Page 75 of The Scholar (Emerson Pass Historicals 3)

“A couple of reasons,” Flynn said. “One is the noise and confusion of the logging.”

“The other is a fear that our town will be overrun with visitors,” Phillip said.

“Commerce is never a bad thing,” Papa said.

“I, for one, am happy about the new run.” Cymbeline sliced the air with her butter knife as if it were a sword. “This is going to be one for real skiers, not city folk.”

Quinn laughed. “Dear, be kind.”

“She’s right, Mama,” Flynn said. “We’re hoping to attract more serious recreational skiers. If we can become known for the best skiing in the country, it’s all the better.”

“I do hate to think of the mountain losing more of its trees.” Fiona’s brow wrinkled. “And what about the birds and animals?”

“They’ll find other places to nest.” Flynn lifted a glass of red wine to his mouth, his eyes dancing with amusement. “Unless you’d like to go out and rescue them all, little sister.”

“I’ll go with you.” Delphia’s blue eyes had filled with tears. “What if the babies get separated from their mothers?”

“No, love,” Papa said. “The animals know what to do.”

“Instinctually,” Cymbeline said with an indulgent glance toward Delphia. “Don’t worry.”

“Are you sure?” Delphia asked.

“I’ll take you out there to see for yourself,” Flynn said.

“I’m not sure that’s a good place for a little girl,” Shannon said. “The men who’ve come to help can be rough.”

“Rough how?” Delphia asked, seeming to forget her worry over the animals as interest in this new tidbit drew her attention.

“Never mind that,” Quinn said. “Let’s change the subject. Shannon, how’s your mother feeling? Have you been to see her today?”

“She’s feeling almost back to normal, thanks to Theo,” Shannon said.

“How clever you are, Theo,” Quinn said.

He was clever. I filled with pride as everyone congratulated him.

“Theo, I’m very proud of you,” Josephine said.

“Thanks, Jo. But wait and see if she continues to improve,” Theo said modestly.

“Well done, Theo.” Phillip grinned. “It’s more and more obvious that leaving me here to help with the business despite my inferior intellect was a wise decision.”

“Nonsense,” Theo said. “Your business mind is far superior to mine.”

“That’s true,” Flynn said in a teasing tone. “Seriously, well done, brother. You’ve eased my wife’s mind considerably. I guess that fancy education’s paying off.”

“Education is only what you make of it,” Papa said. “I agree, Theo. Well done.”

I reached for Theo’s hand under the table but found his muscular thigh instead. He covered my hand with his own.

“Any news from Alma?” Quinn asked Shannon.

“She’s well,” Shannon said. “Her husband’s thinking of running for congress in Ohio.”

“How exciting,” Quinn said.

“I’d rather have them here,” Shannon said. “But she’s enjoying being a wife and mother. I miss her, though.”