Chapter Seven
Thomas watched herpick at her food, disliking the fact she was so anxious.He began to wonder if it was him who made her feel that way, or if it was the whole situation.He knew a lot was new to her, and he wanted to make the transition as easy as possible.
She ate half a bowl of soup and only one-fourth of the sandwich before pushing the plate away.He wanted to encourage her to eat more, but he didn’t want to push her too much so soon, afraid she’d try to run.
“If you’re done, let’s go for a walk.It’s really nice outside,” he said.
Angel nodded, stood, and grabbed her dishes.He followed with his own plate and bowl.
“That was delicious, Daisy, thank you,” she said.“Can I help with the dishes or anything else?’
Daisy smiled and shook her head.“Not right now.You go with Thomas and let him show you around.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
Thomas took her hand.“Let’s get your shoes on.”
“They’re still upstairs,” Angel said.
“Go on up and get them, and I’ll wait for you down here.”
She nodded and started to run up the stairs.
“Slow down,” Thomas yelled.
He smiled when she froze and then walked up the rest of the steps sedately.
It was less than a minute before she came back to him.He took one look at her shoes, with tears and holes in them, and knew before the day was done, he planned to order her some things.With time, he’d add more, but he didn’t want to overwhelm her, and he knew she wouldn’t feel comfortable taking things from him.
Thomas held her hand the whole time he showed her around.He could tell how nervous she was and tried his best to put her at ease.He was pleased to see a smile on her face when Jaxx ran up to her with a happy bark.Angel got down on her knees and hugged the large dog.She pressed her nose into its neck and then grinned up at him.
“He smells so good, and he’s so soft.”
“David knows dogs.He’s trained the ones we have here at the ranch.The two we have now have been able to assist us with the cattle.It’s helped tremendously,” he said.
“I wonder if Jaxx can help?”she asked.
“I’ll see what David says,” he told her.
Angel hugged the dog one more time before standing.He was pleased when she automatically took his hand without him prompting her.
They spent the next few hours outside.He showed her all the buildings and introduced her to his men.When he showed her the garden, her face lit up.
“I know how to do this,” she exclaimed.
“That’s wonderful, Sweetheart.I know Daisy has trouble keeping up with it.Do you know how to can, too?”
She nodded.“I really like it.”
