Sapphire Skies

By Mary Galusha

In 1892, Austrian immigrant, Lili Kohl arrives in Cedar Creek, Montana, unprepared but determined to file for a homestead for her family. She prays that her domineering father will acknowledge her efforts and at long last be proud of her, but how can he be when the only work she finds is an unusual position in the town's only bordello?

Former dceputy and now rancher, Gabriel McCall has the same goal - a homestead with his brother thus fulfilling his father's deathbed wish. Problems arise when Lili finds herself flling in love with Gabe only to discover her wants the same piece of land she has her heart set on.

When her family arrives from Austria without warning, she is left with trying to reconcile the two strong willed men in her life. Will her own happiness be the cost?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mary Galusha
• Release date: Jan 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781386612445

Mary Galusha

Mary Galusha loves to write adventurous and romantic stories. Decended from immigrant homesteaders,she makes history and romance come alive by drawing from stories told around the family kitchen table. After a career of teaching grade school and being a financial aid advisor for area high schools, she is now working on her novels. Mary lives in Southern California and enjoys her grandkids, friends, reading, playing bridge,(casual, not too serious),and movies. She and her husband love their backyard filled with birds, bees and butterflies.

Book preview

Chapter One

Cedar Creek, Montana

September 1892

Gathering her ankle length skirt in her hand, Lili Kohl stepped down from the train and breathed in the cool, crisp Montana air. Overhead, a sapphire blue sky stretched out to the horizon in every direction.

Lili scanned the crowd. Where were her friends? She'd sent a letter telling them when she would arrive. A knot formed in her stomach, making her wish she had waited for a return letter from them before traveling to Cedar Creek.

From the platform came shouts and waves to loved ones arriving. She listened to other passengers speaking English, her new language, while talking with one another.

Placing her valise at her feet, Lili sat on the edge of one of the benches outside.

Tumbleweeds whirled down the dusty street in concert with the whistling wind, causing horses to shift in restlessness at their hitching posts. Voices of men lounging on the benches outside rough wooden buildings drifted down the street.

The tiny town looked barren. Lili thought of Austria, her beautiful homeland, with picturesque cobblestone streets. She longed to see those bustling streets again.

The knot in her stomach grew harder. Why had she come to this faraway place by herself? It looked so easy in her dreams. She'd establish a homestead for her parents. Maybe, then Papa would approve of her.

Now, the station stood empty except for the stationmaster who shuffled toward her. May I help you?

Lili looked up. I hope so. Do you know Carl and Greta Schmitt? She offered a silent prayer he would be able to help her.

Sure do.

They're supposed to meet me.

Well, I'm afraid I have some bad news for you. He took off his hat and wiped his brow. The Schmitt's moved to Chicago last month. Carl's going to work on the buildings for the World's Fair. Better pay than farming and ranching.

Lili's heart slammed against her ribs. She tried in desperation to swallow the lump in her throat. She'd come all the way from New York City planning on staying with the Schmitt's for a while. This ruined everything.

"Do you need a place to stay?

She sure did. And hoped it would not be too expensive. Yes, sir, I do.

The hotel has reasonable prices.

Lili took a deep breath, hoping her English would be correct. Where may I find it?

Right up the street, the building with the wagon in front. I can have your trunk sent there.

Lili thanked him and picked up her valise.

Now, remember, there's a train going east next week, in case you want to go back.

She thanked him and walked toward the hotel, conscious of the men milling about outside, some of them looking her way. She prayed her uncertainty didn't show.

Approaching the double oak doors of the hotel, Lili noticed a man in a white shirt leaning against a post near the entrance. His broad chest tapered down to a leather belt, and jeans covered his long legs. Rolled up sleeves accentuated his muscular brown arms folded across his chest. She tried to see his eyes, but a wide brimmed hat shaded his face.

As she came closer to him, he removed his hat and held the door open for her. This unexpected polite gesture caught her by surprise.

Lili glanced up into smiling brown eyes, and her heart stopped. Why? His skin looked darker than most of the men outside. His kindness unsettled her. Her voice failed. She gave him a brief smile and went into the hotel.

In the lobby, comfortable looking chairs surrounding a low table holding a bouquet of flowers in a glass-canning jar. Overhead, a fan turned in slow circles. Tantalizing smells wafted from the dining room located near the manager's desk.

How much would it cost to stay here? New York City was a long way off, but if her plans for a homestead didn't work out, she might be on the next train going back. She needed to watch her spending.

