Chapter 6

Dallas

Dallas looked in the mirror and finished tying his tie. He and Megan had spent the last several weeks preparing for this party. Dallas had taken care of preparing the house, and Megan had made the arrangements for the food with Jacques. He chuckled to himself, remembering how she and Jacques had argued about the meal preparations. She had insisted on helping and he kept insisting that she stay out of the kitchen. Finally, she had relented, but she oversaw the menu, and nothing was to be prepared without her approval, much to Jacques's chagrin. When Jacques had come to him complaining, Dallas had simply told him that she was the lady of the house now, and as such, her word was law. Jacques had stormed off, but didn't give Megan any more trouble.

In the living room, the furniture had been removed for dancing, and the wooden floor shone to perfection. He had also purchased long lengths of white fabric from Kenzie Baker and had it draped artfully from the balcony to the floor. The balcony stretched around three sides of the second floor, stopping at the front wall of the house. Several lengths of fabric were spaced apart on both sides, leaving the space to the left of the staircase for the string quartet that Dallas had brought in from Laramie. Fabric also adorned the grand staircase attached to the back balcony, draped artfully and tied off with white ribbon. This was the first big party that he had ever hosted, and he wanted it to be spectacular. It had been a while since he had been to a big party himself, let alone host one.

To his knowledge, this would be the first party of this magnitude hosted by anyone in Whiskey River and he wanted to make a good impression. Yes, barn dances were held, and dances in the church recreation hall were held every week, but this would be the first big party that anyone had held outside of the church. Dallas had even invited Charles Whitfield, his best friend from college and business associate, and Charles had sent word that he was coming. Although he was no longer the owner of the bank, Dallas knew that Charles would want to check on the business while he was there. But Dallas didn't mind. He liked doing business with Charles.

Dallas wanted to make a good impression to show Charles that he was doing well, although not as well as Charles and his family. Wealth of that stature only came from the accumulation of generations.

After they had graduated from college, Charles had helped him to start his bank in Whiskey River, and Dallas had paid him back in full… in record time. Charles had heard of entrepreneurs with good business ideas and helped to fund their businesses to get them started if he liked the business venture. Since he and Charles were friends, it was natural that Charles had given Dallas his start in Whiskey River. Dallas owed everything to Charles. Not only was he his best friend, he had also been his financier. Dallas had learned a lot about business from him, and he was more than willing to share his expertise. Tonight, he wanted to prove not only to Charles, but to himself that he was worthy.

Dallas slipped into his suit coat, vowing to save his top coat for the party. Looking in the mirror, he adjusted his dress shirt and smoothed back his blond hair. It had just turned November and was getting quite cold out now. Dallas knew that winter would soon be upon them. He just hoped that the weather wasn't as bad this winter as the last. A blizzard had blown through, incapacitating every aspect of the town. The only thing that managed to be open each week was the church, thanks to Reverend Henley.

This year, Dallas was looking forward to spending the holidays with his new bride. He hoped that Charles could stay through Christmas and the New Year, as well, but Dallas knew that Charles liked to spend the holidays in New York with his family. Although Charles never told him, Dallas suspected that his father required that he be with the family for the holidays.

Dallas slipped on his hat and headed down the stairs.

"Ye look wonderful today, sir," Mrs. Daly remarked when he reached the first floor. "What are ye doing up and about so early this morn'? I thought ye were taking off today."

"Mr. Whitfield's train is on its way, and I want to be there when it arrives." Dallas took out his pocket watch and looked at the time. It was seven o'clock in the morning, and Charles's train was due to arrive at ten o'clock. But it was at least two hours to Laramie and Charles didn't want to be late.

Every time that Charles came into town, Dallas had insisted that he stay with him at his ranch. After all, Dallas would be much more comfortable staying with him than at the hotel. In fact, Dallas kept a room at his ranch just for Charles. Although Dallas knew that he wouldn't mind staying at the hotel, Dallas wouldn't have it any other way. It was also an opportunity for them to catch up.

On this visit, Charles was supposed to arrive earlier from Chicago for the wedding, but a fire had broken out in early October, and he had postponed his visit until now. Charles had been in Chicago visiting friends before coming to Whiskey River. Dallas had wired him back, asking Charles if he needed help, but he had told him not to come, and that the fire had devastated the city, and he wanted to stay there to help. After reading about the fire in his issue of The New York Times and seeing the devastation, Dallas regretted not having gone to help Charles.

"Oh! Mrs. Daly." Dallas had stopped halfway out the front door. "Please tell my wife that I will be back shortly to help with finalizing everything for the party."

A broad smile spread across her face. "Now, don' ye be worrying about the little missus, sir. I'll be here to help her when she wakes."

Dallas smiled. "Thank you, Mrs. Daly." Then he lowered his voice conspiratorially. "But be sure to let Mrs. King have the last say."

Mrs. Daly narrowed her eyes, and then chuckled. "Yes, sir. Ye're the boss."

"Thank you, Mrs. Daly." After the older woman had barged in on Megan the morning after their wedding, Dallas had a talk with Mrs. Daly, informing her that his wife was now the woman of the house, and that she needed to respect her as such. It had taken some doing, but Mrs. Daly and Megan had come to a mutual understanding.

As Dallas stepped outside into the brisk morning air, he inhaled deeply, letting the cool air fill his lungs. Excitement was in the air. Not only would he have the opportunity to show off his wife to the town, it was also an opportunity for Dallas to show Charles that he had "arrived". But more than anything, Dallas was excited at the possibility of seeing his best friend and having the opportunity to catch up. Charles hadn't visited since the summer and was long overdue for a visit.

"Good morning, sir." Bill smiled, opening the carriage door. "So, we journey to Laramie this morning?"

"Yes, Bill. To the train station, if you please."

His driver closed the door. "Yes, sir."

Dallas adjusted his suit coat, preparing for the long carriage ride to Laramie, and soon they were on their way.

He looked out the window and the sunrise was lovely, sending shoots of pink and orange across the morning sky. But as they rode, Dallas's thoughts went to Megan.

