Page 94 of Falling

When I pull back, I’m embarrassed when my eyes fill with tears. Pappy’s brow crinkles up and he reaches out and squeezes my arm.

“Are you okay, dear?”

I give him a shaky smile. “I’m not my best today, sorry.”

“What’s happened?”

“I have to go back to Utah today. One of my emus died last night, and I need to see about the rest.”

“Oh, that’s awful. What can we do to help?”

“You’re helping right now, by being so kind.”

He waves his hand. “You’re easy to be kind to, tell me something I can really do.”

“I don’t know. I’m not used to asking for help, I guess. And yet, I feel like that’s all I’ve been doing since I got to Landmark Mountain. I invaded Callum’s home, me and my emu. I crashed Thanksgiving.” I laugh and roll my eyes. “It’s time I did something to repay everyone here who’s been so good to me.”

“Nonsense. I’ve seen the way Callum looks at you. He is not complaining one bit.” He laughs and it’s a full, deep laugh that comes from his fit belly. He leans in conspiratorially. “And if you crashed Thanksgiving, so did I.” His eyes widen. “You remember I’m not related to the Landmarks either, right? I’m a hanger-on because of my grandson, Jamison. But that’s what’s so great about the Landmarks, and pretty much everyone else around here too—it’s a welcoming place. If you decide to stick around, you’ll find a home away from home.”

Someone calls his name and he turns. I look too, and a group of cute elderly ladies sit at a table with a chess game.

“Looks like you’ve got a game to play,” I say, grinning.

He turns around to look at me, his cheeks pink. “I guess I better get over there. I’ve become the resort’s chess coordinator. I think my grandson just wanted to make me feel like I’ve got something to do, but…” He shakes his head and laughs. “They do really love their chess games around here though.” He lowers his voice. “I think they must not have had anyone to compete with before I got here.”

“I don’t think that’s it, Pappy.” I lean in and cup my hand around my mouth so only he can hear. “I think they just like your company.”

He laughs and pats my arm. “You’re so sweet, Ruby. I really hope you hurry back and that your emus are okay. I’m so sorry about the one you lost. Will you let me know if you think of any way I can help?”

“There is one thing.”

He nods.

“If I’m gone a long time…can you make sure Callum is okay?”

He takes my hand in his and looks at me so earnestly, I almost cry again.

“You have my word,” he promises.

“Thank you, Pappy,” I whisper.

He squeezes my shoulder and turns toward the ladies, who all titter in delight when they see him coming.

“Isn’t he something?” Scarlett says.

“He’s…incredible. I don’t blame those ladies for swooning.”

“I think he really is oblivious about it too. He thinks they just really love chess.”

“He mentioned that.” I laugh. “Sorry, I didn’t meet Albert and…who was it?”

“Vera. It’s okay. They’ll be around.” She pushes my small carry-on forward and sets it behind the front desk. “I askedVera to put your suitcase in my office, if that’s okay. She’s completely trustworthy.”

“Oh, that’s great. Thank you.”

She loops her arm through mine. “I was thinking…if you liked what I gave you, you know—that white lace number?” She whispers the last few words. “I can show you what we’re working on opening soon. Interested?”

“Very.”

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