Using her best, but halting English, Lili asked the desk clerk, How much would a single room cost?

The desk clerk eyed her with suspicion. There's a tiny room at the top of the stairs you can rent for twenty-five cents a day, if you pay for a week in advance.

"Yes, I want the room. She opened her reticule and with great care, counted out the correct amount of money, placing it on the desk. With a smile, the man behind the desk handed her the key.

Do you need work, miss?

Yes, I do. She glanced at the small hotel dining room. The kitchen might need help. I'm a good cook. Lili held her breath.

Sorry, we don't need a cook, but you could try the saloon right across the street. I think he's looking for someone.

A saloon? Lili's mouth felt dry. Dear God, what have I gotten myself into?

Thanking him, she cleared her throat, climbed the stairs, and unlocked the door to her room. Inside, a worn quilt covered the bed and a tiny oak dresser held a water pitcher and basin. An oak straight-backed chair sat in front of the window.

She sank onto the bed.

Why had she been so impatient? She wished she'd waited to hear from her friends before heading west. No, she had to rush off to Montana. She was always doing something like this, giving Papa yet another reason to be angry and scold her. Please God. Help me know what to do.

Lili poured water from the flowered pitcher into a matching basin and washed her face. She dried it with the small towel hanging on the side of the dresser and glanced into the mirror. Her hair had become undone. Rummaging in her valise, she found a brush and after a thorough brushing, braided her hair. She wanted to make a good first impression when she applied for work.

Downstairs, Lili smiled at the manager, left the hotel, and crossed the dusty street toward the saloon. The same man who had held the door for her earlier stood talking to some other men near the saloon. He tipped his hat to her. Dark hair edged his collar. For a moment his gaze held hers. Her heart slammed against her ribs and not knowing what to do, she turned away and tried to steady herself before going into the Silver Spigot.

Lili hesitated at the swinging double doors of the saloon. Taking a deep breath, she stepped inside. The strong smell of cigar smoke and alcohol assaulted her. Papa forgive me, she whispered.

Whew. She fanned her face, remembering the smell as she ran past the village saloon coming home from school. Her father had told her stories of what went on inside. Men drinking too much. Mistreating women. Getting into brawls.

She stood still and took in the sawdust-covered floor with a few tables where men played cards. A man behind the bar polished the dark, gleaming wood.

A huge painting of a naked woman lounging on a red velvet couch hung overhead. A glittering red stone necklace and earrings accentuated her pale skin. The woman's long dark hair almost covered a cream-colored pillow. Her knowing eyes looked right at Lili. One hand held an open black lace fan. The other hand nestled between her legs.

Lili gasped. Her stomach fluttered. She'd never seen a painting like this before. It looked like it took up the whole room. The bartender looked up from his work and smiled. You like Brandy?

What?

We call her Brandy.

Oh. She collected her thoughts in proper English. I heard you might need a cook. She kept looking straight at him, hoping he wouldn't mention the painting again. She couldn't keep herself from glancing up at it.

We don't serve food, but I sure could use another pretty barmaid. I only got one right now and I need two girls. You interested?

A chill went down her spine. Papa would never approve of her serving drinks.

No, thank you. She hoped the bartender didn't see her trembling as she turned and on unsteady legs walked out the double doors.

Miss, a deep voice called to her.

She turned. The man she'd seen outside earlier walked toward her, his gait easy and relaxed. The corners of his mouth turned up. Her heart pounded. Did this stranger speak to her?

I heard you say you needed work, and I know Josie is looking for someone. His voice had a different kind of accent from other people she'd talked with.

Lili swallowed. Where is Josie's?

Right next door to the saloon. She's the madam, but don't get the wrong idea. She has a big heart. You'll like her.

Madam?

Josie runs the whorehouse. Heard her cook left.

A whorehouse, she knew what the word meant. He insulted her. Scowling, Lili turned on her heel and hurried back to the hotel.

Back in her room, she paced the floor. Her options were limited. She couldn't afford to turn down work at the brothel without at least checking it out.

Her father would be mortified. She sure couldn't impress him this way. If she could get a job as a cook there just long enough to earn back the money she'd paid for her hotel room, Papa would never have to know. Please God, help me.

The September sun had already set, leaving soft warm breezes behind. The girls who worked at Josie's sat on their porch. Hey, mister, want to have fun? one of them called to a man walking by. Her half-hearted invitation earned a quick shake of the head.

