Chapter 14

Shadow Valley, Texas - October 1872

Bethany sank onto the bed, a heavy weight settling on her chest. "I don't know what to tell you, mother. I just feel like I'm losing him."

Desiree, a picture of controlled fury, paced the room. "Is there someone else? Have you noticed any new interests in town?"

"No, I don't think so," Bethany replied.

"Then why do you feel this way?" Desiree pressed, her voice laced with accusation. "His behavior has changed?"

Bethany choked back a sob, tears blurring her vision. "Mother, I don't love him. It feels wrong to pretend."

Desiree's face hardened. "Love is a luxury we can't afford right now, Bethany. We're running out of money. By winter, there'll be nothing left. This marriage is our lifeline."

Bethany flinched, a raw vulnerability replacing defiance in her eyes. "But I can't force him to love me."

Desiree scoffed. "Nonsense, Bethany. There isn't a woman in this town half as beautiful as you are."

"But beauty isn't everything," Bethany said, her voice rising in frustration. "Oliver loved me, in his own twisted way. And Buck… there's just no love in his eyes."

"Don't be ridiculous," Desiree snapped, grabbing Bethany's arms tightly. "You need to step up your efforts. Show him more affection, remind him of what he owes you."

Bethany recoiled from her mother's touch. "Mother! That's not a foundation for a marriage."

Desiree's eyes narrowed. "It's the foundation for our family's security, Bethany. Don't you want to see Samantha healthy and happy again?"

Bethany flinched at the mention of her sister. "Of course I do!"

"Then do what needs to be done," Desiree hissed. "Samantha's recovery depends on a secure future for both of you. You need to make Buck understand that."

A seed of doubt was planted in Bethany's mind. Glancing out the window at Samantha, a flicker of desperation crossed her face. Her mother's words echoed in her head – Samantha's well-being hinged on this marriage.

Later that day, Desiree hurried to the general store, a dark plan formulating in her mind. She emerged with a small bottle clutched in her hand, a cruel smile playing on her lips. Samantha's "recovery" was about to take an unexpected turn.