Chapter 45
Butte Meadows, Nebraska - September 1874
"Jeremiah," Louise called out, beckoning her brother into her bedroom. "Can we talk? It's about Violette."
Jeremiah sighed and shuffled in, slumping onto the bed. "I know, I know Lou. Take it slow and she don't live here."
"I know this is tough," Louise soothed. "But my concern is for both of you. You're young, and she lives far away."
Jeremiah bristled. "I'm not a little kid, Lou. I'm eighteen. I'm a man."
"I know you are." Louise reassured him, softening her tone. "But she's sixteen."
"Look, if I wanted to pursue things seriously..." Jeremiah trailed off, unsure how to articulate his thoughts.
Louise sat beside him on the bed. "If you want to build a future with someone, there are things to consider. You need some independence - a place of your own, and a steady job that can support a future family, if that's what you both want someday."
Jeremiah's eyes lit up. "Maybe Buck would be willing to hire me on as a deputy's assistant. I could learn the ropes from him."
"That's a great idea!" Louise beamed. "Buck's a good mentor to have. I'm proud of you, Jeremiah, for thinking ahead."
"Lou?" Jeremiah hesitated.
"Yes?" she asked, pausing at the doorway.
"Violette comes from a wealthy family," he admitted, a worried frown creasing his brow. "I can't offer her that kind of life."
Louise chuckled. "Sweetheart, very few people have that kind of wealth. It's not the most important thing in a relationship. If Violette cares for you, it will be about who you are, not your bank account. If she needs someone to provide a life of luxury, then maybe she's not the right girl for you anyway."
"I just don't want to disappoint her," Jeremiah said quietly.
"Love isn't about disappointment," Louise said, ruffling his hair with a smile. "It's about supporting each other, no matter what life throws your way."