Chapter 20

 

“So how was the lesson today?”

Addie gently put her fork back on the plate. Once her father started a conversation, she was supposed to be fully attentive. She could eat in peace once he had given her his lecture for the day.

He should already know the answer. He always sent word for Mark to see him, once the lessons were over. “It went well. Mr. Murphy – Mark –says that I am becoming a fine rider.” She should be. After several weeks of riding around on the horse for hours at a time, it was finally starting to feel normal to her. Mark was a good teacher. And becoming a good friend. A friend who made her hands sweat and her heart race out of control. But those were things she refused to think about. It would all stop, once she was good enough to ride without him. A time she longed for and dreaded at the same moment.

He nodded. “That’s what he tells me. I think another week or two and you won’t need him anymore. Then you can get on with meeting the upper society here in Chance.”

Addie reached for her glass of water and took a sip. “I didn’t know there was such a thing in this area.”

He laughed and cleared his throat. “There are quite a few single, wealthy ranchers in the area, people you should know. I’m thinking of have a small dinner and dance here at the house, once I’m able to be up and about. Would you like that?”

“A party? Oh, yes. That sounds like fun.” Everyday life was already turning into a drudgery for her. The few hours with Mark a few days a week were the highlights of her days. Meeting other people would certainly break the monotony.

“Fine,” he smiled. “You and Birdie can start planning it anytime you feel like it,” he said, glancing at the housekeeper, seated across from Addie.