My Heart Knew (Dorado, Texas Book 3) by Carroll-Bradd Linda

Author:Carroll-Bradd, Linda [Carroll-Bradd, Linda]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Inked Figments
Published: 2016-11-05T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Five

“Mrs. Hawksen, I have to compliment you on the tasty shepherd’s pie.” Dylan had eaten two helpings of the rich savory stew topped with mashed potatoes. He glanced at the woman with reddish-blonde hair who seemed to always wear a smile. “That’s a favorite dish from my childhood, and I have missed it since then.” He rubbed a hand over his full stomach.

Smiling, Vevina shook her head and waved a dismissive hand. “Me housekeeper, Myrna, deserves yer compliment. I just chop and stir as she tells me.”

“Go on with ye. She’s learning just fine.” The older woman with black curly hair gave her employer a smile as she stood. She collected her husband’s plate and stacked it on hers. “Everyone ready for dried apple pie and coffee?”

The two young boys scampered into an adjoining room, tossing a ball between them.

Maisie reached for the dishes closest to her seat. “Let me help clear, Missus MacElroy. I need to move a bit after that wonderful meal.”

Dylan watched a couple of the cowhands followed Maisie’s progress around the table with avid gazes. He also noticed she had a smile or a whispered comment for each one she passed. Jealousy grabbed him in the throat, and he jerked, knocking his foot against a table leg. Pain shot through his ankle, and he couldn’t stifle a groan.

“Oh.” Wide-eyed, Maisie rushed to his side. “Dylan, do you need some willow bark tea? I asked Mother to prepare a batch before we left. It’s outside in the wagon.”

Conversations around the table hushed, and everyone’s attention focused their way.

His arm heated under her touch. Out of the corner of his eye, Dylan caught raised eyebrows and exchanged glances between Kell and Vevina. Probably at her familiar use of his given name. Wouldn’t do to start rumors. He was in this small town for only a few more days. Although that prospect didn’t hold the same excitement as it had a week ago. Once he signed enough of the ranchers to make a large drive to St. Louis, he’d head to Alba Ranch. “I could use a dose right about now. Thank you, Ma—uh, Miss Maisie.”

“I’ll be right back.” She hurried to the coat rack and grabbed her jacket then dashed out the side door.

“What a helpful person she’s being.” Vevina bounced little Maeve in her lap, but her somber gaze narrowed in Dylan’s direction.

“As well she should.” Dylan darted a glance around a table full of curious gazes, some friendlier than others. “There’s a funny story behind her actions.”

“Do tell.” Kell leaned back in his chair and folded both hands over his stomach. “We’re all mighty fond of Maisie…and her sisters.”

“She’s the cause of my sprained ankle. You all must have observed how impulsive and quick she can be. Which sometimes turn dangerous.” He waved a hand toward the door then let it drop to the table. “Several days ago, she ran into the livery just as I was dismounting. Cynbal spooked, and my foot got hung up and twisted in the stirrup.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.