The Fire in Ember - DiAnn Mills [89]
“I like that you’re protective of your family,” Steven said. “Shows you’re a smart man. Of course you bein’ a deputy and all shows you know how to use a gun.”
“I’d like to think so, but life can deal us a hard blow if we’re not careful.”
“What happened to your arm?”
“Got shot trying to bring in a cattle rustler. Probably not one of my smart moves.” John handed Steven a towel to dry his face, hands, and neck. “Mama’s a good cook, and there’s always plenty.”
“Bert baked the biscuits,” Davis said.
Steven laughed. “You have a brother who bakes bread?”
“No sir. Bert’s a girl. She helps Mama in the kitchen and stuff. I used to help, but now I’m too big.”
Steven eyed Davis appreciatively. “I can see you’re about ready to bring in wild mustangs. I bet you could break them too.”
The group made their way to the front door. His brothers joked and talked to Steven as though they’d known him all their lives. Maybe since John couldn’t do much with his bandaged arm, Steven might be an answer to a prayer for help.
The door opened and Ember walked out onto the porch. “Your mama and I thought we might have to go round you all up. Breakfast is—” She blanched.
“We’ve been talking to Steven,” Davis said. “He helped John chop firewood while I did my chores in the barn.”
“Ember, this is Steven Lockhart,” John said. “Thought there’d be enough breakfast for him this morning. He’s new to Rocky Falls. Lookin’ for work.”
“Mornin', miss,” Steven removed his hat. “If the food inside tastes half as good as it smells, I’ll be one happy man.”
Ember seemed glued to the porch. “It’s a … pleasure, Mr. Lockhart.”
“Come on in,” Mama called. “I’ve set an extra plate.”
John studied Ember. Something about Steven bothered her. Frightened her. Did she know Steven? One way to find out.
CHAPTER 41
Leah liked Steven the moment he smiled and thanked her for allowing him to have breakfast with her family. The least they could do was feed him and hope he found work. John could have given him plenty of chores for the day, but she respected his decision. Couldn’t be too careful. However, the Bible did speak clearly about taking care of the homeless and feeding the hungry.
“These are the best biscuits,” Steven said. “My own sister couldn’t have made better. Miss Bert, I thank you for these.”
“Where’s home?” Ember stared at the man. Belligerence sparked from her voice and eyes.
Why doesn’t she like Steven? Does she know him?
“Missouri. I hired on to a rancher in Wyoming, but the winters are too cold. I plan to earn some money and head home. Gotta girl waitin’ for me there.”
“I’m sure those at home are missing you,” Ember continued. “Do you have any brothers?”
Steven smiled, revealing a few missing teeth. “Two brothers younger than me.” He jabbed a slice of apple with his fork. “The apples are right tasty.”
“Ember takes the credit for those,” Leah said.
“Thank you, miss. Now is your name Bert or Ember?”
Ember stared at Steven. She hadn’t touched a thing on her plate. “I answer to both.” She turned to Leah. “Is Mr. Zimmerman stopping by this evenin'?”
“Not tonight. He rode into Denver.”
“When will he return?”
Odd that Ember was interested in when Wirt planned to visit them. “Less than a week. He promised to stop here on his way back.” She paused for a moment to consider how God had blessed her with such a fine man who never tired of demonstrating his love and devotion for her. She missed him whenever he was gone, but he was always in her heart.
She sighed. How could a US Marshal and a widow with five sons form a family? Wirt said for her not to worry. She inwardly smiled. Worry was a woman’s lot in life.
The boys talked noisily—as usual — each one vying for Steven’s time. And he did not fail them. A good-mannered young man. He did his parents proud. Yet, it bothered her about Ember,