She was truly a remarkable woman. To begin with, she was beautiful. But dressed in Kenzie Baker's fashions, she seemed to blossom and had bloomed into a stunning, gorgeous woman. Kenzie had not yet finished her wardrobe, but had sent over pieces as they were finished, along with the items she had ordered.

But Megan's beauty aside, it was her heart—who she was on the inside—that intrigued him the most. Despite him lavishing expensive gifts on her, she seemed just as happy going for a walk or a carriage ride. Perhaps he might find some earrings or jewelry for Megan in Laramie if he arrived early enough.

Dallas just wished he could give her more.

He let out a deep breath. In the short time that he had been married to Megan—nearly a month—he had found that she was stealing his heart. But could he let himself love her? Could she ever love him in return? It had been an advantageous marriage for them both and he hadn't considered love, but he found that he could hardly wait to spend time with her, or to have dinner with her, or to walk with her. But could he ever let her love him and give her love in return? Was he deserving? After all, his father had seen fit to beat him for little things, often for nothing at all. Hadn't he deserved it? And every time he had misbehaved as a child, his mother had seen fit to tell anyone who would listen. Between his father and his mother, that was why he had strived for perfection his whole life: So as not to attract their negative attention. As a result, he found that every time anyone got close, he pulled back. That was one of the reasons why he had sent for a mail-order bride. Love wouldn't be an issue. But now, he wondered if he could accept the love of this woman and give it to her in return, or if he should just care for her, protect her, but not love her. After all, love was a dangerous endeavor.

As he thought of Megan and contemplated love and life, Bill soon stopped the carriage in front of the train station. Dallas glanced at his watch and, somehow, time had slipped away. It was nine o'clock. He looked out the window of the carriage and the train hadn't arrived yet.

Yes, he had time. "Bill, let's go to the jewelry store. I'd like to get something special for Mrs. King to wear tonight."

Dallas felt the carriage shake and creak as Bill climbed back up onto the top.

"Yes, sir." Evidently, Bill had been getting down when Dallas had stopped him. Dallas almost felt bad for him, but not quite. After all, he was well paid to be his driver for all hours of the day and night.

The horses plodded slowly through town, the rhythmic sound of the hooves clicking along. Dallas's heart fluttered as excitement filled his body. Although Laramie was not nearly as exciting as New York or Chicago, being in the city caused the same excitement to course through his veins.

Dallas had thought of moving his banking business to Laramie—a much bigger city, although still small—but if he pulled the bank out, Whiskey River would surely die. Dallas couldn't be responsible for that. Despite having become a pillar of the small community in what little time he had been there, he had come to care about the people in the small town, as well. Dallas was aware that the bank was the only thing holding the town together. And if the bank went, so would the town. And if the town went, what would the people do? No, moving away from Whiskey River wasn't an option.

Besides, he had everything he wanted in the town: money, respect. And now that he had married, his status in the town would now be solidified.

But he hadn't expected Megan. She was beautiful, funny, and he enjoyed seeing life through her eyes. Although she had come a long way in the short time that she had been there, it would take a while before she felt completely comfortable in her role as a banker's wife. But he vowed to make it as easy for her as possible.

Within minutes, Bill pulled the carriage to a stop in front of the jewelry store. Dallas hopped down, not waiting for his driver this time. "I'll only be a minute," he yelled over his shoulder to Bill, holding up his hand up, indicating for him not to hop down.

Bill inclined his head as a sly smile spread across his lips. "Whatever you say, boss," he replied, obviously amused with Dallas's infatuation with his new wife.

Dallas smirked as he skipped up the steps of the store, taking two at a time. Inside, he adjusted his suit coat and strolled casually up to the counter.

"Mr. King! What brings you in here today?" The man behind the counter placed his hands on the edge of the glass case before him. It was fitting that the salesman recognized him: Dallas had become one of their best customers since he married Megan.

A smile spread across Dallas's lips. "Well, I happened to be in town, and I thought I'd pick up something special for my new wife. We're having a party tonight."

The clerk's smile broadened. "But of course, sir! What may I interest you in? A broach, perhaps? A necklace? A new ring?"

"No, not a ring." Dallas had just purchased a wedding band set with a diamond engagement ring that would make any woman swoon. Megan had taken one look at it and gasped, telling him that it was too big. Dallas smiled at the memory. "This time, I'd like to see your earrings and perhaps a necklace."

"Of course. Right this way, sir." Dallas followed the man to another glass case that held the most expensive jewels. Sunlight glistened from the precious gems: sapphires, topaz, amethyst, rubies… and of course, diamonds. Dallas had been curious as to how the shop owner could afford to have such jewels on display in Laramie. But then again, the best that they had was only in one case and could easily be moved to a safe in the back at night.

Dallas picked out a beautiful diamond and pearl necklace, and matching earrings. His heart leaped. This was it. "Are the earrings screw backs?"

The man nodded proudly, but then his smile faded. "Are your wife's ears pierced? If they are, we have a nice selection—"

"No, that's quite all right. Her ears aren't pierced." He looked down at the case once more. "These are perfect." Then he looked back over at the clerk, smiling. "Could you place them in a gift box for me? I'd like to surprise my wife."

"Yes, sir," the clerk gushed. "Right away. I'll be right back."

Dallas smiled his thanks, and then glanced down at his pocket watch. Nine-thirty. He still had time… unless the train arrived early. But by the time he had put away his pocket watch, the clerk was back.

"Shall I put this on your tab, sir?" The clerk smiled, carefully placing a white box wrapped in a soft white ribbon on the counter.

Dallas smiled. "No, thank you." Dallas pulled some bills out of his wallet and laid them on the counter. "I'm in a hurry to pick up my friend from the train station. Apply the rest of it to my tab and I'll be in soon to settle up."

The clerk's eyes nearly bulged out of his head as he scooped up the money. "Yes, of course, sir." The clerk quickly stashed the money in the cash register and presented him with a paper to sign.

After Dallas signed the paper, he slipped the long, slender box into the inside pocket of his suit, and hurried out the door with a last wave over his shoulder.

