest I’ve ever seen him. And Sandy, I suspect, is grateful I’m out of the way of their budding romance.”
“Newlyweds should be alone for a spell. Lots of adjustments,” said Trace.
“They are not alone by a long shot,” said Gen, her laughter filling the night air. “But I’ve spoken to the others and encouraged them to allow Sandy and Jethro breathing space.”
“And what of the other brother? The one hiding in the trees?” asked Trace.
A shadow fell across Gen’s face and she frowned. “I don’t know. He never really explained why he didn’t join the party or what he’s doing since leaving the farm. Just pulled the big brother act, getting all fired up about me and you.” She peered at Trace. “Why would he think I made a poor choice for a husband? Do you have secrets?”
“Not that I know of. I don’t believe I’ve ever met Nick.”
“His greatest concern was your past relationships with women – or wives to be more precise.”
“My wives? Marriages at the Agency are all legally registered. It’s not a secret, especially for folks who stick their nose in other people’s business.”
“Something about one murdered and the other leaving you. Doesn’t speak well for your record.”
“You know the Agency rules, and made your choice. Are you wanting to back out? Because I can arrange that and get a replacement with some credentials that will give me a real case to solve.” Trace sounded angry and she felt confused.
“I don’t understand. Isn’t a missing person case considered important?”
“For beginners, I suppose.”
“I am a beginner, and I thought you were fine with that.”
“The Friskin’s pull a lot of weight in Denver so Archie figured it was something we needed to jump on, and you were the first willing girl to walk in the door.”
“So, am I to assume I was merely hired for lack of a better applicant?”
Trace focused on her face and seemed to back down on his frontal attack. “You’re doing great. Let’s forget this conversation.”
“Suits me fine,” she said as she straightened in the seat and returned her gaze to the sunset. “I’m too tired to fight, anyway.”
The next morning Trace came racing into the house. She was just about to ask where he’d disappeared to, when he declared, “Change of plans.”
“Excuse me? No Kansas?” Gen said.
“No. Colorado Springs. I
