Ryland said, stepping aside. Come on in. Doc Calder joined them at the table and gladly accepted a bowl of stew. The children watched him with open curiosity as he ate. I heard what happened in the square today, the doctor said after a moment, his expression turning serious.
"I want all of you to understand something. Not everyone in Dusty Creek thinks the same way." He looked from one child to the next. Some of us know a person's kindness has nothing to do with skin color or where they were born. Yara's eyes shone with emotion.
Thank you, doctor. That means more to us than you know. Doc Calder smiled at the children. When school lets out Monday, come by my office. I'd like to show you a few things about medicinal plants.
Somehow, I get the feeling your family knows more about the desert than most grown folks around here. Yara's face brightened immediately. Among her Apache people, she had long been known for her skill with healing herbs and desert plants. "I'd like to learn more," Reco said eagerly. "Me, too," Kea added, almost bouncing in her chair.
After Doc Calder left, Ryland helped the children settle in for the night. This time, it came easier. He no longer had to think about how to pull the blankets up around their shoulders, or whether a good-night kiss belonged on the forehead. His hands moved with more confidence now, and the tenderness behind every small gesture came naturally. "Papa Ryland," Meri said just before closing her eyes.
"Is it always going to be this hard?" Ryland sat on the edge of her mattress and gently brushed a strand of hair from her face. I don't know, little one, he paused. But I do know this. As long as we stay together, we can face whatever comes.
His voice softened. We're a family now, and love has a way of standing taller than fear. Meri gave him a peaceful little smile. Then she closed her eyes. Ryland slipped quietly from the room and found Yara standing beside the window, looking out at the stars above Dusty Creek.
"You all right?" He asked softly. She did not answer right away. "I was just thinking," she said at last. "Two days ago, I was certain we were going to die in that desert."
She looked around the house. "Now we have food, clean clothes, a roof over our heads." Her voice grew quieter. We have hope. Then she turned toward him.
And it's because of you. Ryland pulled up a chair beside her and slowly shook his head. No, Yara. He rested a hand against his chest. This happened because our trails crossed when they did.
His eyes lowered for a moment. I was dying, too. Yara looked at him. Not from thirst, he continued. Not from the desert.
He gave a faint, sad smile. From being alone too long. Then he looked toward the children's room. You and those five brought me back to life. Yara rested her hand over his.