Page 66 of The Ranger

Bonding began when he carried Maida into the hotel. The few moments he held her was enough to send his heart to the moon and back. And that was his physical heart. But now, his inner heart had begun beating, and he wasn’t sure how it was going to react to Maida from now on. In truth, he didn’t know anything. And that frightened him.

He reached the hotel, went inside, and slowly approached the dining room. More than a dozen women chatted, laughed, and sounded like they were having a good time. He scanned the room for Maida, saw her sitting at one of the smaller tables by the windows, and noted her smiling at him.

He smiled back as his hearts reacted. One beat faster, while the other clawed its way up from somewhere deep within him. It became hard to breathe, but he would not be deterred. He stepped into the large room, went to a table for two at the opposite wall and sat. There was nothing wrong with him ordering some food. He was staying here after all. With any luck, he’d get to speak to Maida for a few moments before her relatives noticed. But just in case, he’d bring in some reinforcements. He looked around the room, spotted Grandma Waller, and waved her over.

* * *

Maida watchedMarkhel out the corner of one eye. He was speaking with Grandma Waller whose eyes flicked to her now and then. What were they speaking about? It wasn’t her, was it? But why would they?

“I’m calf-eyed, no doubt about it.”

“What was that?” Aunt Belle asked as she passed her table.

“Nothing.” She noticed Grandma Waller approaching and plastered on a smile. Maybe she could find out what her conversation with Markhel was.

“There you are, child,” Grandma said. “I think we should make a big banner to let everyone know about the dance.”

“Banner?” Maida thought about that. Wasthatwhat they were talking about? “But where would we put it?”

“In the usual spot between the saloon and the sheriff’s office.”

“Oh, yes. That would save us from having to run around telling everyone. But wouldn’t it be just as easy to have Preacher Jo tell folks come Sunday?”

Grandma pulled out a chair and sat. “Yes, but there’s folks that don’t always come to church on Sunday.”

That much was true. Families like the Joneses who lived a little over two hours from town, wouldn’t know unless they came to church or came to town during the week for supplies. There were other outlying farms and small ranches as well. “Okay, so what did you have in mind?”

“You and I can make the banner, but we’ll need some help.” Grandma made a show of looking around the room. “Someone tall would be nice.”

Maida’s eyes were drawn to Markhel like a moth to a flame. “I think I know someone.”

“Oh?” Grandma cooed.

“Yes, Markhel. I just found out that’s his first name.”

“Is it now?” Grandma said with raised eyebrows. “Well, let’s go ask him.” She stood, took Maida by the arm, and pulled her toward the table Markhel occupied. Rosie was just serving him lunch.

“Grandma, Maida,” Rosie said happily. “Irene and I will be getting the refreshments sorted out today, then start asking for volunteers. This is so exciting!” She bustled off leavening Markhel to stare at them.

Make that her. Maida’s eyes locked with his. “Markhel,” came out a breathy whisper, but she couldn’t help it. Good grief, she could barely talk!

“Markhel, we have a favor to ask,” Grandma said.

He nodded, eyes still locked on Maida’s.

“We’re making a street banner and need your help. Do you mind?”

He continued to stare, that is until Grandma kicked him in the shin.

He blinked and looked at her. “Yes. I can help.” He glanced between them. “Do you need help with anything else?”

“Oh, you have no idea,” Grandma drawled. “You being as tall as you are, you can help with a lot of things. We might not even need a ladder.”

Maida giggled at that, then quickly sobered, unsure if he’d take offense.

“I am happy to help.”

She smiled. “That’s good. Do you think you could help us paint too?”