"To the train station, Bill," Dallas called up to his driver as he climbed into the carriage.

"Yes, sir." A moment later the carriage jerked forward.

Dallas watched the people pass by outside the carriage window. Although Laramie was growing, it was still wild in nature. Within minutes, the carriage pulled to a stop in front of the train station. Dallas flung open the door and climbed out. Bill had pulled the brake on the carriage and was ready to tie off the reins when Dallas waved him off. "Wait here. I'll be right back."

Bill nodded, adjusting the rifle in a holster mounted on the side of the seat. Then he relaxed, watching as Dallas hurried away.

Dallas came to a stop on the train platform and waited. He looked at his pocket watch one more time. Nine forty-five. Good. He had made it on time, not wanting Charles to have to wait. Excitement welled up in his heart as he waited, remembering when Megan had first arrived, although it hadn't nearly been the same then.

The day Megan arrived, he had been as nervous as a schoolboy on his first day of school, waiting for her. But when she had stepped off the train, his heart leaped. No other woman had ever had that kind of effect on him before, especially not when he first met her. And then when their eyes locked and held, his heart nearly stopped. At that moment, he knew that she was the one, although her photograph didn't do her justice. When he approached, the image of her was ingrained upon his heart.

The train whistle made a shrill sound bringing him back to reality as white steam rolled forward just seconds before he saw the train. Then the whole wooden platform rattled as the power of the massive locomotive pulled to a stop a few feet away, a final blast of steam rolling out from under the train.

Dallas smiled, knowing he would soon see his friend. He just hoped Charles wasn't too tired from his journey and vowed to give him time to rest before the party.

The door opened on the train and the conductor helped the people disembark, holding the hands of the ladies and tipping his hat to the gentlemen. A moment later, Charles Whitfield stepped off the train and onto the platform.

Dallas chuckled as he hurried over to his friend and offered him his hand. "It's a pleasure to see you again, old friend!"

Charles chuckled, clasping his hand as he gave him a manly pat on the back. "It's good to see you, too." He let out a deep breath and pulled back, adjusting his hold on his carpet bag.

"Here, let me get that for you." Dallas reached for it, but Charles pulled it away. "No, I'll need you to help me with my trunk."

Dallas laughed, giving him a manly slap on the shoulder as they headed over to retrieve his luggage. "So, did you bring everything but the kitchen sink?"

"Nearly." Charles grinned, nodding toward a black leather trunk. "I'm thinking of staying longer than usual this time."

Dallas's head snapped up. "Really? How long?"

Charles shrugged. "For as long as you'll have me."

"Good! Well then, you'll be staying for a very long time." Dallas picked up one end of the trunk and Charles lifted the other.

"I was hoping you'd say that." They walked out of the train station with the trunk and headed straight over to Dallas's carriage. Bill saw them approaching and opened the back of the carriage for them to slide in the trunk. "I don't have to be back to New York before Christmas. So, I thought that I'd stay until I have to go, if that's okay with you."

"You can stay as long as you like. You're always welcome." Dallas gave his friend's arm a manly squeeze as he nodded toward the carriage doors. "Let's go. We can talk on the way."

Bill was going to hold the door for Charles, but he waved him off. "I've got it, thank you."

"As you wish." Bill climbed back up on the top of the carriage.

Dallas slid in on the other side, narrowing his eyes as he watched his friend.

"I'm sorry I didn't make it in time for your wedding." Charles took off his hat and ran his fingers through his dark brown hair. Then he laid it on the seat beside him, a crease forming between his eyes. "How was it?"

"It was wonderful." But Dallas didn't smile, knowing the Chicago Fire, as the newspapers now called it, was weighing heavily on his friend. Dallas's heart went out to him. "Charles, how was it in Chicago?"

Charles looked up at him but said nothing. He didn't have to. His eyes said it all.

Dallas lowered his voice. "Charles, you know you can talk to me."

He nodded, his eyes filling with tears, threatening to spill over. Never had Dallas ever seen his friend like this before. "Dallas, I just can't explain it. The blaze… the fire spreading, scorching hot, blazing against the darkness of the night… and the screaming." He let out a deep breath, shaking his head. "I tried to save them… I really tried… but I couldn't save them all."

Dallas's eyebrows pulled together in concern. "I'm sure you saved many. You did the best you could."

Charles gave him a weak smile. "I tried." He let out another breath. "The days that followed after the fire were just as bad."

Dallas nodded. He could only imagine the atrocities his friend had witnessed, what he had endured. "Charles, I wish I had been there with you."

Charles's head snapped up. "No, Dallas, you don't. I wouldn't have wished that on anyone." Then he let out another breath and smiled. "So, tell me of this new wife of yours."

Dallas smiled, knowing that Charles was coming here to get away, to forget. And out of all the places he could have gone, he came to Whiskey River. He spent the rest of the ride telling Charles of Megan, how smart she was, and how funny, too.

"She sounds extraordinary." Charles smiled, more like himself. "I can't wait to meet her."

"And meet her you shall." Dallas looked up as they pulled down the long drive of his ranch. "We're here."

Charles's lips curled into a smile. "It's good to be back."

Dallas wondered how a man who was used to money, used to being in the city, in the center of business, could be so glad to be back here in this country town. But then again, hadn't he himself been thinking of how lucky he was to live in such a place?

Both gentlemen stepped down out of the carriage when it came to a stop.

"Will you be needing anything else, Mr. King?" Bill asked from the top of the carriage.

Dallas shook his head. "No, thank you. Take the rest of the day off."

Bill took up the reins. "Very well, then. Call me if you need me."

"No need." Dallas reached over and patted one of the horses. "If I need to go somewhere, I'll get one of the other men to drive me. And don't worry about the luggage. I'll get the men to bring it in."

Bill nodded as a smile lit his lips. "As you wish." Then he pulled the carriage away and turned it toward the barn.

Dallas headed toward the house where Charles was waiting. "You could have gone inside. I want you to think of it as your home, too."

Charles shook his head. "No, I didn't want to scare your new wife to death if a strange man walked into her house."

