A Place Called Home by Lori Wick Page B

in. Luke’s hand went to the neckline of his shirt when the second person went by and greeted him as Mark. Silas’ laughter didn’t help. The train had stopped and people were disembarking, so there was no more time to worry about clothing.
    Within minutes Frank Chambers was on the platform, his eyes skimming over the station. Luke stepped over to him, Silas at his heels.
    â€œLuke!” Frank Chambers’ hand was extended and his smile was friendly.
    â€œGood to see you, Frank. How was the trip?”
    â€œIt was fine, just fine.”
    â€œWhere is Mrs. Chambers?”
    â€œShe didn’t come. Our niece had her baby, so Lily stayed home to play mother hen.” Frank looked his disappointment.
    Luke was about to introduce Silas when Caroline stepped from behind her father. “Hello, Luke,” she said softly. The look in her eyes was nothing short of worshipful.
    Feeling a bit flustered, Luke made the introductions. Caroline barely took time to nod in Silas’ direction before her eyes once again clung to Luke. Frank didn’t seem to notice. Silas left immediately after that to check on the horses. Frank went with him, leaving Luke and Caroline alone.
    â€œI’ve missed you, Luke.” Caroline’s voice was soft and a bit anxious, nervous eyes shining up at him.
    Luke only smiled faintly and asked about the luggage. He then bent to lift the large trunk and missed Caroline’s face, her disappointment clearly revealed.
    Luke hauled the trunk into the wagon before leaving Caroline to assist the men.
    Frank had a mare’s lead in each hand. Silas was holding the stallion when Luke approached. “You certainly didn’t exaggerate, Luke. He’s a beauty.” Silas’ voice more than words spoke his admiration.
    Luke smiled and patted the firm neck, speaking softly to the magnificent animal. Titan was black, completely black, from the tip of his proud nose to the end of his long tail. His eyes showed intelligence and spirit. A sound from the mares caught his attention. He answered with a loud snort, sidestepped, and tossed his finely shaped head.
    â€œLet’s get this guy home. We’ll drop the Chamberses at the hotel and head out.”
    Some hours later the three horses were settled in their new home, fed and comfortable. As the men headed back to the house, Silas spoke. “I take it you are not headed back into town tonight?”
    â€œHow did you know that?”
    â€œMiss Chambers didn’t look too happy with you when we left.”
    â€œNo, she didn’t, did she?” Luke replied with a frown. “It was Frank’s idea. He said he was beat and that they would see us in the morning. I forgot to tell Grandma Em that there would be two more for dinner tomorrow.”
    â€œIt won’t matter. I’ll tell her in the morning.”
    â€œ
You
will? Where will I be?”
    â€œI figured you would go and have breakfast at the hotel with the Chamberses. I can get Gram’s chores.”
    â€œOh. Well, thanks for the offer, Si; I’ll think on it.”
    The men had reached the back porch. It was getting cooler, the days shorter. The sun was sinking low.
    â€œWhat did you think of her?”
    â€œI didn’t really get a chance to talk with her.” Silas’ answer was accompanied by a small shrug. But the look Luke shot him clearly stated that he believed Silas had sidestepped the question.
    With a heavy sigh Silas answered, “She seems young.”
    Luke’s face was pensive. “I think so too.”
    The men fell silent for a time. As the sun dipped behind the trees and hills it cast an orange glow on the Cameron ranch.
    Silas stood and stretched. “I’m headed in, but I want to tell you something—something I believe with all my heart. God won’t hide His answers from you. If Caroline is the woman God has for you, you’ll know. If you continue to trust, He’ll continue to