“And,” he said, “when she gets too bossy, I fire her, but it doesn’t do a damn bit of good.The woman just snorts and keeps doing what she was doing.”
His heart tripped in his chest when Hanna laughed.He realized it was the first time he’d ever heard her laugh, and he pledged at that moment to make her laugh every day for the rest of their lives.
“I like this girl, boy.Is this the one you’ve been talking about for years?I’m guessing yes since there aren’t too many Hannas living around here.”
Blake rolled his eyes.“Yes.She’s the one.”
Dottie smiled at her.“I’m glad you're finally here to put this boy out of his misery.I know I’m sick of his whining because you weren’t here.Please tell me you’re staying?”
Blake grunted.“See what I mean?She’s so bossy.You feel sorry for me, right?”
He was glad to see the confusion disappear and her smile again.
“Can we get some food for her?She didn’t eat at all yesterday.”
Dottie walked up to her and grabbed onto her shoulders.
“I’m so sorry to hear about your mom, honey.She was one of the best people I’ve ever known, and she was so proud of you.”
His stomach tightened when he saw tears fill Hanna’s eyes.
“Thank you,” she said.“I thought she was pretty special, too.”
“Well, you come and sit down, and I’ll get you fed.It’s a beautiful day out, and I know this boy wanted to take you out and explore.”
She glanced up at him.“Explore what?”
“That’s a surprise,” Blake said.
Hanna chuckled.
He led her over to the table and sat her down.
“Can I get you orange juice and coffee?”
“Yes, that would be wonderful.Thank you.”
“Sugar or cream?”
“Neither.I like it black.”
Within a few minutes, he set a cup and glass down and sat beside her.
“Oh, my,” Hanna said when Dottie set down a large plate filled with eggs, bacon, and pancakes.
“Thank you, Dottie, but this is too much food.”
Dottie laughed.“I know, honey, but knowing that man next to you, he’ll help you finish it.”
Hanna glanced up at him.“You’ll help?”
“Yes.I’m always hungry.”
“That’s no lie,” Dottie said and walked away.
Blake picked up the only fork, speared a bite of eggs, and put it up to her mouth.
She looked shocked.“I can feed myself.”