Dallas laughed as they approached the door. "Knowing Megan, she'd greet you at the door with the back side of a frying pan."

"Well then…." Charles laughed. "I'm glad I waited."

Dallas chuckled as he opened the door. "Shall we, then?"

"After you." Charles gestured.

When Dallas opened the door, Megan was standing in the living room with her hands folded, wearing a light blue dress. He loved that color on her. Her light auburn hair was pulled up with curls in the crown.

"Welcome home." Megan walked over to him with her arms outstretched.

He met her halfway, clasped her hands, and gently kissed her cheek. "Megan, this is Mr. Charles Whitfield…." Then he turned to Charles. "And this is my wife, Megan King."

Megan held out her hand to Charles. "‘Tis a pleasure to meet ye."

"The pleasure is mine, dear lady." Charles smiled in delight as he raised her hand to his lips and then released it. "Dallas, you didn't tell me your wife was so lovely."

Dallas laughed. "Because I didn't want you to steal her away from me."

"You may have to watch me. I may do just that," Charles teased.

"Ye're too kind." Megan blushed. "Mr. Whitfield, ye must be tired after yer long journey and in need of rest… hungry, too. Would ye like to eat some lunch and then take a nap before tonight, or would ye like to rest first? I can have Mrs. Daly bring a tray to yer room."

"You know, I think maybe some lunch would be nice. I haven't eaten anything since breakfast." Charles offered her his arm. "May I have the honor?"

Megan smiled as she took his arm and then Dallas took her other arm. "My, my! Being escorted by two handsome gents! What's a girl to do?"

Dallas smiled, knowing that she was just teasing, but it still rubbed him the wrong way. Was it jealousy that he felt? But he laughed it off. "Just remember who your husband is."

The three of them laughed.

"How am I to forget?" Megan teased. "Ye remind me of it all the time."

Charles laughed, but Dallas felt a bit foolish in front of his friend. Anger welled up inside of him. He was going to have to tell Megan privately not to make a fool of him in front of his friend, teasing or not.

She must have sensed his change in attitude, for she leaned over and kissed his cheek and whispered, "I was only jokin', love."

Dallas smiled and held the chair for her as she sat. "We'll talk later."

Then he sat down kitty corner from her at the head of the table and Charles sat across from Megan on the other side.

"Yer just in time!" Mrs. Daly announced as she walked through the door from the kitchen carrying a tray of fresh, hot bread, and sandwiches, small plates, silverware, and lemonade. "I do hope yer hungry."

"Yes, ma'am." Charles shook out his napkin and laid it across his lap. "I certainly am. This looks wonderful! Did you make it?"

Mrs. Daly laughed. "Oh, heavens no! Jacques would kill me if I make meself too at home in his kitchen!"

Megan chuckled. "She's not kiddin'. I made that mistake when I first came here. Now, I sneak in when he's not lookin'."

Everyone laughed.

Mrs. Daly set the tray on the table, and then set a plate before them filled with sandwiches. "Well, have fun! Let me know if ye be requirin' anything more." She gave one last wave and waddled out through the door and into the kitchen.

"Well, I don't think these sandwiches will eat themselves!" Dallas smiled, but Megan folded her hands at the edge of the table.

"Shall we say grace first, dear?" Megan waited politely.

"Yes, yes of course." Dallas folded his hands and then said the blessing over the meal. Truth be told, it had been the first time he'd prayed in a while. When the prayer came to an end, he announced, "Let's eat!"

Megan and Charles laughed.

Charles took a bite of his sandwich, moaning in delight. "Dallas, I think your wife is good for you in more ways than you think."

Dallas smiled, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "Yes, I think you're right."

They talked and laughed through lunch and before long, it was time to prepare for their guests.

Megan dabbed daintily at her lips. "Well, if ye gentlemen don't mind, I need to get ready for the party tonight."

Both Dallas and Charles stood.

"I'll walk you up." Dallas held her chair for her as she stood.

"It was nice meeting you," Charles added, and then nodded toward Dallas as he spoke to Megan. "Good luck keeping this one in line."

Dallas didn't care much for being the butt of their jokes, although he realized it was in good fun. "This is the one you have to look out for." Dallas pointed a finger at Charles, smiling.

Charles chuckled. "But seriously, any friend of Dallas's is a friend of mine."

"Why, thank ye, Mr. Whitfield."

"Please, call me Charles."

"We'll see you in a little while." Dallas offered her his arm. "Shall we?"

Megan nodded and he led her up the stairs.

In their bedroom, Dallas pulled her into his arms and closed the door. Then his lips descended upon hers as his breath quickened and his heart raced.

"Slow down there, honey." Megan pulled back, bringing everything to a stop and lowered her voice to a whisper. "I have to get ready, love. Our guests will arrive soon. And ye have to get ready, too."

Dallas kissed down her jaw to her neck and inhaled. "Meggie, can I ask you something?" He planted a kiss on her shoulder this time.

"What?" she asked dreamily.

He smiled to himself at the effect he was having on her. "Do you like Charles?"

"What?" Megan pulled back abruptly, her eyes wide. "What in the world—"

"I just watched you two talking and—"

"And you thought I was attracted to him."

"Megan, keep down your voice. He'll hear—"

"Well, let him hear!" Megan yelled even louder. She backed away and then narrowed her eyes. "For yer information, I was just being cordial and friendly and so was he." She scoffed. "I would think that ye would like that we got along so well! After all, he is yer best friend, isn't he?"

In the last month, they had gotten to know each other and he had told her what Charles had done for him. "Okay, you've made your point. Let's get ready. Our guests will be here shortly."

"You expect me to go after this?"

Dallas crossed the room and looked down at her. "You are my wife, and you will attend this party."

"No." Megan folded her arms across her chest.

Rage instantly boiled up inside him as he gritted his teeth and clenched his fists. Then, he lowered his voice in an effort to control himself. "I am going to leave this room. While I am out, I want you to get ready… please."

Megan let out a deep breath and then nodded, relenting. "Okay. The only thing you had to do was ask." Then she narrowed her eyes. "But don't ever accuse me of that ever again. I'm friendly. That's who I am, and I won't change. So, yer just going to have to accept it."

