Callie Hutton > Quotes

“If you’ve finished with my wife’s hand, Hale, I would like her to have it back. As I said, we have things to do.” He tightened his arm around Emma, and with a stiff nod walked her off. “Why are you always so rude to Nate?” Emma cast him a glance as they walked back to the wagon. “I’m not rude, he’s rude. I don’t know about Indiana, but where I come from a man doesn’t hang onto the hand of another man’s wife.” He scowled and walked even faster. “But Nate’s an old friend. He was just being sociable.” Davis shook his head and snorted. Emma smiled. Maybe Sarah had been right, and Davis’s feelings were more engaged than she’d thought. Then her stomach clenched. She couldn’t allow that to happen. When the wagon train reached Oregon, she was going back to Indiana—with or without him.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I’m not longer a ‘girl.’ I’m a grown woman with a husband whom I love and who loves me. We have a life, and a beautiful daughter. Now turn this wagon around. I want to go back to my home. I have no intention of going to Indiana with you. This shotgun has one more shot in it, and I will use it if I have to.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Feeling extremely embarrassed, she tried to ease herself away from him. “Where ya going, darlin’?” Davis mumbled into her ear as he licked the outside of it. “Um, it’s time to get up.” She continued to ease away from him and the sensations he elicited, but his arm remained firmly around her middle. “Please, we need to get up. I have to start breakfast and you need to get the oxen ready and. . .” He silenced her litany of chores with a kiss. Oh my, first thing in the morning, too. His fingers moved to her breast to circle the nipple teasingly. She jerked at his touch and he chuckled into her mouth. “It’s daytime!” She gasped, and put her hand between them to push him away. “All right, Mrs. Cooper. We’ll leave this for later.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“She glanced at Davis to see him quietly staring at her. Startled, Emma put her hand to her stomach to quiet the butterflies that seemed to have taken up residence there. “Oh, Mr. Cooper, I thought you were still asleep.” Once again her voice sounded breathless to her ears. “Well, did you?” Davis studied her with a slight grin and a twinkle in those strange blue eyes. “Did I what?” One bow arched as he regarded her intently. “Find what you were looking for?” “Mr. Cooper.” She raised her chin up. “I was merely making sure there was nothing in your saddlebags that might endanger our trip.” Heat rose from her stomach, burning her face. She quickly looked down, her stiff fingers fumbling with two tin cups. “Well, ma’am, since my gun is here beside me, what could be in my saddle bags that would endanger our trip?” His voice hitched like he swallowed laughter.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Could he spend the rest of his life loving a woman who would always hold him at arm’s length? Who he would always suspect wished another man in his place?”
― Callie Hutton, The Lady's Disgrace

“Mr. Farnsworth is not here, but I assume you've come to tell him that you do not wish to purchase the townhouse?"

"Not at all." He took the seat next to her and turned in her direction. "I find the house is perfect for my needs."

Her jaw tightened. "It is perfect for my needs."

A Rose for Laura, release date 9/30/2021”
― Callie Hutton

“How long are you going to keep this up?” “I’m fine, really, I’m fine. I just need a few minutes, and maybe while we take a break, I’ll get some of the breakfast I missed and sit for a while.” She attempted a smile, not sure she quite made it. “All right, I’ll let you be.” Davis started back, then turned. “Oh, just one more thing, darlin’.” “What?” Emma said, suspicious of the grin on his face. “You might want to wipe the mud off your face.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Ellie, the eleven-year-old who'd been her papa's favorite, wiped the tears from her freckled cheeks, her voice trembling slightly. Tori’s insides twisted. So easy to feel sorry for the little girl. “No, darling, we won’t have a place to live if we stay here. The letter came from the bank today. We have”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love

“Joseph was thrilled to know the smartest child ever born resided at Manchester House. With all the babe had accomplished in his short life, he would no doubt be speaking at the House of Lords before he was out of nappies.”
― Callie Hutton, The Lady's Disgrace

