Page 15 of Jack Raider

“Where did you grow up, Jack?” she asked suddenly.

“Not around here. I’m from New York,” I replied, keeping my tone casual. I didn’t want to go into my past.

She kept staring.

“Mable,” Eloise said gently, “I’m sure Jack doesn’t want to dive into his life story. Let’s go find that tree.”

“You’re right. Sorry for prying,” Mable said, softening. “I swear, no more questions. Let’s see the tree.”

We walked until the cabin came into view, its wide porch wrapped around like an embrace. Rocking chairs and a porch swing gave it a warm, inviting charm. Eloise’s face lit up.

“I love this place.”

Just then, Nate stepped onto the porch.

“There you are,” he said, smiling.

“Nate! I’ve missed you.” Grandma rushed to him, hugging him tight.

“I missed you too,” Nate murmured, holding her close longer than usual. I could tell he was taking in how fragile she seemed now. I thought the same earlier.

“This is the tree,” I said, pointing. “Did you say your grandfather carved their initials during their honeymoon?”

“Wow,” Eloise whispered. “I’ve walked past this so many times and never realized. Grandma, let me get a picture of you next to it.”

Before Grandma could respond, Mable walked up to me, grabbed my hand, then Eloise’s. “You two should take a picture together by the tree.”

“Mable, stop,” Eloise said, quickly pulling her hand free. Then she gently removed mine from Mable’s grasp. “This is Grandma’s moment.”

Changing the subject, she said, “Show me, Wolf. I want to check on him. How’s he doing?”

“He’s good. Stays inside unless he needs to go out. Come on in.”

Eloise stepped inside, pausing to admire the space. “It’s beautiful in here. Hi, Wolf! You look like you’re feeling so much better.”

Nate joined us. “Did Jack tell you he makes his own furniture?”

“Seriously?” she said, wide-eyed. “That’s amazing. You’re really talented.”

“Thanks,” I said with a shrug.

“I think I’m going to head back and rest before dinner,” Mable announced, hovering at the door. “You two can stay if you want.”

“Don’t be silly,” Grandma said, looping her arm through Nate’s. “We’re all heading back.”

“Don’t forget about the barbecue later, Jack,” Nate added. “Max will be firing up the grill soon.”

“I won’t forget,” I said, walking them out. “See you all later.”

As the door shut behind them, I leaned against the counter and let out a breath. Mable’s lingering stare stuck in my mind. It was like she thought she recognized me from somewhere. Probably just my imagination.

I opened the fridge, pulled out the fruit I’d prepped earlier, and began slicing it up for a salad, humming to myself as the afternoon sun filtered through the windows.

7

Eloise

“Mable,why on earth were you staring at Jack Raider like that?” Grandma demanded. “Lordy, I was about ready to slap you upside the head just to snap you out of it. What’s gotten into you?”

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