Dallas slid his hand behind her head and pressed his lips to hers. When he pulled back, he replied, "Just remember who your husband is."

She pushed him away and stumbled back, her eyes wide. "I know full well who me husband is. I'm not a flirt… or worse."

He pulled his clothes out of the closet and walked into another room, needing a moment. Once he was dressed, he looked in the mirror and tied his ascot tie. Then he took the hairbrush resting on the counter and brushed his blond hair into place.

Before he finished, the anger had dissipated, realizing the error of his ways. How could he have been so stupid? Deep down, he knew that Megan and Charles were just being friendly. Actually, he was glad they got along. And Dallas knew that Charles would never do anything to hurt him. He let out a deep breath and looked in the mirror one last time. Then he walked out the door and down the stairs.

When he reached the first floor, Dallas walked through the spacious living room. The furniture had been moved and the wooden floor was polished, creating the perfect dancefloor. But Dallas paid no attention. He walked straight into the parlor and to the bar and poured himself a drink. Then he downed it quickly. Soon, the dark liquid did the trick and helped him to relax. Holding onto the bar, he thought of Megan. How could he have been so stupid? Charles wouldn't do anything to hurt him and, deep down, he knew that Megan wouldn't hurt him like that, either.

"Ready for this shindig?" Charles asked as he walked in.

Dallas nodded, but didn't look at him.

"Care to talk about it?"

Dallas shook his head.

"Dallas, can we talk?"

When Dallas turned around, Charles was dressed in a top coat but wasn't wearing his top hat. "Yes, of course."

Charles slipped a hand into his pocket. "Dallas, just relax and be yourself."

"What do you mean?" Dallas narrowed his eyes at his friend.

"No, hear me out." Charles took a step closer, lowering his voice. "Dallas, it seems that you're trying too hard. Just… be yourself." He placed his hands on his shoulders and looked into his eyes. "Enjoy yourself tonight."

Dallas smiled. He was the only one on the planet who could talk to him like this. Dallas would have dismissed anyone else who tried. But he and Charles had been friends far too long, and Dallas owed him too much. Dallas thought of him as a brother, not just his business associate. At that moment, he realized how much he had missed his friend.

"Thanks, Charles." Dallas poured him a drink and handed it to him. "Maybe you're right. Maybe I just need to relax and enjoy myself tonight." But it'd been too long, and he almost forgot how.

"You know I'm right." Charles took a sip of his drink.

"You need to visit more often." Dallas smiled. "Maybe even move here. I've missed you."

"I've missed you, too." Charles smirked. "And believe it or not, I've thought of it."

Dallas's eyes opened wide. "What? Of moving here?"

Charles nodded. "I love the town, and the people treat me like a ‘normal' person. You just don't know how lucky you are."

"Maybe you're right."

"You know I am." Charles eyebrows pulled together in concern. "After what I witnessed in Chicago, it's made me realize how precious life is… and how much I'm missing in life."

Dallas's eyes widened. "Charles, you have everything a man could want: Money, friends, fine things, a wealthy family, prestige… everything." Charles had all the things that Dallas had ever wanted, and to find out that he was unhappy with his life was absurd.

Charles smiled. "No, not everything. I don't have a wife and love… someone to love and to care about… someone to love me for who I am."

Dallas clasped his shoulder. "You'll always have me. You're the best friend I've ever had. You're like a brother to me."

Charles pulled him in for a manly hug. "And you're like a brother to me, too."

When Dallas pulled away, he said, "Charles, I want you to enjoy yourself, too. You've been through so much. Tonight, you just need to relax."

"Thanks, Dallas." Charles smiled. "I will."

When Dallas pulled back, he remembered something. "If you'll excuse me, I need to check on Megan. I'll be right back."

Dallas hurried up the stairs, taking two at a time. He knew he owed Megan an apology, too. How could he have been so stupid as to think that she was flirting with Charles? Neither she nor Charles would hurt him like that. He squared his shoulders and knocked on their bedroom door.

"Come in," Megan's voice resounded from the other side of the door. When he opened the door, Megan stood there, and his breath caught.

She wore a white ballgown that was off the shoulder, fitted at the waist, and bustled in the back in the latest fashion. But it sparkled silver when she moved, shimmering in the lamplight. Her light auburn hair was pulled up and rolled with a silver ribbon that set off the dress. Tendrils lay against her neck. She would be overdressed compared to the other ladies that would attend the party, but Dallas didn't care. She looked gorgeous. Megan smiled, enjoying his reaction.

Without taking his eyes from hers, he closed the distance between them in a few short steps. Then he took her hand into his and lifted it to his lips. "You look lovely, my dear." Then his eyes narrowed as he looked her over.

"Is something wrong?" she asked as she looked down at her dress.

He nodded. "Yes, there is. Something's missing."

"What could possibly be missing?" Megan asked as she looked over her dress and then raised her hands to her hair.

"This." Dallas pulled a slender box from inside his suitcoat.

Her breath caught. "Oh, Dallas! Ye didn't have to do that!"

Then Dallas stepped before her and opened it. Inside lay a silver locket with diamonds encrusted along the edge and a pearl in the center. With it were matching diamond studded earrings with a small pearl on a silver loop.

"It's beautiful," Megan gasped. "But this is too much. I cannot accept—"

A crease formed between his eyes. "Do you not like it?"

She smiled as her eyes widened. "No, I love it. It's just that ye don't need to lavish me with such expensive gifts."

He smiled as he placed his hand on her cheek, causing her to blush. "But I want to. Will you not accept this small token of my love?"

"Yes, of course. Thank ye. It's too much, but I love it."

The necklace sparkled in the candlelight when Dallas lifted it from the case. "May I?"

She nodded as tears filled her eyes. "Yes, of course."

He walked behind her, slid the necklace around her neck, and hooked the clasp. It fell perfectly onto her chest, bringing out her beauty.

She crossed the room to the mirror hanging on the wall and fastened an earring into place.