“I wonder why the mountain men’s wives don’t seem to mind them drinking so much and dancing with other women?” Emma’s propped up her chin with her fist, her elbow resting on her knee, as she watched the goings-on. Davis grinned. “You see the size of those men? I’m sure they do whatever it is they want to do. Most Ute women tend to be easy on their men. Besides, not everyone has an exemplary husband such as myself.” She slanted him a look and smirked.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I’ve noticed I seem to make you nervous,” he said, staring straight ahead. “Do you think you have cause to be afraid of me?” He glanced over at Emma, but she kept busy smoothing her dress, messing with her bonnet ribbon, and folding the napkin. At least she wasn’t picking at that apron. “No, not at all. Why would you think something like that?” She stood and began to brush her dress but a red blush crept up her neck and made a good effort to reach her hairline. “Okay, if you say so.” Davis”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I’m here, Tori,” he whispered. “And I always will be.”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love

“comfortable. There’s no need to mention anything about out”
― Callie Hutton, Stephen's Bride

“He was stunned by his reaction to this solider who sniffed around his wife. He’d never been the possessive, jealous type. Why the man’s mere appearance made his blood boil bothered him. In truth, he knew Emma still harbored the idea of returning to Indiana. And having a friend from home, who appeared ready to whisk her back at any moment, chafed at him. Although they’d spoken their vows before God and man, he didn’t feel confident enough that Emma was committed to them staying together. Well, he would fight for her. She was his wife, and exactly what he wanted in a mate. He had no intention of allowing some spit-shiny challenger move in and sweep her away from him.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Caroline. How he loved that little bundle of joy. He did not mistake how her eyes glowed when he picked her up. For the first time since he’d lost his mother and sister in the fire, he felt like he belonged to someone. Someone who loved him.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I don’t have to be able to see you to feel your disapproval, you know.” Tristan finally broke the silence. The two hour carriage ride had been painfully quiet. Tristan leaned his head against the back of the leather seat. “I have my reasons, and I don’t intend to share them with my valet.” Ellis grunted, but remained quiet. “She is better off without me.” Four beats later, Ellis responded. “There is no reason to share your thoughts with a mere valet, my lord.” “I cannot give her the life she deserves.” “As you say.” “Her ladyship seems to think my blindness makes no difference.” “Please pardon the pun, my lord, but how very insightful of her.” “I shall fire you when we reach London.” “I shiver with anticipation.” How was it he could not seem to even have his own employees agree with him? And why did he permit such insolence? “May I make a suggestion, my lord?’ “No, you may not.” “I suggest you take a day or two to ponder your actions, and then perhaps send for her ladyship.” “Definitely being fired when we reach London.” “I shall look forward to my new duties.” Tristan tapped his foot, boredom setting in. “Did you pack any books? Perhaps you can read to me to pass the time.” “I noticed an open copy of One Thousand and One Nights in the library this morning, but since I know her ladyship was reading it, I left it there.” “Her ladyship was reading it to me,” he bristled. “Ah,” Ellis said, with no regret in his voice. “If only her ladyship were with us now. With the book…” “Never mind. I could use a nap.” “Yes, my lord. A nap might restore your good humor.” “When I fire you, there will be no reference.” “I have no expectation of one, my lord.”
― Callie Hutton, The Baron's Betrayal

“Boy, I told you to stay away from the Thorpe wagon. If that unreasonable woman wants to do everything herself, then so be it.” Ezra spat out a wad of tobacco from the side of his mouth. Hands fisted at his hips, Davis glared at the wagon master. “This can’t continue. That woman is worn out.” “That woman is stubborn, is what she is.” Ezra’s face took on a red hue. “So what are we going to do, let her kill herself trying to do it all?” Davis leaned in, his jaw clenching.  “She’s the one who decided she could do it all by herself. Let her stew a bit,” Ezra shouted back. “Stewing is one thing, this is inhuman.” “Why are you so all fired up about her? It’s you she’s refused to marry.” “Did you ever think it was too soon after her husband’s death? Maybe she just needs a breather.” “When we’re out here on the trail, there’s no time for breathers. She needs a man to help her with that wagon, and until it sinks in, you stay away from her.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“We belong together. You know it, and I know it. Please give it time, honey. We’ll work it out.”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love

