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ing through the dust, her arms swinging at her sides, her face shining in the heat. |
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Mike had never been particularly attracted to athletic, outdoorsy women; Dixie, his wife, had been a sophisticate who only deigned to exercise in the comfort of an air-conditioned gym. Maybe that was why he found Abby's attitude so refreshing, so . . . enticing. Despite himself, he had an urge to get to know her better. |
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Trying to make conversation, he commented, "I've never been on one of those wagon train expeditions, although they do sound fun." |
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She glanced at him. Her expression seemed, for some reason, incredulous. "I have learned a lot but found our journey most difficult, myself. I suppose an adventurer might enjoy it better. How did you travel here?" |
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That silenced him. Again, her response was off. |
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He asked finally, "Where did your wagon train come from?" Maybe he could get some information from her that waylike where he could drop her tomorrow. |
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"Independence, Missouri," she said. |
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"Oh, come on now," he exploded. At her frightened expression, he tried to calm himself. "Look, I asked a simple question. All I want is the truth." |
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"I gave it to you," she said in a hoarse whisper, her brown eyes wide and wary. |
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For the moment, he gave up. Either she was working very hard to keep up a role in order to |
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