Heart of Eden (Colorado Hearts #1)(6)

Dressing them down to their pantaloons with a sharp tongue-lashing would feel so good.

His gaze shifted to the next sister, standing at Mavis’s elbow. She was as tall as Mavis but instead of brown hair, hers was a dark blonde, golden like a spring sunrise.

“I’m Belle Brinkman,” she said in a clear, strong voice that matched her straight posture.

Something clicked in Blake’s memory: Belle. A chatterbox, to be sure.

Her face, a tad too round to be considered oval, was striking, with high-set, distinct cheekbones and lovely eyes. Of the five, she resembled their mother the most. Blake watched her attention glide over to her sister’s husband and linger. He didn’t think too much about it until the fella’s regard softened, bringing color to her cheeks. Blake looked away. He didn’t want any part of her deceptions. She’d once hit him over the head with a candlestick, angry over something—he didn’t remember the why.

The third oldest, and the only one with strawberry-colored hair, spoke up next, a shy smile on her face displaying a dimple on her right cheek. Henry’s impressive bookshelf had caught her interest. He remembered Emma and the adoring toddler eyes she’d cast in his direction.

His gaze shifted to Lavinia, who shyly introduced herself. She had been learning to walk the last time he’d seen her, and drooling from a newly sprouted bottom tooth.

Has it really been that long?

She wore a hat that covered most of her dark hair, and the black netting on the top looked a bit ragged. The small strawberry birthmark on her neck that resembled an hourglass was still there. He imagined she’d be shocked to know he’d once helped change her diaper.

“Then you must be Katie,” Henry said to the youngest, an eighteen-year-old version of Belle, with her lighter hair and blue eyes. They might be mistaken for twins if not for the beauty mark under the corner of Katie’s bottom lip.

No one could deny John had sired a gaggle of beautiful girls who held themselves with dignity and poise. Blake felt mightily outnumbered.

Katie smiled. “That’s correct, Mr. Glass. I was an infant when I left Eden. I must say, the town is much more rugged than I ever expected.”

Henry chuckled. “Don’t let that trouble you, Miss Brinkman. We have some charms the big city doesn’t. Now,” he said, clapping his hands together once, “first let me say thank you to everyone for making the long, difficult trip. I extend my condolences about your father. His death was a shock to us all.” Henry’s expression clouded over for a moment. “John was a healthy man. Even with the broken leg, if infection hadn’t set in, he’d be alive today.”

Blake dropped his attention to the floor. And you all wouldn’t be here. Only death moves your compassion. For shame, little ladies, for shame.

“I’ll bring another chair around for you, Mr. Applebee,” Henry said. “Of course you’re welcome to sit by your wife.” He glanced at Mavis and smiled. “I didn’t mean to leave you out, but I wasn’t aware any of the girls had married.”

The fellow pushed away from the windowsill, and Mavis straightened.

“I’m sorry for the confusion,” she said. “Mr. Atkins is not my husband. Mr. Applebee passed away last month. This is Belle’s gentleman friend, Mr. Lesley Atkins. He is our escort.”

Explains the earlier look.

“Oh!” Henry said in surprise. “Well, we appreciate you taking the time out of your schedule to ensure the Brinkman sisters’ safe arrival, sir. I know John would have been duly grateful, as am I.”

“It was my pleasure,” Mr. Atkins replied. “I can assure you, having five beautiful women to watch over is not an imposition.” His gaze once again strayed to Belle.

Right. Blake shifted his weight from one leg to the other. Henry must have caught Blake’s expression, because he arched a brow in warning.

“Unfortunately,” Henry went on, “the reading of the will is a family-only affair. I’ll have to ask you to leave.”

Belle stiffened. “But we’re practically promised,” she said. “What could be the harm?”

Blake discreetly wiped the smile from his face, enjoying the show.

She reminds me of John fighting for water rights two years ago.

Henry was firm. “I’m sorry.”

She softened. “Mr. Glass, can’t he please stay? When our business is finished and we’ve seen the ranch, we’re headed right back to Philadelphia. His parents are throwing a large party.” She smiled tenderly at Mr. Atkins. “Which in all likelihood might be an engagement party.”

Poor fellow.

Henry blinked twice in quick succession, a sure sign his patience was wearing thin. “No. I’m sorry, Miss Brinkman,” he said in a kind tone. “That’s not possible. Your father was explicit in his directions. I’m here to carry out his last wishes.”

“Then why does Mr. Harding get to stay? He’s not family.” She cast a disapproving gaze Blake’s way.

Heat sprang to Blake’s face. He knew his scar was shining.

Good question.

“According to your father, Mr. Harding is family. He’s been invited to be here, just like the rest of you. He has no idea what is written in your father’s will.” Once Mr. Atkins had excused himself, Henry said, “Please, take your seats and get comfortable. The unknown is what’s difficult. I can assure you that as soon as we have this taken care of, you’ll all feel better.” Henry smiled and waved his arm over the row of chairs, looking a little anxious himself.