Free Westward the Dream by Tracie Peterson, Judith Pella Page B

turned to offer her a smile. “We have a regular stipend from our parents. It’s not a problem. Brenton works with his photography, and I have very few needs after paying tuition and board. Believe me, the money isn’t a problem.”
    Caitlan shook her head. How could she explain to someone who had never had to do without what it was to take charity from strangers? How could she explain the pain it caused her just to know that she’d forced her family to use up the savings Kiernan had sent them in order to buy passage and bribe enough officials to get her out of Ireland in quick order?
    â€œI don’t take charity,” she replied softly. “I’ll have to work.”
    â€œNonsense!” Jordana countered. “I’m looking forward to us being together.” She reached out and touched Caitlan’s hand. “I want us to be great friends.”
    The younger girl’s obvious sincerity instantly disarmed Caitlan.
    â€œJordana always gets her own way.” Brenton leaned forward slightly and gave her a coy look. “You might as well give up.”
    â€œI’ve a bit o’ Irish stubbornness meself,” Caitlan said, grinning. She liked these Baldwins. They were unconcerned with her ragged appearance and filthy condition. They were openly welcoming and kind, and she hated feeling contrary.
    â€œThis isn’t a time to worry about such matters,” Jordana said, squeezing Caitlan’s hand. “We can discuss all of this after you’ve had a chance to bathe and eat and sleep in a real bed. I’m staying the weekend with you at the boardinghouse, so don’t be worried about the cost of the room.”
    â€œWhat about your school?” Caitlan asked.
    â€œI hate it there,” Jordana admitted, scrunching up her face. “It’s so very boring. Anyway, the semester is nearly over, and on weekends I can receive permission to take leave of the school. Brenton obtained that permission, and now I’m to stay with him at Mrs. Clairmont’s boardinghouse. So you see, it isn’t charity at all.”
    Caitlan looked first at Brenton and then back to Jordana. “I suppose there’s little choice. However, I’ll be needin’ a job.”
    â€œWhat kind of job?” Jordana asked, as though the idea were some sort of game.
    â€œI suppose housekeepin’,” Caitlan replied. “That’s really all I’m good for. I can sew and wash clothes, as well, but ’tis not me favorite job.”
    â€œYou needn’t work as a housemaid,” Jordana replied. “Why don’t you just allow us—”
    â€œI won’t be takin’ charity,” Caitlan said in a serious tone, as firmly as she could without being rude. “I already owe me passage here to Kiernan. I can’t be owin’ you as well.”
    Jordana appeared almost offended. “No one said you would be owing us anything.”
    â€œAnd that’s just how I’d like to be keepin’ it,” Caitlan replied. She realized she had pushed a bit hard and smiled. “I do want us to be good friends,” she added, “but if I’m to be on me own, I must earn me keep.”
    â€œWe know several families who might be interested in hiring you on,” Brenton said, seeming to understand better than his sister. “There are many fine families in New York, and if you are capable of doing a good job, you shouldn’t have any trouble earning your way. However, what shall we do about getting you to California?”
    â€œÂ â€™Tis a worry, to be sure,” Caitlan said, relaxing against the plush cushioning of the carriage. “I can’t be goin’ to me brother like this. I’ll have to earn enough money to pay him back and then some. Is it a far piece to go?”
    â€œJordana has an idea, but we’ve not given it much consideration,” Brenton admitted. “She thinks we should escort