Page 42 of A Lady for Luke

“There she is now," Nick said, as her booted feet appeared at the top of the stairs. He’d recognize the sound of her footstep anywhere.

Luke let out a deep breath. It was the first sign the man was nervous. Was he worried his sister might not like his gift?

“You okay, sir?” Nick asked.

“She’s either going to love it or hate it and make our lives miserable.”

“Nah.” Nick watched as she came down the stairs. “Frances is opinionated and not afraid to speak her mind, but she’s got a good heart. She’d never punish anyone for such a thoughtful gift.”

“I hope you’re right.”

“What are you two standing like that for?” she asked with a frown.

“I’m waiting to show you your Christmas present.” Luke extended his hand.

“Now?” Her posture had turned wary.

“Now.” He took her hand and gently led her into the parlor.

With a gasp, Frances came to an abrupt halt. Nick nearly ran into her back.

She dropped her brother’s hand and dashed to the piano. Running her fingers over the wood, she looked up, her eyes glistening. Then she launched herself into Luke’s arms with a sob.

Nick took a step back. Franceshatedto cry, especially where anyone could see. Whenever one of the men suggested she might be about to cry, she’d go after him with her gun. It was only new guys now who dared to pull it. Yet, here she was, crying like a baby.

“Do you like it?” Luke asked.

“Iloveit.” She released him and spun on Nick. “If you dare say anything—”

“Not a word.” He raised his arms like he was being held up. “I promise. You going to play something?”

“Don’t be an idiot. Even shifting it a little requires a professional tuning.” Frances went back to it and sat on the bench. Nick expected her to lift the fall-board and expose the keys, but she only rested her hands in her lap and stared at it.

“Judith mentioned it’d have to be tuned, so I have someone coming from Billings tomorrow.” Luke came to stand beside her. “I didn’t know what music you might like, but we can order whatever you want.”

“For right now, it’s all here.” Frances pointed to her temple. “I can’t thank you enough for this, Luke, but it’s too much.”

“Consider it ten years’ worth of birthday and Christmas presents.”

“You’d best come eat before it’s gone,” Mrs. McDaniel said, peeking in.

Luke bent over and kissed his sister on the temple before striding from the room.

Watching her gaze lovingly at the piano, Nick experienced a twinge of jealousy. His thoughts drifted back to the Christmas Fair where Reverend Pearce had approached him and asked his age.

“Twenty-three, parson. Why?”

“I’ve recently talked with Mrs. Champion.”

“I ain’t heard of her. She must be new in town.” Nick had wondered what the parson was leading up to.

“She’s starting up a business.” Reverend Pearce had rubbed his jaw. “She’s a matchmaker and will be bringing in some mail-order brides.”

Nick had taken a step back. “Why are you tellingmethat?”

“Well, a young man your age ought to consider getting married and settling down.” With a glance at Frances, the parson had patted Nick on the shoulder and said, “Some women just have no desire for matrimony.”

Watching her now, Nick wished she’d look at him like she did that dang piano. He heaved out a breath. No matter what the parson had said, Nick didn’t want any other woman. Either he convinced Frances to marry him when she was ready, or he’d stay single.

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