Innkeeper's Bride by Kathleen Fuller

Author:Kathleen Fuller
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published: 2020-01-14T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 13

After Selah fled to the kitchen, Levi turned to Jackson. “Sorry about that.”

He waved his hand. “It’s no problem. She must not be feeling well again.”

Levi glanced at the kitchen door. “Yeah,” he mumbled. “I’m sure that’s it.”

Jackson calmly sipped his coffee as if Selah hadn’t just splashed it all over the table. He picked up his orange twist. “This looks amazing.”

If all their guests were as easygoing as Jackson, running the inn would be a breeze. “Let me know if you need anything else.” Jackson gave him a thumbs-up, and then Levi went to the kitchen, making sure to open the door slowly. Selah’s back was to him, but he could tell she was covering her face with her hands. “Selah?” He walked up behind her. When she didn’t say anything, he touched her shoulder.

“Don’t.” She shrugged him off.

He took a step back, knowing he’d crossed a line. “Sorry.”

Her shoulders slumped, and then she turned around. “Don’t apologize, either. This is all mei fault.” She looked up at him, pain in her eyes. “I’ll get myself together, I promise.”

“Selah, I . . .” He wasn’t sure how to respond. To say she was touchy was an understatement, but she also seemed confused. “Whatever is going on, you can talk to me. I won’t break yer confidence.”

“Somehow I believe that.”

“Because it’s true.”

She backed up from him until she was against the counter. He took another step away from her, not wanting her to think she was trapped. “I think I’m just tired,” she said. “I get a little short-tempered when I don’t get enough sleep.”

Levi didn’t buy her excuse, but he nodded anyway. “Take the rest of the day off.”

Her gaze shot to his. “I don’t have to do that. I need to clear breakfast. I’ll be fine.”

“I know you’ll be fine, but you’re still taking the day off. Geh upstairs or back to Nina’s room and get some rest. I’ll take care of the food and dishes.”

“But—”

He crossed his arms. “Did you forget I’m yer boss?”

Her gaze averted, hiding her eyes. “Nee.”

“Then why are you arguing with me?” When she started to speak, he held up his hand. “Don’t apologize again. I think we’re all tired and out of sorts. Except for Jackson. He seems to be really enjoying his stay.”

“Thanks to yer familye.”

“And thanks to you. I know I said breakfast looks good out there, but it looks really gut. It takes a team effort to keep this place going, even if there’s only one guest. Don’t discount yer contribution.”

She nodded. “I won’t.”

“Now, you have yer duty schedule for the day.” He opened the door to the mudroom, giving her what he hoped was an encouraging smile. He didn’t want to be that stern with her, but he knew if he wasn’t, she’d continue arguing with him. “Hop to it.”

Selah paused, the lines of strain around her mouth lessening. Then they both stepped into the mudroom, where she took her coat from a peg before leaving. Just to make sure she complied, he watched out a window until he saw her going into the house.

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