Page 100 of First Bride to Fall
“Wow, you look nice.”
“Thanks.”
He studied her cardigan. “You knit that?”
“Yeah.”
“Great job.”
She giggled. “It’s only great because this was the fourth time I tried to make this pattern. My first three cardigans were major fails.”
He chuckled. “Well, this one looks amazing. And hey, you’re walking normally.”
She smiled softly. “Thanks to you.”
He blew out a breath. “Look, Nell. About yesterday.”
“Yeah?”
“I mean, it was really thoughtful of you to clean the cabin and chop that wood, only…” His eyebrows rose. “I hope it wasn’t too much for you.”
“Too much? No.” She shook out her hair. “Just don’t expect that kind of service every day.”
Something glimmered in his eyes, but she couldn’t quite read it. “I won’t.” He poured her a mug full of coffee from the French press. “Want almond milk in that? I’m sorry I don’t have regular milk or cream.”
Dietary restrictions, hoo. She couldn’t believe he’d invent all of that on purpose. “No thanks. Black is fine.” She took a sip and set down her mug. “I’m sorry you’re so limited on what you can eat. That must make it difficult for you when you camp and such.”
“Oh no, not really. I can pretty much get what I need in town.”
She shrugged, deciding to needle him. “Hmm. Yeah. I guess McIntyres’ Market carries just about everything. Seems they even carry black walnuts.”
His ears turned red as he stirred the grits. “They do.”
Uh-huh. “So, about Robby—”
His chin jerked up. “Yeah, what about him?”
“I’m really proud of you and your progress, Grant.”
“Progress?”
“Last night, you know.” She nodded toward the refrigerator. “You finally came around and ate some poultry.”
His eyebrows knitted together. “Uh no, not the chicken. Like I said, it was just the noodles—and the sauce.”
“You’re sure? Because I wouldn’t fault you for taking one tiny nibble. Nobody would after all this time. Except…” She grimaced. “Maybe him.” She made a pitiful little crowing sound.
Grant’s eyes grew huge.
“He might still be out there, you know.” She sighed. “Robby.”
“Doubt that. It was such a long time ago.”
“My sisters were crushed when they heard the story. They said to tell you they’re sorry.”
He did a double take at her, then focused back on the stove, adjusting the gas flames on the various burners. “Oh. That’s nice. Very kind of them both.”
“Misty wants to know how old he was.”
