He wasn't going to leave until she did as he told her, so she removed the lid and tipped the canteen to her lips. The water was cool and had a metallic taste. She took several swallows and lowered the canteen.
He nodded approval. "Good, now stick close to the wagons. I won't be far away."
She frowned. "Are you expecting trouble?"
He smiled wryly. "I always expect trouble. That's what keeps me two steps ahead of the opposition."
He turned his horse and sought out Pete. She watched them talk for a few minutes. Bordeaux filled the canteen and headed into the sand again.
Pete walked back to her, signaling to the other men to join them. When they were all together he addressed them soberly.
"Cassie, pull your wagon up beside Fritz. Davis, you and Royce pull in behind them. I'll follow you all. Keep your rifles ready and stay close to each other. If I holler, fan out and make a circle. Get those mules inside the circle of wagons and be ready for trouble."
Cassie could feel the color draining from her face. "Indians? Do you think they might attack?"
"Maybe not if we look like we're prepared." He frowned at her. "Cassie, if things get rough, you find Bordeaux and stay with him. You do everything he tells you to. You understand?" When she nodded he patted her on the shoulder. "I must have been crazy when I agreed to take a woman on as a freighter, but I didn't expect Indian trouble along this route. You're a mighty good cook - not to mention a good driver."
She gazed up at him. Pete was conservative with his praise, so she felt honored. "I'll be fine. I can..."
"I know," he interrupted. "You can take care of yourself." He patted her shoulder again. "You just do what I said."