Chapter 17
Cheyenne, Wyoming 1867
Lochlan paced his office like a caged wolf, the worn wood creaking under his restless steps. He'd stormed into Róisín's room hours ago, apology on his tongue when he saw her absence. Sending men out to search the muddy town only amped up his growing unease. Relief washed over him when he finally spotted her entering the saloon.
He stalked to her room, expecting resistance, but found her entering with a quiet resignation. "Róisín," he said, a gruff apology forming on his lips. He cleared his throat. "About earlier…"
"I understand," she cut him off, her voice flat.
The dismissal stung, but Lochlan pressed on. "Where have you been?"
"Out," she answered, her body language tense as she folded her shawl, a clear signal he wasn't welcome.
"You know this isn't a safe place, Róisín." Frustration tinged his voice. "Stay in the saloon. If you need supplies? I'll have them brought ta you, or one of the men can escort you."
A defiant glint entered her eyes. "I'm not some bird you can keep in a cage!"
"Róise, be reasonable."
"Reasonable?" She scoffed, her voice rising. "I'm an adult. I don't need you hovering over me. You're not my father!"
His eyes narrowed as he took in the sight of her, wind-tousled hair, and the rosy flush on her cheeks. A cold dread settled in Lochlan's stomach. Could this be it? "Róise, tell me I'm wrong. You ain't been spreading your legs—"
"Don't be vulgar!" She snapped.
"Your hair, your clothes…" He gestured dismissively. "I can't believe I ain't see it before." His possessiveness curdled into something ugly. "Is that why you turned down Carson? Because of some… back-alley lover?"
The accusation stung. "Leave," she spat, shoving him towards the door.
He didn't budge. Instead, his hand shot out, an iron grip tightening around her neck as he held her against the door. "I won't have my own sister whoring around," he snarled. "Especially not with some lowlife. Understand?"
Róisín stared at him, a flicker of fear in her eyes, quickly replaced by steely defiance. "Yes," she whispered, the word laced with quiet strength.
Lochlan finally released her, the echo of her gasp filling the room. She leaned heavily against the door, sucking in deep breaths, the air stinging in her raw throat.