After so long, Jake had wondered if he’d ever see the bitch again. Her tent, along with the belongings she’d left, had been disassembled and packed away after she’d gone and kept in a small shed built to house extra supplies when the men moved into winter quarters. After Montgomery left, Jake continued to observe her while she inspected her tent that had been erected when the company knew they were returning. Once she disappeared inside, he strode over and yanked back the flap of canvas. From where she stood leaning over her trunk, she half turned and gasped. A red leather-covered book sat on top of her clothing. “A new journal?” he asked. “If you must know, it was a gift from Will’s sister, since I lost my other one.” “Will, is it now?” When she didn’t answer, he continued, “Reckon you’d like to know what happened to it.” “I’m sure I know who took it.” He took a step towards her. “I have your book, and I know all about how you just tolerate my presence for the information I hand you, you whore.