Dallas smiled, pleased that she had accepted his gift. "I'm glad you like it. I picked them out this afternoon."

"You did?" she asked as she finished fastening the other earring. "You have great taste." When she turned around, the picture was complete.

His heart swelled with joy and love as he drank her in. "You are the most gorgeous woman I've ever met." Then he pulled her into his arms and held her close. "Megan, I'm so sorry about earlier. I didn't mean—"

"Shh…." She placed a finger to his lips. "All is forgotten… and forgiven. Let's just enjoy ourselves tonight."

Dallas smiled as he offered her his arm. "Shall we?"

She nodded. "Thank ye… fer everything. Ye went through a lot of trouble for tonight and I know it's going to be a success."

Dallas patted her arm. "I just want you to have fun."

Megan nodded. "I will." She pulled him to a stop, her eyes filled with concern. "Dallas, I want ye to enjoy yerself, too."

He smiled, pleased by the sentiment. "I will… as long as I'm with you."

"I feel like a princess," Megan said, a slight blush touching her cheeks.

Dallas gazed into her eyes, seeing something he hadn't seen before, and his heart fluttered with joy and anticipation. At that moment, he had never wanted a woman so much before in his life. "You are a princess." Then he kissed her lips, tasting her. "You deserve fine things. I would give you the moon if I could."

She looked at him through her lashes, tugging at his heart. "Dallas, ye don't have to keep showering me with gifts. Not all the time, anyway. All I want is you."

He nodded, understanding. She didn't want him for everything he could give her. She wanted him for who he was. Dallas pressed his lips to hers and she melted into his arms. He wanted to hold her, to freeze the moment and keep it in his heart forever.

She pulled back and smoothed her hands over her hair. "Do I look okay?"

"Divine." Dallas kissed each finger on her left hand. "Simply divine. You will be turning the heads of every man at the ball."

She placed her hand on his cheek. "Yers is the only head I want to turn."

He kissed the back of her hand, his eyes never leaving hers. "Let's go. Everyone will be here soon." Then one corner of his lips curled into a sly smile. "Besides, I want to show you off." Dallas adjusted his vest, and then offered Megan his arm. "Shall we?"

She smiled as she slid her hand over his arm. When they walked to the top of the stairs, Charles let out a low whistle. "Don't you both look fabulous!"

Dallas smiled and patted Megan's hand as he led her down the stairs. When they reached the first floor, Dallas felt like a prince who had finally found his princess.

Charles extended his hand to hers. "Mrs. King, you look simply divine." He kissed her hand and then released it and looked up at Dallas, smiling. "You, my friend, are a very lucky man."

"Why, thank you, sir." Megan looked around, her eyes wide. "Everything looks beautiful! It feels as if you've transformed the house into a castle."

Soon, their guests started to arrive, eager to meet his new bride. Dallas had introduced Megan to everyone as they arrived, and they all greeted her warmly. He also introduced Charles, and everyone welcomed him. Dallas smiled, pleased that Charles was enjoying himself. Maybe he was right. Maybe the most important thing in life was friendship, trust, and love.

After the last of the guests had arrived, Dallas took Megan's hand and tucked it in his arm. "You're the belle of the ball." She blushed a beautiful shade of pink. "Are you hungry?"

She shook her head. "I don't think I could eat now if I wanted to."

Colton and Ella Hill were standing off to the right holding their twins, both dressed in cute clothes—the girl was in a pretty pink dress and the boy wore cute pants, a light blue shirt, and a little cowboy hat that matched his father's. They were talking to Wyatt and Madison Nash. Wyatt owned the Whiskey River Saloon, and Madison was the town schoolteacher.

"Come here," Dallas told Megan. "I'd like to introduce you to some people." He had almost said "friends" but they were more like acquaintances. But he wouldn't mind being friends with them, and there was no better time than the present to start.

"Colton, Ella, Wyatt, and Madison, I'd like to introduce my wife, Megan." Dallas made the introductions, pointing to each person. "And these are Ella and Colton's children, Hannah and Blake."

"‘Tis a pleasure." Megan greeted them with a nod and then carefully reached out to shake little Blake's hand. "‘Tis a pleasure to meet you, too."

The baby boy cooed loudly and then let out a chorus of "Da, da, da, da."

Dallas's eyes flew open wide. "He's talking already?"

"They're both nine months old now." Colton smiled proudly. "That's all he says so far, but his first word was da, da."

Ella smiled warmly as she took Megan's hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "It's so good to meet you. Welcome to Whiskey River."

Dallas offered Colton his hand. "Thanks for your help a while back with the robbery. Colton, I hope we can put the past behind us and become friends."

Colton smiled as he shook his hand. "Yes, absolutely."

"The children are so cute." Dallas slid his arm around Megan's shoulders. "I can't wait until we have children of our own, too."

"It'll happen sooner than you think." Colton laughed as he played with his son. "But you'll both make good parents someday."

Dallas smiled, and then looked at Megan. "We'll have to come by your ranch and visit and you'll have to do the same."

"Sure!" Colton lifted his eyebrows in surprise. "You're welcome to come over anytime."

Dallas then shook Ella's hand. "Congratulations on the children. You look wonderful, by the way."

Colton laughed. "Oh, hey now."

Dallas gave him a wink and chuckled. "Can you blame me?" he teased.

Megan smiled. "Congratulations. You'll have to come and visit us, too. And please, bring the children."

Ella smiled warmly as she gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Thank you. I truly appreciate that." She glanced over at Dallas. "I'm glad you found her. It's good to see you happy."

"Thank you." Dallas nodded, glad that all of them were able to put the past behind them. Although Ella was supposed to have been his mail-order bride, he was glad it had worked out the way it did. After the last month of being married to Megan, he couldn't imagine his life turning out any other way. "So, Wyatt. How is the saloon business going?"

Wyatt smiled. "It's going well, thank you. I heard you had some trouble at the bank a few weeks ago. If you ever need anything, I'm here to help."

Dallas shook his hand. "I appreciate that. And the same goes for me. If I can ever do anything for you, just let me know."

