Page 21 of The Unbuttoned Ranger
“You don’t live alone?” CaDee asked.
“I’m talking about my shotgun, city girl. The boy? Three?”
“Four.”
“He’s small for his age.”
CaDee had heard that a time or two, but she didn’t want to talk about her son’s size.“My son and I drove all this way because Albert said we’d have a place to stay and I’d have a job. I’m a hard worker and don’t mind being on my feet.”
“You have a job, so don’t get squirrely.”
With a nod, CaDee relaxed some.“There won’t be any trouble.” At least she hoped there wasn’t.
“That’s fair. How much do you know about running a farm?”
“I guess Albert actually didn’t inform you of everything if you’re asking that question.”
Piper examined the sky then looked back.“Know the difference between a rooster and a hen?”
“Yes.”
“Then I guess you’re teachable,” she snorted.
“I’m a very fast leaner and I don’t mind getting my hands dirty,” CaDee said.“Where will Carsen and I be staying?”
“In the house. The dog stays outside. He looks like he could use a bath about as much as you could.”
CaDee started to argue, but she looked down at her hands and clammed up. She was covered in grease and dirt from messing under the hood of her car. Admittedly, she probably did appear a bit frazzled.
“Come on, let’s take you on a tour of the house before lunch.” Piper opened the screen door that squeaked loudly.
“Carsen, come inside now.” CaDee noticed he seemed particularly interested in one goat with black and white fur who seemed eager to get his attention. Milo remained close. Maybe CaDee had made the right choice to bring the dog along.
“Let the kid play. He couldn’t care less about this old place,” Piper said.
With a thread of hesitation, CaDee decided he probably would rather stay outside.“Stay there,” she told him.” She hoisted the bag over her shoulder.
“That the only thing you got?” Piper jutted her thin chin.
“We’ve never needed much.” She didn’t feel the need to explain any further.
The planked flooring creaked under her cheap dime-store sandals when she stepped into the foyer. There was something about the place that felt…comfortable.
A stone fireplace framed by reclaimed wood dominated the living room. The walls were covered with livestock photos instead of portraits. Quilted throws lay on a flowered sofa and chair, while an open, upside-down book and reading glasses on the coffee table suggested Piper had stepped away mid-read.
The scent of wood and pine lingered in the air.
CaDee stepped deeper inside the room, watching Piper refold a blanket.“Obviously, this is the living room.” She gestured for CaDee to continue down a short hallway.
The kitchen, the heart of the house, had the aroma of something simmering on the stove which made her mouth salivate. A loaf of fresh bread sat on the counter.
Sunlight poured in through big windows, filling the room with natural light. Flour dusted the butcher block island,while open shelves showed Piper's heirloom dishes and spices. Modern glass cabinets added a subtle modern touch.
“I’m guessing Albert didn’t explain the duties of the position?” Piper asked.
“No, he didn’t.”
“Can you cook?”
