Page 39 of The Ranger

His words touched her, but she didn’t know why. It was as though he’d spoken directly to her heart. How strange!

Pa entered the kitchen. “Good afternoon, everyone.” He took a chair and looked at the Bergs. “I’m Major Comfort, Maida’s father. I understand your parents used to live here.”

Vale launched into the story of his mother and father, and introduced Makama to Pa. Her father then turned his attention to Mr. Markhel. “And how are you, sir? It’s been a long time since you’ve been in Clear Creek.”

“It has. It is good to be back. I am looking forward to visiting with the Wallers and Dunnigans.”

“Grandma talks about you a lot. I’m sure she’ll be tickled to see you.” He smiled at everyone around the table. “Harrison said you’re joining us for dinner.”

“Yes,” Vale said. “Sadie invited us. You are most gracious for having us.”

Pa smiled. “Maida, hadn’t you’d better help your mother and grandmother?”

Disappointment stabbed at her, but he was right. She should go. “I will.” She drained her coffee, her eyes flicking to Mr. Markhel, then left her chair. “I’ll see you all at dinner.” Her eyes went to him again, and their gazes locked.

Makama asked a question, but she didn’t hear what it was. In fact, she was frozen to the spot, just like before. Oh no! What was she going to do? Pa would think she’d gone daft in the head and Grandpa would lecture her on the impropriety of it. But all she could do was stand and stare into the mesmerizing blue eyes of Mr. Markhel.

“Sweet pea,” Grandpa said. “Get going.”

A chill raced up her spine, then another, and she tried to talk, but nothing came out! What was wrong with her?!

Grandpa got to his feet. “Maida?”

She sucked in a breath and spun to him. “What?”

He looked her up and down. “Are you going to stand there all day?”

“No, sir.” She drew in a shuddering breath, then headed for the kitchen’s back door. She ran outside, across the yard, and straight to the back of her house. When she reached the back porch, she stopped and took a deep breath to calm herself. “What just happened?”

Another chill went up her spine and she hugged herself. “Why couldn’t I speak?”

She turned to her aunt and uncle’s house. What was it about Mr. Markhel that so drew her? Yes, he was... different. Not just in size but his presence. It was as if it were a separate part of him, a living thing. But that was silly. It was just a little infatuation. Maybe this was normal. She’d ask Mama.

Maida went inside, found her mother and grandmother at the stove, and scanned the work area for a task. Ingredients had been laid out for biscuits, so she got to work making dough.

No one said a word as they worked, and she knew Grandma Sadie and Mama wanted to make the dinner perfect for their guests. She wanted it to be nice too. She just hoped she could keep from staring at Mr. Markhel the entire time. If not, she was going to get a talking to before bed, and she didn’t fancy one of those. Then again, stealing a few glances at the handsome Mr. Markhel might be worth the trouble.

By the time the others came back to her family’s home, dinner was almost ready. Grandpa was laughing, as was Uncle Colin. Everyone appeared to be in a good mood. Except Mr. Markhel. He wasn’t scowling, exactly, but he didn’t look happy. In fact, he looked like he was in some sort of pain.

“Are you all right?” She didn’t know if it was appropriate to ask, but this was her house, and if the man needed something, she should get it for him.

He gave her an anguished look. “I am… hungry.”

“Then you’d better sit,” Vale urged, his voice cracking on the last word. He shoved Mr. Markhel into a chair then motioned for Makama to be seated. “We are eating in the kitchen, aren’t we? My parents told me about all the wonderful dinners they’ve shared with you in this room.”

“Of course,” Colin said. “This is the family dinner table. Our dining room is only ever used on holidays.” He sat and smiled. “I say, Mr. Markhel. Are you all right?”

“He’s hungry,” Maida volunteered.

Uncle Colin fidgeted in his chair. “Great Scott. Then we’d best get the man fed. I’ll help bring the food to the table.” He headed for the stove.

Maida gave Mr. Markhel one last look, offered a tiny smile, then followed. She brought the bowl of mashed potatoes and set it in front of him, as if that would make him start feeling better. Colin set a platter of chicken down, while Grandma Sadie and Mama brought the biscuits, salad, and vegetables.

After Grandpa said a quick blessing, the meal began. At this point, Maida didn’t care if she got a lecture or not. Mr. Markhel ate, but he looked like he was growing pale. Shouldn’t the food be helping? Even the Bergs were starting to give him anxious looks.

“Would you like some coffee or tea?” She offered, hoping that might work.

He closed his eyes a moment then looked at her. “Thank you, yes.”

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