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Chapter 24

Effrem

After lunch ends, I take Clyde with me to hook up the teams. I’m hooking up the wagon for us and the sled for the tree.

“Best put blankets over the hay bales. I think this is the King’s first foray into the wilderness.” Clyde says with a laugh.

I smile at my boy. “How’s school?”

“It’s good. I kinda miss home.”

“You’re welcome home any time. If you want to switch schools and be closer, you can do that too.”

“Dad, do you think you’ll ever date again?”

What the hell?“What brought that up?”

“Ruby being here. I mean, I know she’s filling in for Dee, but it’s nice having someone, not Dee, around.”

“What’s wrong with Dee?”

“Nothing, dad. She’s just married and you need someone in your life.”

“I’m fine son.”

He shakes his head. “We won’t think any less of you if you fall in love again, dad. Sixteen years is a long time for a memory to keep you warm.”

“Son, when did you get so wise?”

He chuckles. “I have a good example. I’ll go grab blankets.”

We harness up both teams, put blankets over the hay bales and extra for people’s laps. Fat flakes of snow fall down around us.

“I don’t remember the last time we had snow at Christmas, Clyde says.”

“It’s been awhile.”

When we’re all finished. one of the ranch hands watches the horses while we return to the main house to gather everyone. We find everyone gathered in the kitchen. Ruby is packing a huge basket with who knows what.

“Are we ready?”

Ruby hands the basket to me. “You all have fun.”

“You’re going with us.”

“I am?”

“Yes.” Clyde says.

“Definitely,” Dalton adds.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to intrude on family time.”

Jessi throws her arm over Ruby’s shoulders. “Then consider yourself officially adopted. Get your coat.”

Ruby laughs and rushes out of the room. She comes back a few minutes later dressed for the weather.

“Ruby, sit beside dad on the bench.” Dalton suggest