Adele (Angel Creek Christmas Brides #18) - Cynthia Woolf Page 0,26

If she’s in great pain, you can dose her every three hours. The first dose needs to be a full teaspoon. Do you need a bottle of laudanum?”

Edward nodded. “I guess so. I’m not aware of having any but Ruama would know better than me.”

The doctor walked to the same cabinet and brought back a small clear bottle with a yellow liquid in it. “You better take this just in case. Remember no more than every three hours. The medicine is addictive so be careful with it.”

“I will, Doc. What do I owe you?”

“Three dollars will cover it including the laudanum.”

Edward dug in his pocket and came up with a five-dollar bill. “Here you go. Keep the rest on account for when we return to have the stitches out.”

“No need. The removal is already included.” He gave Edward back two dollars.”

“Thanks, Doc. I’ll go see Quinn now.”

Edward took the buggy and galloped to the sheriff’s office. Quinn Cassidy was removing his coat when Edward entered.

“Edward. This is a surprise and from the look on your face, not a pleasant one. Have a seat.” He gestured toward the wooden, slat-backed chair in front of the desk. “Now, what’s happened?”

“A man by the name of Richard Cavanaugh just shot Adele. He’s her former, uh, employer and wants her back. It’s a long, sordid story that I don’t have time to tell you. Adele is at the doctors and I need to get her back home.”

“All right. Where will I find this man?”

“I don’t know for sure. He probably was staying at the boarding house. But now I don’t know where he’ll be because I doubt very seriously he’ll go back there after shooting Adele.”

“I’ll check and see. Thanks for letting me know. I’m sorry about Adele. I’ll need a statement from her when she awakens.”

“Why don’t you come out to the ranch in a couple of days? Come for dinner or lunch. Ruama is a great cook. If Adele was better we’d have dessert, too. She’s a fantastic baker.”

“Thanks. I won’t come for a meal, probably mid-morning in two days.”

“That’s fine. See you then.” He stood and extended his hand.

The sheriff shook his hand.

“I have to get back but I’ll expect you in two days.”

Edward hurried back to the doctor’s house as fast at the buggy would go. When he arrived he set the brake and ran inside.

The doctor greeted him. “She’s awake but won’t be for long when the laudanum takes effect.”

Edward removed his hat and ran a hand through his hair. “Thanks, Doc. The trip home would be more comfortable if she was still unconscious.”

The doctor led Edward back to the kitchen.

Melody sat next to Adele, who still lay on the table, but with a couple of pillows under her head.

“Edward,” she lifted her hand toward him.

Melody stood.

Edward took her place. “I’m here.”

“Richard?”

“He got away, but I’ve let Quinn know and he’ll be looking for him. Now, let’s get you home and into bed. You need rest.”

Doctor Walker handed Edward a half-full glass of water. “I’ve put her first dose of laudanum in the water.”

Edward took the glass. “Here, you are. Let me help you sit up.” He leaned her up until she was sitting.

Adele drank the water and made a face at its bitter taste. “Couldn’t they flavor that with chocolate or something? It’s disgusting.”

Edward smiled. “Yes, but it will help with your pain and you’ll be very glad of that. Are you ready to go home?”

She nodded. “Oh, yes…more than ready.” She tried to swing her legs over the table.

“Hey, I’ll carry you. Save your strength for the ride home. Let me wrap you up in the blankets again. You’ll be happy of their warmth.”

“All right.” She looked over at the doctor. “Thanks, Nick.” And then to Melody. “Sorry for ruining your table.”

The woman took her hand. “That’s not a problem. You’re not the first person he’s treated here nor will you be the last.”

Once she was wrapped snuggly into the blankets, Edward picked her up and carried her to the buggy. He set her gently on the seat and then went around the back and stepped into the buggy on his side. “Would you be more comfortable leaning on me or lying in my lap?”

“I would like to lie down. I just don’t feel like I have the strength to hang on.”

“That’s okay. Lean over here and rest your head in my lap. I’ll be sure not to let you fall.”

“What if Richard—”

“Don’t think about him. He