Page 68 of The Ranger

They nodded, and Rosie was off for the kitchen.

Maida sat, unable to believe her luck. There was nothing Mama or Grandma Sadie could complain about with Mrs. Dunnigan and Grandma Waller sitting with them. They were simply four individuals having lunch together. A good thing too, as Grandma Sadie was fast approaching their table.

“Maida, what are you doing?”

“Having lunch,” she said innocently.

“We were hungry,” Mrs. Dunnigan barked. “So we’re eating.”

Grandma Sadie frowned. “We were going to eat lunch together, Maida.”

She tried not to sink in her chair. “I know, but Grandma Waller invited me and...”

“Oh, let the child eat,” Grandma Waller said. “Besides, I asked Maida to help me make a street banner to announce the dance. Mr. Markhel here was kind enough to say he’d help too. With his height, there will be no problem putting it up, and they can do the painting while I supervise.”

Mrs. Dunnigan gave Grandma Sadie a curt nod. “I’m supplying the paint.”

“Well, since it sounds like you have it all in hand,” Grandma Sadie said. “I’ll leave you to it.” She turned and headed back to the crowd of women still chatting around the larger table.

Mama stayed, eyed all four of them, then began to turn. “Get it done, then get right home.”

Maida held her breath. “You’re leaving?”

“In about an hour now that we have things figured out. Grandma, see that she gets home all right, will you?”

“Of course.” Grandma Waller grinned like a loon, then settled more comfortably in her chair. “I’ll see her home myself.”

Markhel’s mouth curved into a hint of a smile as Mama walked off.

Maida watched the three. Grandma looked mighty pleased with herself for some reason.

“I will see it done,” Markhel stated.

“Why thank you, Markhel,” Grandma gushed. “That’s very kind. Now Doc won’t have to hitch up our buggy. Unless you’d like to use it?”

“Whatever is most convenient for you, wise one.”

Maida watched their exchange. Grandma was beaming, so was Mrs. Dunnigan. She looked at Markhel. “What did you call her?”

“He calls me wise one,” Grandma said with a smile.

“That you are,” Mrs. Dunnigan said. “So, what do you call me?” She narrowed her eyes at him.

Markhel, a piece of chicken halfway to his mouth stopped and stared at her a moment. “Warrior.” He took a generous bite and chewed.

Mrs. Dunnigan’s cheeks went pink. “Is that so?”

His eyes brightened. “You fight with charm. And food. Kingdoms would fall at your feet should you be set upon them.”

Mrs. Dunnigan’s eyes went wide just before she frowned. “Flatterer.”

He smiled and took another bite of chicken.

Maida’s jaw went slack. Was he teasing her? He was always so serious.

Rosie brought their iced teas then retreated to the kitchen again. Maida sipped at hers and watched Markhel pick at his food. “Aren’t you hungry?”

“I am, but I wish to wait for the rest of you to get your food. It is better to eat with company.”