The flavors were new to Emma, but she enjoyed them very much. She was entertained as Hays bantered with his brothers, bringing her into the conversation several times. He was confident and lighthearted. It was evident he enjoyed making his family laugh.
GW spoke almost exclusively with Mama and Papa, and Hope prattled on with Crockett, who sat across the table from her. David had learned that Bowie raised Catahoula cur cattle dogs, and he asked dozens of questions, which Bowie answered quietly.
Perla arrived to clear the bowls, and when she reached Hays she frowned. “You have not finished your soup.”
“That’s because he talks too much,” Travis said with a laugh.
“Eat, Se?or Hays,” Perla said, putting her free hand on her hip. “I do not slave in the kitchen all day for nothing.”
Hays gave her a good-natured smile and obediently finished his soup before she took the bowl away.
“A schoolhouse?” GW’s commanding voice rose above the others, and Emma lifted her head to find his blue eyes assessing her. “You plan to build a schoolhouse?”
Emma looked at her father, who sheepishly inspected his dinner plate.
“I do.” Emma nodded. “I spoke with Mr. Cochrane and he gave me permission, provided I secure my own funding.”
The other conversations came to a halt, and once again Emma felt all eyes on her.
GW wiped his mouth and set his napkin aside. “I think it’s high time this town had a proper school. I’d be happy to donate whatever is needed.”
Heat gathered under her collar.
“This is called guacamole.” Perla was suddenly at her side again and showed her the creamy green dish.
Travis leaned around Crockett. “I think you’ll enjoy it.”
Emma allowed Perla to place the foreign food on her plate and then met GW’s penetrating gaze once again. “Thank you for the offer, but I would like the community to raise the funds on their own.” She glanced at her father for support, and then she looked back at GW. “You’ve been a generous benefactor to Hartville, but I believe the citizens, especially the children, would have a greater sense of ownership if they all pitch in and build the school together.”
GW didn’t say anything for a moment, but then a half smile appeared on his face. “I like your spirit, Miss Longley. I think you’ll do just fine.”
“I think she’ll do better than fine,” Hays said beside her.
The heat crept up Emma’s neck and blossomed in her cheeks.
“Don’t mind my youngest, he’s barely housebroken.” GW chuckled. “We’re still trying to tame him.”
“An impossible task,” Austin said, sending a grin toward his brother.
A round of smiles filled the table, and Emma relaxed. She had expected something far different when she arrived in the Hart home, but she was pleased to see that she had been wrong.
“I wish you great success, Miss Longley,” GW said. “And if there’s anything we can do to help, please let us know.”
Emma nodded, though she was certain she would not ask the Harts for a thing. They had already done enough for the town, and it was time the town did something for itself.
Chapter Three
Hays set his napkin on the table, fully satisfied with the meal but unsatisfied with his progress. He wanted to get Emma alone and away from his family.
“Thank you for the delicious meal,” Reverend Longley said to Pa.
“It’s our pleasure.” Pa stood. “Let’s head on into the parlor for Perla’s coffee. There are a few things I’d like to discuss.”
Chairs were pushed away from the table, scraping the wood floor as everyone followed his lead.
“Miss Longley,” Hays said to Emma, “would you like to see the ranch?”
“That’s a good idea.” Pa turned abruptly, his countenance a bit heavy. “I’d prefer to speak privately with Reverend and Mrs. Longley.”
Hays didn’t miss the troubled glance Travis shared with Austin.
“Why don’t the rest of you take a tour of the ranch?” Pa said to his sons.
“I’d like to see your dogs, Mr. Bowie.” David looked up at Bowie with wide eyes. “May I?”
Bowie had been making a quiet exit, but he froze at the request and dipped his head until his hair covered his scars. “If you like. But they’re workin’ dogs, not pets.”
“May I go, Mama?” David ran back to his mother and bounced from foot to foot.
“You may.” Mrs. Longley adjusted the bow tie around his neck. “But mind your manners, and please don’t be a bother.”
“Yes, ma’am.” David sidled up to Bowie, pulling the tie away from his throat. “How many dogs do you have? How long have you been breeding them? How much does one cost? Do you think I could have one someday…?” They disappeared out the doors, and David’s voice trailed away.
Emma’s sister stood smiling coyly at Travis. “Will you come on the tour with us, Dr. Hart?”
“I wish I could.” Travis checked his pocket watch. “But I’m afraid I need to make a house call. It’s been a pleasure meeting all of you.” He left the dining room before anyone could protest.
“I should go see about the new colt,” Austin said, following Travis.