Page 38 of Scarlett

Chapter Twelve

Emmett guidedthe horses at a quick trot toward Elias’ land and Scarlet leaned forward studying the landscape, eager to arrive. She’d not seen Esther since the festival and was excited to spend time with her.

It was already too cool for a ride. Soon the weather would change to frigid and they’d be homebound. Although Scarlett never cared for the cold, now she dreaded having to spend entire days in the house with no company.

Along with a tablecloth, she also brought sweet cakes from Gladys. “I can’t imagine how Esther can stand to be out here alone all the time,” Scarlett commented, not caring if Emmett replied or not.

Although things had changed between them in the last few days and he made an effort to be more attentive, he remained a quiet man.

“I believe Elias said she visits with a family not too far from where they lived.”

Scarlett studied her husband. Hat low on his face, it suited him. When he slid a glance toward her, she looked away.

“If you prefer we remain in town, we can always either build another larger home or add rooms to our current one.”

Caught off guard, Scarlett wasn’t sure what to think. That he took her into consideration for such a decision was...nice. “I do think I’d prefer to remain in town. I am already dreading winter and being snowbound. Aurora told me it could be for weeks on end.”

He only nodded and kept his attention ahead.

She considered this was a good time to ask him more questions since there was nowhere for either of them to go.

“I don’t understand why you agreed to marry me.”

Emmett pulled the horses to a stop and Scarlett wondered if perhaps it would be a smarter move to jump off and run than to remain.

As if guessing her apprehension, he took her hand. It was a gentle hold, but enough he could keep her from escaping.

“I know I’ve not made the best impression on you. Have to admit, I’ve asked myself the same thing. However, it’s not a decision I’ve regretted.”

“What am I supposed to garner from that response?” Scarlett lost her temper. “It’s as if you keep me at arms length on purpose. I feel like an elevated maid in your house. In my opinion we don’t suit in the least.” Too angry to measure her words, Scarlett snatched her hand away. “To be honest, I am not sure if anyone would suit you.”

Her eyes widened at her outburst, but he didn’t respond nor did his expression reveal what he thought. It was almost as if she’d commented on the weather for all the emotion he showed.

Instead he snapped the reins. “We’ll be there in a few minutes.”

* * *

“I am notsure I care for him in the least. And I do believe the feeling is mutual.” Scarlett sipped her tea as Esther stirred a pot at the stove. “He barely speaks to me and then when I have an outburst, like today, he doesn’t respond. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I would have preferred he’d be angry than act as if what I said didn’t matter.”

Esther settled in a chair opposite hers. “You’ll have to be patient with Emmett. I can tell you he is a good person. However, I do agree, it’s very hard to get to know him. He keeps everyone, except his brothers, at arms length.”

“What should I do?” A hot tear slid down Scarlett’s face. “I am not sure how we’ll survive winter. We had a good day. He gave me gifts and we went for a walk. I know he is making an effort, but some days it’s as if we moved backward instead of forward.”

“One day at a time,” Esther replied with a smile. “Elias and I didn’t get along at first either. It was a bit of a struggle. Think about it.” Esther looked out the window. “Two strangers who have little in common marrying. It’s an odd situation. ”

Scarlett stood, too annoyed to sit. “I agree and understand that of course. But when one partner puts in little to no effort, then it will not work.”

“Let’s do something fun,” Esther said. “Let’s have enjoy ourselves for a bit and not think about our husbands for a moment. Want to play dress up?”

“If you are up to something, I won’t be party to it,” Scarlett said with a huff. “Emmett is too smart. He’ll see right through it.”

“This has nothing to do with Emmett or Elias. It’s something I do to have a giggle.”

Esther tugged her arm. “Come to my shop. I have a great outfit in mind for you.”