“How’s your lunch?” Pa asked Ryan.

     “Best salt pork I ever had.  The corn muffins are delicious, too,” Ryan insisted, and he looked straight into Christine’s face.  “Your daughter is quite a cook, Lansford.”

     “Yes, she is,” Pa agreed.

     Christine put her head down, blushing.  She was also shy, and disliked being the center of attention.  She knew she was, and she felt very uncomfortable.  She glanced at Ryan, caught his eye, and he gave her a calming gaze.    She was surprised his look calmed her.  He seemed to understand her shyness, understand her.  How could he?  He barely knew her, yet she felt they had a connection...

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