Chapter 5Adam’s gaze fixed on the newcomers. There was something odd about them, and then he realized they both wore the same red and black checkered shirts and grey hats. One rider dismounted and came forward. Adam was glad most of his face was hidden by his hat. The rider was a woman, lean and athletic. It was only as she drew close that Adam saw the slight curves of her figure. Auburn hair tumbled from under her hat and curled down to her slim shoulders. She knelt down next to the body.
“What happened to him?” she asked brusquely.
“Seems the water in the through is bad, ma’am,” Madison said, tipping his hat as he spoke.
“My name is Ellen, not ma’am.” She glared at Madison as if daring him to say more.
Adam smirked and then looked at the other rider who’d dismounted. To Adam’s surpri
