It was turning out that Hance was more knowledgeable about this spot than he’d let on, more so than anyone else. Ivy’s question echoed all the questions Jericho had been asking himself. How had Hance gleaned the information? Had he heard about it from Confederate groups or outlaws who might have used the cave? Was it possible he’d moved to the area for the very purpose of finding such a treasure?

“If there’s a treasure, maybe it ain’t Spanish gold. Maybe a group of Irregulars hid some gold.”

“Maybe. But even that’s a long shot.”

“You’re such an optimist, Jericho. What would the world be like without your cheery outlook?”

He snorted but kept on searching. For her sake. She wouldn’t be satisfied until they checked every inch of the place.

They scoured each rock and crevice but could find nothing that indicated a treasure had been hidden there—either by Utes, Confederates, or outlaws. Finally, Jericho sat down and leaned against one of the stones forming the body of the snake. The fire was only a tiny flicker of flames but gave off enough light that the discouragement etching Ivy’s features was obvious.

“You should rest.” He patted the spot on the ground beside him.

Expelling a sigh, she crossed and lowered herself beside him. “Maybe God’s telling me I’m taking the easy way out by trying to make good on stolen gold instead of earning my land the honest way through hard work and sweat.”

She reclined against the rock next to his, stretching out her long legs and fixing her split skirt so it covered her modestly. Just the motion reminded him of how womanly she was and set off a chain of explosions inside him.

They were together. Alone. Without anyone to interrupt them this time.

He swallowed hard, crossed his arms, and stared straight ahead.

She fidgeted with a loose thread on her skirt, folded her hands, and then plucked at the thread again. “After the other night, I’m surprised you noticed I was gone from church.” Her statement was quiet—and surprisingly devoid of anger. “Didn’t think you’d be paying me any attention and would be ridin’ clear ’round me as far as you could go.”

Yes, of course she was thinking about their last parting and wondering why he was following her when he’d told her she was better off without him.

How could he possibly explain things to her when he couldn’t figure it out for himself?

“Just because I can’t have you doesn’t mean I’m able to stop looking at you.” The second his words slipped out, he wanted to smack himself across the head. What was he doing? He couldn’t lead Ivy on, not again. He didn’t want to keep on hurting her.

She didn’t move.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.”