A Broke Widow Tried to Sell Her Last Horse for $2—The Rancher’s Response Changed Her Life Forever
Chapter 13
The following autumn, Nathaniel asked Margaret to marry him.
He did not kneel.
He did not bring jewels.
He came to her porch after sunset and removed his hat.
“I have something to ask.”
Margaret smiled.
“You look nervous.”
“I am.”
“That is unusual.”
“I have never asked a woman to marry me.”
“You have never married?”
“No.”
“Why?”
Nathaniel looked toward the fields.
“I never met anyone I wanted to build a life with.”
Margaret’s smile faded.
He continued.
“I do not want your land.”
She laughed softly.
“I know.”
“I do not want your money.”
“I know.”
“I do not need another household.”
“I know.”
He looked at her.
“I want you.”
Margaret’s eyes filled.
“But I will not ask you to become someone else.”
She said nothing.
“I know you loved Thomas.”
“I did.”
“I know you still do.”
“I do.”
“I do not want to replace him.”
“You couldn’t.”
“I know.”
Nathaniel smiled.
“I am asking whether you would let me stand beside you.”
Margaret looked toward the house.
Anna watched from the window.
Daniel was pretending not to watch from the barn.
She laughed.
“Everyone is listening.”
Nathaniel glanced around.
“I noticed.”
Margaret turned back.
“I cannot promise you that I will never be afraid.”
“I don’t need that promise.”
“I cannot promise I will forget Thomas.”
“I would never ask.”
“I cannot promise to become a duchess or some grand lady.”
Nathaniel smiled.
“I have no title to offer.”
She laughed.
“You have half the valley.”
“Not half.”
“Most of it.”
“Perhaps.”
She extended her hand.
“I can promise one thing.”
“What?”
“I will not sell Belle for two dollars again.”
Nathaniel laughed.
Then Margaret said:
“Yes.”
