Every time he says something like that, it confuses me because I can think of several things that are more important.
“Now, since we have a moment with nothing to do, and I know how rare that is, I have a few questions. You said you know your numbers and letters. How far did you go in school?”
“I was allowed to go for two years before Father pulled me out because of the work around the house. My older sister Odette tried to work with me afterwards, but none of it came easily for me and I’ve always struggled to make sense of it.”
“I will not push this on you, but if you would like, I could continue your reading and math lessons until you become comfortable. Eliza struggled with math too, so don’t think you are the only one.”
“I bet you never did.”
‘No, but I can’t make biscuits either. See? We all have our strengths and weaknesses.”
The arrival of our food cuts off our conversation, but as I cut up my eggs, I wonder how he always knows what to say to make me smile.
CHAPTER 12
LAUREN
The abundance of food on this table makes me giggle, especially since Grant is eating like it’s his last meal. When the young lady comes over to give him the check, he reaches inside his coat, pulling out a wallet I’ve not seen before.
“Keep the change, dear, and I thank you and the cook for a wonderful meal.”
“Thank you sir, I will relay your message to the cook. You and the Missus have a great day.”
She nods her head at me before walking off and Grant stands, offering me his hand to help me up from the table. We’re almost at the door when he takes my shawl out of my hand, wrapping it around my shoulders before we walk out.
“You keep this up and I’ll become spoiled.”
“Good, that means I have done my job.” He starts leading me down the wooden walkway.
“Where are we headed now?”
“Actually, several places. First, to the dress shop because I placed an order for more clothes for you the last time I was in town, and then to pick out that stove.”
I stop and turn, facing him with my hands on his chest. His huge form is so wide you can’t see a thing around him. “Grant, you don’t need to spend any more money on me. I have more now than I ever have.”
“So you have said several times.” He motions for me to turn around, his large hand a steady pressure in the middle of my back. As we walk, I see men nod their heads respectfully and girl’s eyes widen at his wild appearance. He stops us at a small shop I’ve never noticed before. Opening the door, he lets me go first since he has to turn sideways to get in. An older lady folding material, looks up.
“Well, … you did bring her in. You may still look like a beast, but at least you no longer smell like one.”
“Good morning, Beatrice. You did tell me to bring her in for measurements and to pick up the other things she needed.”
“I sure did! Now, we’ve got women’s business to attend to and I’m sure there are other things you can do for an hour or so.”
“I will return in an hour.”
When he turns to leave, I reach out, suddenly wondering what he wants me to do. “Grant?”
“What Little Mouse?”
“I … I … do you have to leave?”
Before he can answer me, Beatrice takes me by the arm, leading me away from him. My eyes follow as he walks out the door and suddenly all I want to do is run after him.
“Come on deary, Grant has things to do. Martha will get your measurements while we look through some of the pre-made dresses I have available.”
When I don’t answer, she looks back at the door, then back at me, before gently grasping my chin, making me look down at her.
“What’s your name, child?”
