The Texas Ranger's Secret. DeWanna Pace

      “Hand me those letters. I better get them on out there while I can. Looks like it means to give us a good dunking or three before the clouds move on past.”

      Bear disappeared into the next room and returned with both envelopes. “Here you go. Hope it’s worth the trouble you’re putting yourself through.”

      “By the way, I need to mention one more thing.” A chill swept over Gage as he moved away from the warmth of Bear’s hearth. “If you see a man fitting this description, would you keep me posted? Not quite six foot, red hair long enough to tie back. Green eyes, if you can ever get him to look you in the face. Both hands are scarred but he’s fair with a pistol. Deadly with a whip.”

      “A wanted man?” Bear opened his door to let Gage leave.

      Gage stepped outside and faced the blacksmith. “More than most. One way you’ll spot him easy—when he grins, he’s got a shiny tooth. Considers himself a ladies’ man and likes to show it off as some kind of prized nugget he won from a miner.”

      “What’d he do?”

      “Rustled horses.”

      “You plan to kill him?”

      Though Gage could legally take justice into his own hands, he shook his head. “He’ll face a judge.”

      “Were they your horses?”

      “No.” Gage stared Bear straight in the eyes, not caring that his scars were in full sight. “He stole my future. Worst kind of thief there is.”