Wyatt smiled his thanks. "So, congratulations on your marriage. We wish you both the best and we hope you'll be very happy."

"We already are." Dallas slid his arm around Megan's waist as she blushed.

Everyone laughed.

"So, how's married life?" Dallas asked Wyatt.

"It's going well," Wyatt replied as he slid his arm around Madison.

"Trying to keep him out of trouble is hard work, though," Madison teased as everyone chuckled.

Wyatt smiled down at her. "Hey, you haven't been complaining so far."

Everyone laughed again.

"Well, I'm so glad you came." Dallas stepped away. "We'll see you in a bit. Enjoy the party." Dallas led Megan around the room, making sure that she had the opportunity to meet everyone. Dallas stopped when they reached Dirk and Gabriella, who was visibly pregnant. "Dirk, Gabriella, I'd like to introduce my wife, Megan."

"It truly is a pleasure to meet you both." Megan offered Gabriella her hand.

Gabriella gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "The pleasure is ours," Gabriella replied in a rich French accent. "Do I detect an Irish accent?"

Megan smiled. "Yes, I'm originally from Dublin. Where are you from?"

"Monaco," Gabriella replied, absentmindedly rubbing her stomach. Although she was visibly pregnant, she looked lovely. Pregnancy suited her.

"Do you know that Gabriella is a real princess?" Dallas interjected.

Megan's eyes opened wide. "Really? How on earth did you ever move here?"

Gabriella grinned as Dirk pulled her to his side. "It's a long story, one that I'll have to share over tea sometime."

Megan smiled. "I'd like that." She moved closer. "If ye don't mind me askin', when are ye due?"

Gabriella moved closer to Dirk, who slid his arm around her. "Christmas."

"Congratulations," Megan replied and then Dallas led her away.

Dallas and Megan continued to mingle, meeting everyone in the room. He was glad to see that just about every person in Whiskey River was in attendance. Even Charles seemed to be enjoying himself.

Just then, the string quartet started playing a beautiful waltz. Dallas had brought in the musicians from Laramie. It had cost him a fortune, but it was worth it. Introducing his wife to the town was a very special occasion.

"I believe they're playing our song."

Megan blushed. "We have a song?"

"Now we do," he replied, already leading her toward the dance floor. "Shall we?"

"But no one else is dancing." Megan looked around.

Dallas shrugged. "And it's a shame, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is." She smiled as she slid her arm over his shoulder.

Dallas couldn't help but notice how perfectly she fit into his arms. It was almost as if they were made for each other. Megan was stiff at first but then relaxed and let him lead her around the dance floor. Before long, other couples joined them, but Dallas only had eyes for Megan as he guided her around the room. "You're an excellent dancer."

"I'm a quick learner." She chuckled, arching an eyebrow. "You approve? No dance lessons needed?"

Dallas laughed and shrugged. "If you like, I'd love to take dance lessons with you."

Megan smiled. "Is there an instructor in Whiskey River?"

"Hardly!" Dallas laughed, shaking his head. "No, we'll have to go to Laramie. But it's not far. Would you like to go?"

Megan nodded. "Yes, of course. I love to dance."

The music shifted to another waltz, and they kept right on dancing.

"Are you enjoying yourself?" Dallas asked.

"Immensely," she replied. "I've never had so much fun in my life."

"I'm so glad to hear it," Dallas said as they circled the room.

"Are you having fun?"

"Yes, I am. I'm having more fun tonight than I thought I would."

Soon, the song came to an end, and he stepped back and kissed her hand. Megan clapped along with the rest of the crowd when Dallas saw Charles, standing off to the side of the room. Wyatt and Madison were standing at the door, so Charles turned to speak with them. Charles and Wyatt were also business partners. For some reason, Dallas's chest filled with jealousy. Wasn't Charles there to visit him? Dallas knew the feeling was irrational, but the green monster filled his chest, nevertheless.

"Come along." Dallas guided her toward Charles, wanting to make sure that he had a good time and to make a good impression on him.

When Dallas and Megan approached, Charles extended his hand, grinning. "Dallas, you really have outdone yourself. Everything looks exquisite."

"I'm so glad you're here. It just wouldn't be a party without you." Dallas beamed, giving his shoulder a manly squeeze. "I trust you're having a good time?"

Charles smiled. "Yes, very much." He looked over at Wyatt. "It's good to catch up with everyone here in the town, too." Charles looked around the room. "It appears that everyone in town came."

Dallas smiled. "Yes, it seems so." Then he turned to Megan. "Megan? Charles is a Whitfield, of the New York Whitfields."

Megan nodded, her eyes wide. "Oh?"

Charles smile faded at the mention of his family, but he quickly recovered. He took her hand and raised it to his lips. "Yes, but here, I'm just me."

Even though he had noticed that Charles frowned at the mention of his family's status, Dallas just couldn't help himself, wanting to impress his own importance onto everyone within earshot. "He and his family owns many businesses in New York."

Charles's smile faded. "Yes, but we're not here tonight to discuss business. Are we, Mr. King?" He stressed the Mr. King part to give him a hint to stop, but Dallas ignored it.

Megan placed a hand on Dallas's arm. "Perhaps Charles is hungry, dear?"

"Yes, of course." Dallas turned back to Charles. "Would you like something to eat?"

"No, I'm not hungry. Thank you," Charles replied flatly.

Megan looked nervously between the men. "Dallas, let's dance."

"Soon," Dallas interrupted and then turned to Charles. "Would you like to dance with her?" Although Dallas knew he was making a fool of himself, he just couldn't stop, determined to show Charles that he was worthy of the help he had bestowed upon him in the past.

Megan's eyes narrowed.

Charles looked between Megan and Dallas and shook his head. "Although I would be delighted to dance with such a fair lady, I'm a bit tired at the moment."

Charles turned back to Wyatt, but Dallas interrupted, claiming his attention. "Perhaps a drink, then?"

"Dallas, I need to speak with you… privately," Charles replied, anger leaking into his voice.

"Dear," Megan interrupted, sliding her hand onto his arm. "Let's take this outside. Shall we?"

