The Heart of Thornton Creek by Bonnie Leon

Author:Bonnie Leon [Bonnie Leon]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781441239396
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group

Shortly after Willa’s return, Daniel and his father rode up and disappeared into the barn. A few minutes later, a weary Daniel ambled toward the house. He dusted off his hat and sat on the front steps.

Rebecca pushed out of her chair and crossed to him. “You look tired.”

“Right. But it was a good day. We managed to get the whole mob moved into the corrals.”

“Would you like something to drink? There’s mint tea.”

“No. I drank so much from the barrel down at the barn, it’s sloshing around my gut.” He grinned.

Bertram strode from the barn and up the steps. He didn’t seem to notice anyone except Willa. He moved toward her. “Ya look done in,” he said, his lined face showing concern.

“It’s just this heat—it’s insufferable with no breeze.”

Bertram rested his large hand momentarily on her forehead, then smoothed back her hair. “Take care ya don’t wear yerself out.”

“I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”

Daniel warmed to the exchange between his parents. If only Dad was considerate more often, he thought.

“I’ve got some paperwork to do,” Bertram said abruptly and disappeared inside.

Willa pushed out of her chair. “I’ll see if Lily needs any help.” She moved indoors.

Daniel turned to Rebecca as she sat in her chair. “How did you fare today, being on your own?”

“Everything was fine, all except for Callie being called home to care for her mother.”

“What happened?”

“Her mother’s ill.”

“Sorry to hear that.”

Rebecca sipped her tea. “I’m glad you’re back early,” she said, then tentatively added, “I missed you.”

“Missed me, eh?” Daniel asked jovially, trying not to allow the implication of affection to raise his hopes. “I was thinking about you too,” he added more seriously, glancing at the open land surrounding the house. “I’d surely rather spend the day with you than with a mob of bawling cows.”

“Well, that’s quite a comparison,” Rebecca teased. She set down her glass. “So Meghan Linnell didn’t find you today?”

“No, as a matter of fact, she didn’t. Does she distress you?”

“No. Of course not, but . . .”

“She’s nothing more than a friend, Rebecca.” Actually, she’s become something of a nuisance, he thought.

“Meghan feels more than friendship, I can assure you.”

Daniel wanted to keep the banter light but couldn’t help but wonder why a woman who didn’t love a man would be concerned about another woman. “You don’t trust me?” he asked.

“Of course I do.”

“Rebecca,” Bertram’s sharp voice called from inside.

Daniel could see Rebecca tense up, and immediately anger toward his father filled him. Why couldn’t he treat her more kindly?

His jaw set and eyes angry, Bertram pushed open the front door and marched onto the porch. “I understand ya gave Callie permission to leave the premises?”

Rebecca stood. “Yes. Her mother . . .”

“Yer not to make such decisions on yer own.”

“But, sir, Mrs. Thornton was gone and you were away.”

Wishing he could protect Rebecca from his father’s barbs, Daniel stood beside his wife.

Her hand trembling slightly, Rebecca brushed a strand of hair from her forehead. “Someone had to . . .

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