She glanced toward their table and sure enough, Lani and her parents were focused on her unexpected companion. She turned back to him. “Liked that, did you?”
“Loved it. What else does it say? That can’t be the only thing.”
“They change it up for each holiday, but since August doesn’t have one, I guess weather makes a good topic. Supposedly it’s hot for this time of year. Anyway, we should go?—”
“Who have we here, Sara?” Cecily, senior member of the wait staff, hurried over, menu in hand. “I don’t believe I know this gentleman.”
“He’s Kieran Haggerty from Ireland.”
“Seriously?”
“Seriously. Kieran, meet Cecily, the best server I’ve ever encountered. Incredible memory.”
Kieran whipped off his hat and offered his hand. “How are you… ma’am?”
Sara pressed her lips together to keep from giggling.
“I’m just dandy, thank you, Kieran. Welcome to Wagon Train.”
“He was in Hannigan’s to buy a hat, just like me. Flew into Missoula this morning and drove down. I brought him over to meet my folks and get some food.”
“Then take a look at the menu, son.” She handed it over. “See if anything strikes your fancy. I’ll get it started while you go socialize.”
“The egg salad sandwich looks good.”
“Is it possible we could get it to go?” Her family was probably ready to leave and she was eager for this meeting between Kieran and Desiree. “I’d like him to ride out to the ranch with us, but I never asked if you do takeout.”
“Absolutely, and you’ll love Rowdy Ranch, son. I’ll put in your order. Would you like a pint of Guinness while you wait for it?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
He was a quick study, this Irishman.
“I’ll bring it to the table. You’d better scamper on over there, Sara, girl. Your sister just got to her feet. Looks like she’s ready to find out what’s what.”
“Thanks, Cecily. I see her.” Lani was on her way, brown curls bouncing on her shoulders, a polite smile on her lips andwhat-the-hell?in her eyes. “Hey, Lani, this is Kieran Haggerty from Ireland.”
She blinked. “Ireland?” Astonishment replaced her big sister’s protective expression.
“Yes, ma’am.” Kieran held out his hand. “How are you?”
“I’m fine, thanks. What brings you to?—”
“We met when he came into Hannigan’s looking for a hat. He has quite a story. After hearing it I decided he needs to talk with Desiree.”
“What story?”
“Let’s go sit. Mom and Dad need to hear it, too.”
When they reached the table, she introduced her parents as Vanessa and Harry. Kieran used his newfoundma’amon her mother, which made her smile, but she would have been okay with Vanessa. New Jersey residents weren’t steeped in the tradition the way folks were out here.
Her dad grabbed an extra chair and they made room for Kieran at the table between Sara and Lani. Cecily brought a mug of dark beer for Kieran and refilled everyone’s water glass. Satisfied that they didn’t need anything more, she collected the dessert plates and left.
Kieran hooked his hat carefully on the back of his chair, took a sip of his beer and launched into his explanation. Her sister and parents listened with almost identical expressions of sadness and sympathy, as if they had the same reaction she’d had, to draw him into a big hug.
When he showed them the postcard and photograph he didn’t pass them around or get them anywhere near hisGuinness. Then he tucked them away in his shirt pocket and picked up his beer. “And that’s why I came to Wagon Train.”
Her dad cleared his throat. “And your father?”