Lili climbed the steps unnoticed and asked, Is the owner of the house here?

You mean the madam? a dark-haired girl asked.

Lili felt her face getting warm, but she stood her ground.

Yes.

The dark-haired girl appraised Lili from head to toe. You looking for a job? You want to be a whore, too?

Lili's hands grew damp. I need work.

I'll take you in to meet Josie. The tall redhead touched her shoulder. Don't pay any attention to Delia. She's not polite to anyone, not even her clients. I'm Katy. What's your name?

Lili, she mumbled and followed the redhead into a parlor crowded with gleaming golden oak furniture, red velvet couches, and pots of ferns in brass containers. In the corners of the room were life-sized statues of nude women. Katy led the way into a dining room through multi colored beads hanging in a doorway, reflecting the fading sunlight.

A woman wearing a deep pink, low cut gown sat at a round golden oak table, her dark, hair piled in curls high on her head. Papers were spread out and a ledger opened before her.

Josie, excuse me, but someone is here to see you. This is Lili. She turned to Lili and whispered, I'll be outside if you need me.

Lili hoped Josie would be easy to talk to and understand she didn't want to be like the girls outside. Her large brown eyes narrowed as she looked Lili up and down.

How do you do? Lili somehow managed to keep her voice level.

The madam smiled. Ah, we have nice manners, don't we? Her eyes twinkled. What can I do for you?

Lili told Josie she had just arrived in Cedar Creek had been looking for work as a cook.

A cook? Hired me a good one this morning. You're good looking enough to be one of my girls. I think I recognize your accent. Where are you from?

Austria.

Josie smiled. My homeland, a long time ago. I can't help but be curious. What brings you to Cedar Creek, alone?

My family has or had friends here.

Who?

Carl and Greta Schmitt.

Ah, yes. Josie nodded her head. They went to Chicago.

Then you know them?

Yes. Josie looked down and shuffled her papers. I came from Austria and have been friends with the Schmitt's for a long time. I sure do miss them. She paused. Lili, I'm sorry, I'd like to help you, but as of this morning, we have a cook.

Lili tried again. I can prepare all the Austrian foods.

Josie looked up and smiled. The cook I just hired will take care of everything. You sure you don't want to be one of my girls?

Oh, no, I can't.

Well, think about it, you know where we are. Are you staying at the hotel?

Lili bit her lip. Yes, I am.

Josie picked up her pen and smiled. Pleased to meet you, Lili, but you'll have to excuse me for now. I have work to do.

Lili turned and walked toward the front door. Katy sat on the couch in the drawing room mending a dress. Are you staying? she asked.

No, I'm not. Lili attempted to smile before rushing out the door into the street, bumping into someone, and losing her balance. Strong arms encircled her waist, keeping her from falling. She looked up into the serious face of the man she had seen earlier. He still held her. Strange, his strength and warmth made her feel safe, if only for a moment.

Thank you, I mean excuse me, Lili stammered.

She pulled away from him. He moved his arms in a gentle manner. Her breath caught.

The corners of his mouth turned up. No, excuse me. He stepped back.

Lili didn't want to show how this unnerved her. She tried to smile at him before returning to the hotel.

In her tiny room, her hand instinctively touched the gold locket she always wore. Opening it with care, she gazed at Mama and Papa. Her mother smiled the way she always did. Her father looked grim, as usual.

Why hadn't she waited for a return letter from Carl and Greta? Being so certain they'd be here for her, she'd talked her New York cousins into letting her come to Montana earlier than planned. Now what? The money saved for the homestead would dwindle fast. She needed work.

The saloon needed a barmaid. The chaotic rowdiness she heard coming from across the street frightened her, but she could work there for a little while, in hopes someone in Cedar Creek would need a cook soon.

The tall stranger had suggested Josie's, which angered her. Then later she ran right into him. Her heart tightened remembering his embrace. For the brief time he held her, she hadn't felt so alone.

If only she had stayed in New York and made sure everything was in order before getting herself into this mess.

Lili decided to inquire once again at the hotel for work. She headed downstairs to talk to the manager.

"Excuse me, I'm Lili Kohl. I just came today. Is there any work I could do at the hotel to help pay my bill?

The hotel manager frowned. Can't you pay your bill?

Yes, remember I paid in advance?

He nodded.

She took a deep breath to calm herself. It looks like I might be here for a while... and I need work.

He shook his head. I'm sorry, miss, but the saloon is the only place needing someone right now.

