“Why hello there, little lady,” a voice from behind booms.
I jump, not realizing there was anyone out here but us.
A man a little shorter than Zane, but just as solid, waves a hand… and he’s riding a horse. He’s wearing a cowboy hat, a winter coat, full chaps and a big grin.
He jumps down off his horse with ease, his snow boots imprinting the ground below, and tells ‘Butterscotch’ to stay. Thrusting a large hand toward me, he says, “I’m Frank, Zane’s father, you must be Sadie.”
I shake his hand, thankful that he’s friendly. “Hello, Mr. Lawless?—”
“Now, now,” he chastises. “It’s Frank. Mr. Lawless is my father.” He gives me a wink, then thumbs to his son. “This one givin’ you any trouble?”
“Aside from a walk in the woods, a history lesson on the regeneration of Christmas trees native to Wyoming, and the snowball fight we just had — that I won — he’s on his best behavior.”
Frank stares at me for a fraction of a second, then bursts out laughing, his hands slapping his knees. Of course we didn’t have a snowball fight, but if we did, I’m sure I would win. “She’s a keeper,” he says as he wipes tears from his eyes.
I can’t even imagine Zane Lawless doing anything fun like making snowballs, but I’m glad I made his dad laugh.
Zane gruffs. “If anyone had a snowball fight around here, it’s fairly obvious that I have a distinct advantage,” he drawls.
“I don’t know? What she may lack in height and brawn, she sure makes up for in attitude,” Frank says, still laughing.
Well, I’m glad someone around here finds me funny. This has been a tough crowd all morning. “I’m from Manhattan,” I explain.
“Ah,” Frank says, tipping his hat. “Well, I’m very pleased to meet you, Sadie. If there’s anything we can do to make your stay a little more comfortable, just let us know.”
“I’ll do that,” I say. “Thank you.”
“She’s stayin’ with Bailey.” Zane deadpans.
“Now, now, that won’t do,” Frank says. “To experience the full Lawless family traditions, the Lodge has been especially designed for our staff. We value our workers around here.”
“She’s fine,” Zane answers for me. “Plus, it’ll be one less bed to worry about for the other staff comin’ and goin’ over the holidays.”
“Oh, I may need a place to stay soon because Bailey’s parents come in for Christmas.” I waft over that, hoping it won’t be an issue.
“My son is practical,” Frank whispers behind the back of his hand. “But I insist you come to dinner on Christmas Day, that’s if you don’t have any other plans?”
“Pops,” Zane mutters.
I’m taken aback. He’s so warm and friendly — unlike his oldest offspring — it’s making me feel a little confused.
Frank looks between the two of us. “What? Sadie’s got no family here, it’ll be nice for her to spend some time with our family since she’s now part of it.”
He’s such a sweet man.
“Dad, she’s an employee, and her folks stay in Silver Pines every year.”
I ignore Zane. “Thank you, Frank, that would be lovely. I’m surprising my parents soon before their big trip. They’re gonna be thrilled having me so close this Christmas.”
“Why, that’s just the sweetest thing, you hear that, Zane?”
“Yep, standin’ right here,” Zane replies, looking less than impressed.
“Well, the more the merrier,” Frank enthuses. “Welcome to Alpine Falls, Sadie. I hope you’ll be happy here, and I’m sure you’ll fit right in.”
“I’m very happy to be here,” I tell him as he smiles, heading back to his horse. “I appreciate the opportunity.”
I can feel Zane’s eyes on me, he’s probably looking down his nose skeptically. I get he runs the place, but I’m not totally useless. And I also haven’t even been given a chance yet to prove myself. At least Frank isn’t judging me.
