Page 79 of Red Hawk's Woman

Even though Effie tried to hold him back, Red Hawk was already striding away from her.

“Red Hawk.” She came to her feet and rushed after him. “Don’t walk away from me. I need to sterilize that wound.”

“It will hold,” he said, not even looking at her.

“But what are you doing? Only moments ago, you were unconscious. I need to make sure you are fine.”

“I am fine.”

“But I need to make sure.”

“When I have finished with what I must do, you can then attend to me. In the meanwhile, I think I know who is following us, and if I am right—and I believe I am—it is only I who can handle him.”

“But—”

“You must become the leader of these wagons, Miss Effie.” He gazed at her with concern. “Please lead the wagons in a northerly direction until you find a good place to camp. Ensure it is near water. You are still in Crow country, and they are friendly. You will be fine.”

“But—”

“If I do not return in a few days’ time, keep heading straight north. Keep to the trails. You will soon find your way to the Gates of the Rocky Mountains.”

“But—”

“Do not try to stop me. If I am right, this is something only I can do.”

“Then you know who is doing this to us?”

“I think I do.”

“Well, who is it? And don’t you want to take Henry or Carl with you as protection?”

“I need no one else. Besides, you will require them more than I, in case I do not return.”

“Do not say that. And I’m certain we could do without them, at least for a little while.”

“They stay.”

“All right,” she said. “Then take me. I would help you, as you have helped me.”

“Saa. ’Tis one battle I must fight on my own.”

“Then before you go, I think you should be aware that I have decided something.”

“Ho!”

“I have decided I will marry you. We will need to find a preacher in order to make it legal under the eyes of God. We will have to find a place to live where people are not horribly prejudiced. But, Red Hawk, I’m in love with you. I cannot live without you.”

For one entire heartbeat, Red Hawk looked as though he had found heaven. But then, glancing away from her, he said, “I love you too. But I cannot stay here now. I must go.”

“Take me.”

“I cannot.”

“Why? Who is it that is doing this?”

“’Tis my own enemy,” he said solemnly. “’Tis the one I have waited all my life to battle.”

“Yes?”