“Doesn't it please you, Jed?”

“Have I said it didn't please me?” he retorted smoothly.

“Your looks say it.”

He let out a sudden furious oath. “Then my looks don't lie any.”

Fraser was stepping forward, but with a gesture Arlie held him back. This was her battle, not his.

“What have you got to say about it?” she demanded.

“You had no right to bring him here. Who is he anyhow?”

“I think that is his business, and mine.”

“I make it mine,” he declared hotly. “I've heard about this fellow from your father. You met up with him on the trail. He says his name is Fraser. You don't even know whether that is true. He may be a spy. How do you know he ain't?”

“How do I know you aren't?” she countered swiftly.