“We’re as much alone as if we were in the wagon. Relax, let me love you.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Darlin’ you gave me a scare that time.” Davis spoke softly into her hair.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“fresh coat of pain. The fences were mended,”
― Callie Hutton, Stephen's Bride

“She rose before dawn to bake cookies, pies, and cakes for the restaurant, then washed and dressed for school. By the time she came home in the afternoon, she was exhausted. Then after supper, she spent at least two hours grading papers, going over the next day’s assignments, and checking homework.”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love

“Davis, no!” Emma suddenly shoved him away. Dazed, he looked at her. “What−why?” He shook his head as if clearing it. “Nate.” Emma motioned with her head toward the underside of the wagon. “Nate, what?” Davis asked. “Nate’s up there. He can hear everything we do.” She smoothed her hair back, and straightened her nightgown, like a frightened virginal schoolmarm. “He can’t hear anything. We’re down here, he’s up there, and there’s a wooden floor between us. Now stop being silly and come back here.” He reached for her again. Emma moved backwards, holding the neckline of her nightgown in a bunch. “I can’t. I feel too funny. Please?” Davis groaned and lowered his head into his hands. “Emma, you’re killin’ me here.” He sighed and looked into her face, his expression softening. “Honey, you’re my wife. I won’t force myself on you.” He slanted her a look. “Can I try to change your mind?” She shook her head. He dragged his hand down his face. “All right, I can deal with it.” Pulling her to him, they lay down, Davis on his back, with Emma cuddled in the space between his arm and shoulder. ”But that arrogant soldier better heal himself fast,” Davis said as he got comfortable. “He’s been sticking in my craw since I first set eyes on him in Fort Laramie.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“You won’t be sorry, I promise.” Davis ran his palms up and down her arms, resting his wrists on her shoulders. “I would never raise a hand to you, and although I don’t have much, everything I have will be yours.” “Will you take me back to Indiana?” Head down, she mumbled to her lap. “Sorry, darlin’, I’m heading to Oregon to settle. As my wife, you’ll go with me and stay there.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“He wrapped his arms around her and rested his chin on her head. When had Emma become so important to him? He knew he had been acting the fool with Nate, but it didn’t occur to him until now that he was afraid of losing her. No longer could he pretend she merely fit in with his plans. Somehow this spirited, soft, loving woman had wormed herself into his heart. And he was determined to keep her right there.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Honey, this has to end. We’re traveling to a rough part of the country. Things happen. Indians, rain storms, animals, outlaws.” He gestured with his arm in the general direction of the river. “And river crossings. I can’t have you falling apart every time something frightens you. You’re a grown woman. Carrying a child. It’s time to face your fears.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I’m so sorry, my love. I’ve failed you again. Not only failed you, but drove you from your own home and right into danger once more with my ridiculous accusations.” He brought her cold hand to his cheek.”
― Callie Hutton, The Lady's Disgrace

“Much obliged for your help, Hale, now get your hands the hell off my wife.” “I’m only comforting her,” Nate shouted back, “she’s shivering from the cold.” “If there’s to be any comforting going on, I’ll be the one to do it. Now remove your hands.” Nate slowly removed his arm and Davis dragged Emma over to his chest. “Thanks again, Hale, I’ll take over from here.” Emma straightened. “Yes, thanks, Nate. We’ll be fine now.” With tightened lips, Nate nodded and slid off the wagon seat to the ground. Mounting his horse, he rode off, leaving them sitting in the pouring rain.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I’m sorry, son. We lost the baby.”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love

“Tori turned her face into Jesse’s chest. She inhaled deeply, comforted by his smell. It didn’t surprise her Rachel knew. Why did she worry about everyone gossiping? Those who mattered to them wouldn’t condemn, and those who were true friends wouldn’t care. How foolish she’d been.”
― Callie Hutton, A Run for Love