Page 30 of Montana Lawman Rescuer
Emily couldn’t sit still, couldn’t stand still, and paced from the wagon to the trees and back again.
Jesse leaned against the wagon box and watched her. “I wish I could help.”
“I need to know who I am.” She turned and made another circuit.
Perhaps understanding that her inner turmoil was too great for her to be able to relax, he left her to pace and went to Mikey, chasing him and making him laugh.
The sound of such abandoned joy stilled her worries. Things would work out. She just had to trust and wait.
The rest of the return trip passed in relative peace. She filled her senses with the beauty of her surroundings, the pleasure of the little boy on her knees, and the steady presence of Jesse at her side.
They reached Bella Creek and drove toward Gram’s house.
Jesse set Mikey on the ground and helped Emily alight. She clung to his arm as they went to the door and stepped into the house.
Muffin nearly turned inside out in excitement at the sight of the little boy, and Mikey fell to his knees and hugged the dog.
Gram came from the sewing room. “What’s all this fuss?”
Emily rushed into Gram’s arms and burst into tears.
Gram led her to the kitchen, leaving Mikey playing with the dog. “Now, tell me what happened.”
Seeing Emily was unable to speak, Jesse explained. “She is no closer to knowing who she is.”
Gram patted Emily’s back. “Both you and Mikey are safe, and that’s what matters. I confess I am very glad you’re back. I was worried about how you’d do if your memory didn’t return.”
Emily swallowed her last sob and stepped away from the warm, welcoming arms. “Thank you, and I’m sorry for being such a baby.”
“Nonsense. I spent a few hours weeping while you were gone. Now, I think we could all use a cup of tea and some cookies.”
Jesse pressed a hand to her shoulder. “You have a home here as long as you need it.”
She sniffed. “I am overwhelmed by your kindness.” It was tempting to forget trying to learn about her past and simply settle down in this town and start over.
But she couldn’t. At any time, her memory could return, or someone would appear who knew who she was, and whatever of good or bad her past held would be revealed.
Unable to dismiss the dark shadow that hovered over her, she shivered.
CHAPTER SEVEN
They ate early, as was their custom, so Jesse could make his rounds about town and Gram could go to bed whenever she wanted to.
As soon as they were done with supper, he pushed back. “Gram, I’m going to take Emily and Mikey for a walk.”
“Excellent.” Gram turned to Emily. “Now, don’t you fuss about helping with the dishes. I can manage quite fine. You run along and enjoy yourselves.”
Emily demurred a moment. Jesse thought she might refuse, but then she nodded. “Thank you. You are most generous.”
Gram leaned to Emily giving her a hug about her shoulders. “It’s a pleasure to have your company.” She straightened and nodded at Jesse. “You take good care of the both of them.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He did his best to sound as if she’d scolded him even though he had every intention of keeping them safe.
Emily chuckled. “I can see she raised you right.”
He was at Gram’s side. “She surely did.” He kissed her soft cheek.
“Oh, go away with you.” Gram tried to sound annoyed, but her pleasure at his compliment brought a pleased look to her eyes.
