An Unconventional Lady by Cynthia Hickey

Author:Cynthia Hickey
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2014-09-21T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 13

“You make a good cup of coffee,” Sean told Annie. “Even on a hot summer day, it’s a welcome drink. After my travels to the farthest corners of this fine state, your pretty face makes me feel at home.”

“Thank you. Have you been preaching to the Indians?” There was no point in telling him every pot tasted the same, whether she made it or someone else. The restaurant was emphatic about having every detail perfect...even the coffee.

“Yes. They’re receptive for the most part, although I fear they are mainly humoring me. I’m planning on attending the local church this Sunday. I’d be honored if you’d accompany me.”

How could she say no, when she’d be at church anyway? Thankfully, she was spared giving her answer when Dallas waltzed in. Why didn’t he drink his coffee with Mother? It was free over there.

She found her answer when she glanced sideways at the simpering Dottie. How could Annie forget that embarrassing revelation the night before?

“Why don’t you sit in Dottie’s section?” she said as he came and sat in hers. “She appears to be waiting for you.”

Dallas didn’t turn his head. “I have no desire to sit there.”

“Then why didn’t you have your coffee at the boardinghouse?” Annie regretted her snappish tone the moment the words left her lips, but it was too late to pull them back. “I apologize. It’s none of my business.” Goodness. If Miss Cartwright heard her, she could be terminated on the spot.

“Your mother and Mr. Harris are lost in each other, and I felt like the third wheel.” He pressed his lips together. “But if my sitting here offends you, I can move.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.”

Sean’s gaze moved from her to Dallas and back again. His eyes widened. “You two seem to be at odds with each other. Is there something I can do?”

“Tell her to stop wearing that split skirt.” Dallas set his cup down hard enough for some of the liquid to splash out.

“Tell him to mind his own business and learn to accept people the way they are!” Annie set down the coffeepot and stormed away.

“Dottie, please cover for me,” she said as she passed. “I’m not feeling well.” She pushed through the kitchen and hurried outside, not stopping until she reached the rim of the canyon.

Of all the infuriating, small-minded...well, a good Christian woman couldn’t really voice how Annie felt at that moment. Tears stung her eyes, and she swiped the back of her hand viciously across her face.

She shouldn’t care what Dallas thought, but she did. She sat on a bench provided by the hotel so guests could view the canyon’s beauty at their leisure. Taking deep, slow breaths she waited for God to calm her.

Thankfully, His peace and a reassurance of His love and acceptance didn’t take long to dry her tears. She had a job to do, and regardless of whether she liked Dottie or not, it wasn’t fair to leave the girl to do all the work.

“Annie?” Miss Cartwright bustled toward her.

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