The mouth-watering aroma of fried potatoes wafted into the lobby from the hotel kitchen, reminding Lili she hadn't eaten.

What would Papa think? Working in a saloon! She had to do something, and soon. Looking at the Silver Spigot sign above the door, she crossed the dusty street before she could change her mind and entered the swinging doors. The bartender glanced up. He grinned a big I told you so.

So, you've changed your mind?

Lili gulped. I've never worked in a saloon. Apart of earlier today, this is the first time I've ever been in one. I'm willing to try. She tried to sound confident and keep from twisting her hands.

Tell you what I'll do. I'll give you a chance for a couple of days. The girl who has this shift hasn't showed up yet and we're starting to get busy.

Okay, I'll do my best.

Here's what you do. Take drinks orders from the customers, serve them, and collect their money.

How much are the drinks?

A bottle of whiskey is five dollars, and shots are two bits, I mean twenty-five cents. The guys will give you a tip for good luck when they're winning. Some of them like the feel of a woman, if you know what I mean.

Feel of a woman?

Yeah, the bartender stopped polishing the redwood bar and looked her in the eye. They might put their hands on your bottom, or someplace else.

Her jaw dropped. Mouth opened, she stared at him.

The bartender smiled. Most of our girls just laugh or shrug the guys off. It gets them bigger tips. Everybody needs money around here. He raised his eyebrows. Want to give it a try?

Lili could still smell the fried potatoes from the hotel. Hunger gnawed at her stomach. Yes, I do.

The bartender gave her an apron with pockets and starting change.

I'll keep track of what you order, and you can pay me once you've served a few tables and have more money.

Lili prayed she could stay away from the roving hands the bartender had mentioned.

She tied her apron on and picked up a tray.

Better start with the table in front of you. Those fellas need whiskey and are too busy with their game to come to the bar and order. Just ask them what they want. They'll tell ya.

Taking a deep breath, Lili stepped up to the table.

Would you like something to drink?

Yeah, bring us a bottle and five glasses, said a thin cowboy with a stack of money in front of him.

He's paying. One of the other players pointed at the man who had ordered. Better hurry up.

Lili thanked them and hoped she didn't sound too inexperienced. She gave the order to the bartender.

They said to hurry.

Be careful, learning to balance the tray takes time. If you drop one of those bottles, you're going to have to clean it up. Bad for business. Men won't be ordering drinks while you're working on the floor. You might get a few pinches, though. He winked.

She picked up the tray, which turned out to be heavier than she thought it would be. Once at the table, she realized she'd forgotten the glasses.

The thin cowboy yelled, Where's the glasses? Come on, girl, we're parched.

She hurried to deliver the glasses.

The thin cowboy pushed a few coins to her. You sure are a sweet little thing, but you've got to be faster. Keep an eye on us, cuz we're powerful thirsty.

Yeah, he's trying to get us drunk, so he can keep winning our money.

I'll try, Lili said, slipping the money into her pocket.

Her work was slow, and a few of the men complained. She sure didn't want to be on her hands and knees cleaning up spilled drinks and getting pinched.

Things went well all evening until one of the men grabbed her, throwing her off balance. The shot glasses filled with whiskey slid off the tray and right into his lap.

Yow! He jumped up knocking over the table. Drinks, money and cards scattered across the floor.

Everyone at the table drew their guns. They were pointing them at her.

Lili screamed.

Quiet, yelled the bartender.

Her heart pounded as she stared at the guns. She couldn't think or breathe.

Where's our no-good sheriff? Someone could get killed, a man yelled.

The tall stranger came out of nowhere. Okay, fellas, calm down. Put your guns away. Now, let's get this table up and cleaned off.

He glanced at Lili. Her knees buckled under her. She tried to smile at him, but saw the floor come up to meet her.

Chapter Two

When Lili opened her eyes, she saw a woman sitting by the bed watching her.

What happened?

You fainted, honey.

Lili remembered the tall stranger's shocked expression.

Now she lay on a narrow bed in a small room. She could see a kitchen.  How'd I get in here?

The deputy brought you in.

They pointed their guns at me, but someone told them to put them away.

Gabriel used to be a deputy.

A deputy?

He helped the sheriff keep law and order here in Cedar Creek. People called Gabe one of the best before the sheriff got himself murdered and we had all the trouble.

Lili sat up and surveyed her surroundings. This looks like the hotel.

"It is, and I'm the cook. Gabriel told me you should have something to eat. How about a plate