"In a moment." Dallas patted her hand condescendingly, ignoring her, focusing only on Charles.

"Dallas, don't do this," Charles whispered, glancing around the room.

"But—"

"Dallas, let's go outside… now." Charles looked around. "Let's not make a scene in front of your guests."

Dallas looked around the room, noticing that they were starting to attract attention. "Yes, of course." He turned to Wyatt. "If you'll excuse us."

Wyatt nodded, his eyebrows pulling together in concern. "Yes, of course."

At that moment, everything came to a head… the years of him being poor then struggling to make it to the top. Well, now he was at the top and by golly he was going to prove it. As he followed Megan outside, he knew he was flaunting his wealth and that of Charles before his guests, but he just couldn't help himself. He had to prove his worth, that he was now worthy of his success. Until this moment, he hadn't realized what a toll the years of struggle and hard work had taken on him.

Outside, Charles looked over and a few people were mingling. "Leave us, please." The people nodded and then walked inside without incident. Charles walked away from the house and Dallas and Megan followed. Charles stopped, out of earshot.

When they were alone, Dallas grabbed Megan's arm. "Don't you ever embarrass me like that again!"

"Let me go!" she yelled.

Rage welled up within Dallas's chest. "How dare you refuse to do as I've asked! We're in the middle of a party!"

Megan jerked her arm away. "No, ye're in the middle of trying to impress Charles!" She flung her hand toward Charles, who was waiting patiently to the side. "Ye were making a fool of yerself in there! Was that what this party was all about? To flaunt yer wealth at the feet of Mr. Whitfield? Is that why ye married me? To bring me out and show me off like a dancing bear when it suits ye?"

Anger welled up within his chest. "I was just trying to make him feel comfortable–"

"Comfortable?" Megan asked. "Ye call that comfortable? Ye were nearly embarrassing yerself, him… and me, too!"

Dallas took a step back as if he'd just been slapped. "So, I'm an embarrassment to you?"

Megan sighed. "No, not at all. But ye nearly embarrassed yerself in there!"

"How?" Dallas asked.

"Ye were trying too hard to please Mr. Whitfield and to impress everyone else." Megan lifted her arm to touch his, but he pulled away. "Just be yerself and stop trying so hard. Don't worry so much if everyone will like ye or not. People will like ye even if yer poor. I was poor, too, But I'm still going to be me… whether I have money or not. And ye were in there flaunting me! I'm not one of yer possessions that ye can—"

"I merely offered Charles a dance with you. Nothing more." Rage filled his chest. "I thought he might like to dance–"

"But why with me?" Megan asked as her eyes filled with tears. "I'm not a trophy that ye can bring out and flaunt when the time suits ye!"

"You're not a trophy but you will do as I ask."

"Like hell I will!" Megan placed her hands defiantly on her waist.

Dallas took a step toward her, but Charles stepped between them.

"Dallas, I think you need to calm down," Charles interrupted. "This isn't really about Megan, is it?"

Dallas stood there, his eyes flaring.

Megan stepped to the side, giving them room.

Charles took a step closer to him. "Dallas, what was that all about in there? You know I don't like to discuss my family, my wealth. Why did you do that? I thought we were friends, and I came here to see you !" Charles let out a deep breath and then lowered his voice. "But besides that, one of the reasons why I like coming to Whiskey River is because everyone treats me like I'm a normal person. No one treats me differently because of my status, or because of what family I come from, and I'd like to keep it that way."

"I'm sorry, Charles." Anger filled Dallas's chest, even though he was trying to calm down. "I didn't mean to hurt you."

"Then what the hell was that?" Charles flailed his hand toward the house. "What was all of that in there? I thought you were my friend!"

"I am!" Dallas yelled, his body trembling. "But you've had everything that I never had! Can't you see? I came from nothing, Charles! My father was a sharecropper! I scraped my way to the top and I couldn't have done it without your help." He let out a deep breath in defeat. "I guess I wanted to prove to you that I was worthy of it." Dallas bit his lower lip as tears came to his eyes. Then he glanced over at Charles, lowering his voice. "I guess I don't want people to see me for who my family is, either. I want people to see me for who I am, and not where I came from, too." Dallas turned away so Charles wouldn't see his shame. "And yes, Charles, we're friends. In fact, you're probably my only friend." He turned around and their eyes met. "Your friendship has meant the world to me, and I hope I haven't lost it."

Charles took a step closer and placed his hand on his shoulder. "No, of course not. Just please, don't ever do that again. Just as you don't want people to judge you for your family, neither do I."

Dallas nodded. "I owe you an apology, Charles." Dallas smirked without humor. "You may not believe me after my behavior in there, but I've always liked you for who you are and not for your wealth or your family."

Charles smiled. "In college when you stood with me, shoulder to shoulder against those bullies, I've liked you since. You didn't know me from Adam, yet you stood with me. It told me a lot about your character." He placed a hand on his shoulder. "Dallas, I hope you know that your wealth, or lack of it, never meant anything to me."

"I know. That's one of the things I've always liked about you." Dallas sighed. "I guess I was just jealous of it, though. You had everything handed to you, but didn't want it. And here I've had to struggle for everything I've ever had."

Charles let out a deep breath. "I guess I've been jealous of you, too. You worked hard and made yourself who you are."

"You helped me—"

"No," Charles corrected. "All I did was to give you a start. What you did with it was your doing. As you know, I've helped other people before and lost money. But I never stopped believing in people and wanting to help them." Charles placed his hand on Dallas's shoulder. "Dallas, I'd always bet on you." He pulled him in for a manly hug. When he pulled back, he asked, "Now, can we get past this? You're one of the only true friends I've ever had."

Dallas smiled. "Yes, of course." Then he turned to Megan. "I'm so sorry. You're right and it'll never happen again." He took her hands into his. "But just to let you know, I may have married for status, but I'm glad it was you."

Megan gave him a weak smile. "Let's go inside." Her voice cracked, filled with emotion.

Dallas nodded. But as they walked inside, he hoped that Megan could forgive him just as Charles had. But somehow, he knew it wasn't going to be that easy.