At midday the scout rode back from up ahead to tell Steven there were Indians to the east. He immediately got off the horse and then mounted again, behind Emma. She looked back at him in question, and he kissed her lightly on the mouth. "If anybody takes an arrow in the back," he said, "it isn't going to be you." Emma was frightened, but she also felt protected and valued, and there was a certain contentment in that. If she could be close to Steven, she could face anything. Uneasily
At midday, a scout informed Steven of approaching Indians to the east. He quickly dismounted his horse, only to remount behind Emma. When she glanced back at him in concern, he reassured her with a gentle kiss and vowed to protect her. His declaration brought both fear and comfort to Emma, as she felt cherished and secure in his presence.
Despite the looming danger, Emma found solace in being close to...
