"Better than me." He pushed his weathered Stetson off his forehead. "I don't know how I'll survive the next three months, especially not knowing if we're having a boy or girl. I wish she would take a break from cooking for the campers this summer, but you know Tracy. She holds the award for being the best biscuit shooter in these here parts, and she's not giving up that title."
Megan snickered at Charlie and the way he talked. "You'll both be fine. Trust her to know when to rest and when to work."
He was quiet for a minute as he tweaked his moustache a few times. "Do you think I'll be a good dad?"
"You'll be a great dad, Charlie. These kids love you, adore you, and respect you. As they do with Tracy. Your child will have great parents and a great place to live."
Charlie stood straighter and pushed his shoulders back. "Tell her that, okay. She refuses to believe Brett or me. Perhaps she'll listen to you."
Megan agreed but doubted she would say anything. Last summer had been tense between the two. So far all seemed good. Megan had never seen Tracy so happy, her green eyes dancing with excitement as she cooked. Was Tracy ready to hear compliments from Megan? She shook her head and said a silent prayer asking that Tracy and her baby be healthy.
"So," Charlie said, leaning against the fence. "When are we getting our pard'ner back in the saddle?" He nodded towards Christa, who sat on the top fence rail opposite them. The young girl stared into the empty corral as if a force urged her to ride, but her lean body slumped forward as if loaded with a saddle and a blanket. There was no way to move except to get rid of the goods. Deep down Megan knew if Christa did not get on a horse soon she may never ride again.
"It isn't our choice," Megan said with a long sigh.
"You're okay with that?" he said, almost teasing.
She shrugged. She was slowly learning that each person had strengths buried deep inside. Only that person could uncover them. "That's what happens when you spend time with Gray Cloud. What else can I say?" Charlie nodded. When the supper bell rang they joined the crowd.
Supper was finished, the dishes were washed and dried, and everyone headed outside. Night had fallen on the Circle M and with it came a cool breeze. The group huddled around the campfire. Flames danced in a circle, licking the night air with their sweet, pine aroma. Gray Cloud entered the camp and nodded in acknowledgement to Brett. Megan watched this man she called friend and wondered when he would find joy again.