Choose Any Woman You Want, Cowboy,’ the Sheriff Said — There Was Only One He Was Looking At

Chapter 2

The bell’s sharp echo rolled down the dusty streets, bouncing off wooden walls and rattling windows. Hannah flinched at the sound. A man in a worn vest stepped into the square — the town crier. His voice boomed over the chatter.

“By order of the sheriff! All unmarried women are to appear at the gathering today. Men will choose their brides, so this town may prosper!”

A hush fell. Then whispers spread like fire. Women clutched their daughters’ arms, rushing them inside. Baskets were dropped. Washcloths abandoned. Doors slammed open, then shut again, as mothers pulled out their best ribbons and pressed dresses flat with trembling hands.

Inside her small cabin, Hannah’s mother spun around sharply. “You heard him. Fix your hair. At least look decent. Don’t shame me more than you already do.”

Hannah’s hands fumbled with her shawl. Her heart pounded. “But Mama — no one will — ”

Her mother’s glare silenced her. “You’ll go. Even if no man chooses you, you’ll stand there. Do you hear me?”