"Yes. Brett, you have to stop worrying about me," Megan said.
"Never. It's part of my job. Anyway, I like worrying about you."
Megan placed her hand on Brett's forehead. "Love has made you a sick man. I hope Faith has the remedy, because I know of nothing that can help you now."
They stared at each other and then laughed. Clay took off and Brett said, "Did he tell you his stipulations for working here?"
"No." Concern filled her eyes.
"He refuses to be paid for his first month's work. That's to make up for stealing the money last year." Brett took a few steps, but stopped. "Do you know why he took it?" She shook her head. "To get noticed." He headed to the barn.
"Clay had my attention all summer," Megan said. Then it dawned on her. "He wanted his family's attention. Why can't we tell people how we feel and what we need?" Megan snickered. "I'm the last person to talk. Have I ever told Colby how I feel about him? I need to find a special way to show him, a way that is unique to our connection."
With chores finished, Megan and Misty headed towards the mountains that reached far into the sky; their snow-capped peaks acting like clouds. The wind rushed through her hair while warm sun radiated over her. Running Misty hard brought about a renewed sense of energy. "Yippee. Yahoo!" Megan shouted into the wind.
Nearing the River of Hope, they slowed to a canter. "Here we are, girl. Our resting spot." With boots and socks off, Megan soaked her feet in the cold river. The biting sensation soon passed to one of refreshment. A deep breath offered relaxation.
"Hello, child."
"Hello, Gray Cloud," she said. Seeing his bright smile and the twinkle in his eyes brought happiness to her. He looked much younger than his age of seventy-five. "You remind me of the man I met last summer."
"I am. I owe you for my happiness. Thank you for everything you have done for my family. How can we ever repay you?"
"Seeing you together is all I need. It did me good to help, because in assisting you, I found answers to my own questions."
Gray Cloud sat beside Megan. "Colby tells me you two are dating."
"Yes," Megan said, her cheeks flushed. "Do you mind?"