Emma's Journey 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

“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

“He ran his knuckle down the baby’s soft cheek. She reached out a small hand, and grasped his finger. So small, so vulnerable. A sense of power raced through him. This little girl was his to nurture and protect.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Davis licked his dry lips, trying hard not to fall apart. Like most men, the secrets of childbirth were something he had never intended to view firsthand. He didn’t mind being there back when it all started, but certainly this end result wasn’t something most men felt kindly about bearing witness to.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Before she could take a step, he lifted her and carried her into the house. “What are you doing? I can walk, put me down.” “It’s good luck to carry the bride over the threshold of her new home,” Davis said, grinning. “Have you looked at me?” Emma patted her stomach. “I’m no bride.” “Yes, you are, darlin’, you’re my bride and this is our home.” Then he kissed her gently and set her on her feet. “But,” he added with laughter in his eyes, “you’re a mite heavier than you were when we said those vows on the wagon train.” He ducked as she swatted at him.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Davis walked up behind her, enveloping her in his strong arms, and rubbed her stomach. “How’s my family tonight?” he whispered in her ear.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Emma stood and put things away in the wagon, when Davis heard her exclamation of dismay. Looking up, he saw her march from the back of the wagon. She stood in front of him, hands on her hips, frustration on her face. “Those nasty Indians took my corset!” Davis spewed the last bit of coffee from his mouth, choking on laughter. “Good. I always hated that damn thing anyway.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“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

“Woman, I don’t want to hear the name of that cursed place ever again. You understand me?”
― 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

“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

“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

“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

“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

“If Emma wants to dance with you, that’s up to her.” Davis said through clenched teeth. “I would like that, Nate,” Emma said, “since I won’t be seeing you after tonight.” “Oh, but you will.” He looked smugly at Davis. “Corporal Stevens and I will be accompanying your wagon train all the way to Oregon City when you leave in the morning.” Tipping his hat again, he turned and strolled away. “Sonofabitch.” Davis muttered to the soldier’s back.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

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

“Emma, dear, if you don’t know why it bothered Davis, then you haven’t seen the way he watches you. I think Davis must have been a bit jealous.” “Jealous?” She shook her head furiously. “Oh, no, you’re mistaken. Davis and I married because I basically had no choice. He doesn’t feel anything for me but friendship.” “Well, don’t be so sure of that. Just give it time. You’ve been sick almost since you got married.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I hate to break up this little reunion, but I’d appreciate you removing your hands from my wife,” Davis drawled.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“I have money Peter received when he sold the farm.” Davis shook his head, his lips tight. “Forget that money. Put it aside. If we need supplies, or if you need anything for yourself, I’ll give you money.” She drew back, staring at him. “Don’t be silly. Why shouldn’t I use my own money?” “Emma.” His tone brooked no argument. “I am your husband, and I will feed and clothe you. Now I don’t want to hear any more about it.”
― 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

“Emma kept her head turned away while he fumbled behind her. Just before he left, he reached over and gave her a pat on her rump and squeezed. Heat flooded her. Goodness, he certainly was different from Peter.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Darlin’ you gave me a scare that time.” Davis spoke softly into her hair.”
― 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

“She smiled at him, then returning her gaze to her lap, picked at a loose thread in her apron. Davis put his warm hand over hers to stop the movement. Once she stopped, however, he kept his hand there.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“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

“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

“Let me ask you something.” Davis took a sip of his coffee. “Is the thought of marrying me so horrible that you’d rather suffer through all this?” She inhaled deeply, fighting the tears rising in her eyes. “I have nothing against you personally. Truly I don’t. You seem like a nice enough man, but I really don’t know you. However, that aside, it is my intention to return to Indiana when we reach Oregon. So you see I can’t get married. Not to you, not to anyone.” Davis put his cup down and reached toward Emma. He put his fingers gently under her chin, turning her head until he looked directly into her eyes. “What makes you think you’ll be able to get back to Indiana once you reach Oregon?” “I’ll hire someone, sell my wagon, and do whatever I need to. I will go back to Indiana.” Her words were not as forceful as she intended. Looking directly into Davis’s eyes with the firelight dancing in front of them made it difficult to catch her breath. Her heart pounded, but she attributed it to her annoyance at having to explain herself. “Ah, darlin’, you won’t be able to do that. Once you’ve finished this trip, believe me, there is no way you’ll want to set out again.” He began to slowly rub his thumb over her chin. “I hear Oregon is a fine place to settle.” “I want to go back to Indiana.” Emma jerked away from his touch. “I was happy there.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“Let me ask you something.” Davis took a sip of his coffee. “Is the thought of marrying me so horrible that you’d rather suffer through all this?” She inhaled deeply, fighting the tears rising in her eyes. “I have nothing against you personally. Truly I don’t. You seem like a nice enough man, but I really don’t know you. However, that aside, it is my intention to return to Indiana when we reach Oregon. So you see I can’t get married. Not to you, not to anyone.” Davis put his cup down and reached toward Emma. He put his fingers gently under her chin, turning her head until he looked directly into her eyes. “What makes you think you’ll be able to get back to Indiana once you reach Oregon?” “I’ll hire someone, sell my wagon, and do whatever I need to. I will go back to Indiana.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey

“You all right, darlin’?” Emma scowled. “Yes, I’m fine, Mr. Cooper, and don’t call me ‘darlin’.”
― Callie Hutton, Emma's Journey