Page 9 of Tank

Chapter 3

The Farm

Working the farm was hard, but it reminded her of when she was young and helped her grandpa out. Of course, when she was really young, she was little help, but she always tried. As she got older, he valued her help. At some point she even did chores on her own and that made him available for other things. She loved both her grandparents, but her grandpa was the one she was the closest to.

Her grandma did teach her to do the womanly things a household required, but Grandpa was the one that needed her help the most. He was also the creative one that told her the stories and set her imagination on fire. Many of the stories were from the Black Forest where he had been in his early youth, but his father had always told him the stories even when they had left and traveled to West Germany at the end of the war.

Those stories were full of magic and creatures that stretched her mind. Could they exist? She had found out many if not all of them did. Ariel had shared this with most of their family. Those not told were those who refused to hear. Or those that distanced themselves from the family because of the fear of the unknown.

She was neither drawn nor repelled by it. Of course, she’d admit some of those magic male creatures did attract her. Right now, Tank was like a magnet pulling her in. Jag on the other hand repelled her. There was something dishonest about him. He was untrustworthy and devious. That made her wish she’d never rented to him. Ariel needed to know as soon as she could find the time to visit her.

They’d worked hard Sunday but now it was Monday and Tank was back to work. It was funny that she missed him. Jag was a relief to be rid of for a while. The difference between the two men was unbelievable. Tank was sexy and easy to like. A hard worker, he did whatever was asked of him. He’d earned everyone’s respect, but Jag had not. She was also sure he had said he worked nights, but he was always here in the evening. Had she misunderstood or had he misled her and if so, why?

Missy went to town after breakfast and bought a load of fencing supplies and two gates at the farm store. More would be needed, but not just yet. That was enough for a day or two. Now she headed to Ariel’s. This issue with Jag must be addressed. Her place was nearly empty as one meal was finished and the other not yet begun. There was still food out, but only one or two people got it as they sat there and talked.

“You don’t care for Jag?” Ariel asked smiling. Not a good question since she already knew. “What has he done?”

“I feel he is looking for white wolves and constantly asks questions. He invites himself to meals and activities but only if he doesn’t have to work or help in any way. I’ll admit he paid last time for the meal.”

“I think the council sent him. He’s trying to earn favors for his kind. The male is not as bad as you think.”

“He’s selling us out for favors and that’s not bad?” She asked surprised.

“How are you and Tank getting along?”

“He’s a hard worker, easy to please, and enjoyable to be around. No surprise there.” Missy admitted.

“Good. Very good. I hoped you two could work something out. It will help both of you. That farm needs a great deal of work. Andi mentioned some items you may sell?”

“There are some. I also need to find some used bathroom items in good shape.”

“I have a shower in good shape I’d trade you. We put in a larger one in the rec area. It has a guest area. You know how crowded it can get.” Ariel observed.

“Can I see it?”

“Let’s go now and I’ll come out to your place tomorrow when Jag isn’t there, so it won’t get his mind buzzing.”

“You’re right. He tries to turn everything into a connection. He said he works nights, but I’m not sure he works at all. He seems to be around all the time.”

They walked out back to their shop and there it was. It was small and nothing fancy, but it shouldn’t cost much.

“Don’t look so worried. I’ll trade for something small. I might buy an item or two as well.”

“There are others I thought would come but they’ve been delayed.”

“You know there are several sayings about getting there quick. Barring tragedy, I’ll be there in the morning. Let’s eat lunch before you go. I’ll get someone to load the shower.” Ariel offered.

Lunch was good especially since they were there first. Others came in but they already had their plates full, so she didn’t care. They sat and ate but also talked about her plans. She’d not started the book and thought about doing a children’s book first.

“Grandpa told me many of those stories when I was little.”

“Your grandpa was a special man. I loved your grandma as well. That lady could cook some amazing things no one else seems to be able to.”

“I miss them every day. It’s true we all have those we miss.” Missy observed.

“You never stop completely, but as time passes the joy of having known them eases the pain of loss.”

“You truly believe that?”

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