"Yes, never forget that Bronnah," he growls as he rolls her and pins her beneath him. "Never forget that you hold my heart in your hands."
Chapter 33
“This is our first stop. We’re switching to the Union Pacific Railway.” Chase explains as he guides her through the noisy, cold, railway station in Nebraska. “Stay close.”
“Not a problem,” Bronnah has her arm looped through his as she glanced around worriedly. “So many people.”
“The major railheads are always busy. Our next connection will take us straight into my hometown. Ah, there it is,” he points to a line of people at a counter with the initials, UPR on a sign overhead. Chase murmurs for her to wait for him and he marches up to the counter and steps in front of the next person waiting as he flashes his badge.
“Chase Rivers, we have two tickets for Wyoming…”
“I’m sorry Mr. Rivers,” the older man snaps. “There’s a delay. You will have a two-day layover. The railways are prepared to offer housing at the boarding house across the street at no charge to you.”
“Why? What’s happened?” Chase snaps.
“Sir that is railway business. I can assure you that…”
Chase slides his badge closer and leans in speaking intently, “I am a United States, Federal Marshall, let’s try this again.” All the color fades from the man’s face as he stares up at Chase, “Explain quickly.”
He leans in and whispered, “Indians destroyed some of the tracks. Lucky for us it was caught before the train struck, but it’ll take time to repair.”
Chase thinks quickly, “Fine. I will need a hotel, not a boarding house.” Bronnah watches from a few feet away and notices the stress and frowns at Chase when he returns to her and smiles.
“Change of plans,” he takes her arm and begins to guide her back outside to the front of the railway. They dodge people, horses, and carriages all without an explanation from him. Chase is aware of the heavy presence of soldiers as the nearest fort is only about few miles outside of town.
“Are ya planning on draggin me all over Nebraska, or are you gonna tell me what’s happened?” Bronnah snaps and Chase skids to a stop, looking down at her.
"I'm sorry, I don't like being in the open. I'll explain everything to you, once we're alone." He slows his stride, and she smiles at him.
“I have trouble keeping up with your long legs, Chase.”
"I'd carry you, but I'm sure that would draw attention as well." Bronnah laughs, and he stares down at her with a grin.
"You'd not hear me complain," Bronnah grumbles as Chase guides her into the lobby of the Hotel Davies. It's a six-floor, brick, building and near enough to the train station.
“I’ll hold you to that.” A few minutes later they’re guided into their hotel room by the concierge.
"Enjoy your stay. If you need anything, please pull the cord by your bed." He leaves quickly, and Bronnah turns to look at the room.
It is lovely with wooden floors, a massive four-poster bed, and fireplace. Chase chose the sixth-floor room, overlooking the back of the hotel with a private bathing room. Bronnah watches him light a fire and smiles as he turns to face her.
"We will have a couple day layover, it seems Indians have messed with some of the tracks. They are being repaired..." his voices fades as Bronnah unpins her hair and releases it to her shoulders giving a shake. His mouth goes dry, and he takes a step towards her, tossing his cowboy hat on a small table next to the chair. Next comes her overcoat, one button at a time.
"I see. I'm okay with that, Chase." He grins and unstraps his gun belt, placing it carefully on the chair. Bronnah pulls her blouse from the skirt and pulls the buttons open while he stalks her, backing her up to the bed.
“It’s been hours since I’ve tasted you, wife.” He growls, grabbing her by the waist he pulls her into his arms. She wraps her arms around his shoulders as he bends down to kiss her soft, full lips. Sucking and nibbling he drives her crazy with his mouth, before sweeping her up into his arms and laying her down on the bed.
“I’ve always wanted to honeymoon in Nebraska,” he said looking down at her.
“I’m glad to be able to witness your dreams coming true, husband,” she teases and pulls his head down to hers.
“Ah, Bronnah-mine, you’re a miracle to me, not a dream.” Slowly, he takes her mouth, stripping away her clothing and her resistance, building the intensity until she can’t breathe from her need.
“Chase please…,” she pants, “I need you!”
“Always,” he demands moving above her.
“Choiche Is go deo,” Forever and always, Chase!
He smiles down at his sleeping bride. While they are here, he means to spoil her rotten. After a visit to the bank he will take her to a dress shop, a general store, and dinner out. He's amazed that she hasn't complained once about her clothing or lack of. Wyoming requires proper attire, especially going into winter.
Bronnah wakes to find a note and smiles softly. After a quick wash, she dresses once more and moves to the small desk near the window. Inside she finds paper and sits down to write the first of two letters. One to her family in Ireland, letting them know she is married and one to her best friend. She will have Chase take her to the post office to mail them.
It seems like years have passed since she left her family, but in truth, it's only been a short time. How quickly life has changed for her. Sitting in the quiet she can't help but bow her head and send a prayer of thanks for the blessing
