He already enjoys running. No need to frighten him.”

“You know your horses?”

“I’ve been around them my whole life.”

“Hmmm.” Archibald studied him for a long moment. “You’re an interesting fellow.”

“Not that interesting.”

“But practical. Maybe that’s why I like you. I’m practical, too. Which is why I can’t leave her out here, not after I’m gone.”

Thomas bit his tongue to keep from saying anything else.

“She’s young and wealthy. Very wealthy.”

“I intend to earn my money, not marry it.”

“There’s no reason you can’t do both.”

Thomas said nothing. There was no point in responding. He’d only be wasting his breath.

Archibald shifted, wincing as he adjusted his position. “I need a favor.”

“If it’s related to the ranch, yes. If it’s with regards to Miss Burnett, no.”

“I need to show her something, but I can’t drive her there myself. I can’t travel anymore, not even into town. I want you to take her for me.”

“I am sure there is someone better to accompany her.”

“No one I can trust.”

“You shouldn’t trust me.”

“You don’t want her—”

“Let’s be clear, Mr. Burnett. I want her, but I’m not going to make a play for her.”

“That alone makes you trustworthy.”

“Interesting logic.”

Archibald smiled grimly. “Marrying her, you’d become one of the wealthiest men in Crawford and Park counties. By refusing to marry her, I know you’re not driven by the dollar.”

“I keep repeating myself but, if I get rich, I want to make it on my own.”

“A principled man.”

“No sir. I just don’t like being beholden.”

“Even better. We’ll make it a business deal. Show her the house I’ve built for her on Bramble, this coming Sunday after church, and I’ll add a dozen head to your herd. Your choice, cattle or sheep.”

“That’s overly generous. I’m not comfortable with the arrangement.”

“And I’m not comfortable period. I’m dying. I want her settled by Easter—”

“That’s just two weeks away.”

“Exactly. I’ll be lucky to last that long.”

Ellie poured the tea for her father and Mr. Sheenan and then left the parlor, unable to remain when her stomach was filled with knots.

She’d heard what her father said to the Irishman. She’d heard him clearly. Papa wanted her settled by Easter, because he doubted he’d live much longer. Easter was April sixth. Just a little over two weeks away.

A little over two weeks before she lost the only person she’d ever loved.