find Emory and Tess hovering on the other side. “We don’t want to lose you too.”
Reno understood. He touched the older boy’s shoulder. “You’re not going to lose me. I’ll be fine. Now, lock the door.”
Once the children were safely inside, Reno shouldered his weapon to set out on patrol.
CHAPTER FOUR
Journey
“Come in this house!” Myra’s exuberant welcome brought a smile to Journey’s face.
“Hey, Aunt Myra. It’s so good to see you.” She greeted her relative with a big hug. “Are you all packed and ready to go?”
“I am. Everything’s all loaded in the car. I’ll be on my way just as soon as I show you a few things and help you bring your stuff into the house.” She paused to pick up her pride and joy – or one them. A dapple dachshund by the name of Dudley.
“Don’t bother. I can get my things later. Not all of it has to be brought in right now.” She tickled the dog’s spotted tummy. “Hey, Duds. Ready to party?”
“Always.” Myra kissed the pup on the side of the face. “Are you going to be a good boy for Journey?”
“We’ll be fine. Where’s Cleo?” Dudley’s sister, of course. Frankly, she was surprised her great aunt was making the journey without the dogs. She usually took them everywhere she went.
“Napping. She chased a rabbit all around the yard this morning. Tired herself out.” Myra led the way through the kitchen. “The fridge and freezer are stocked.”
“Good. I thought I might make a pot of soup. So far, this spring has been cooler than normal.”
“I hope I have everything you need – but you can check. If you go into town, Natural Grocers has the best produce I’ve ever tasted.” Myra continued through the dining area to a sunroom where the majority of her houseplants were kept. “My orchids and violets are in here.” She waved at a profusion of blooms. I’ve made a list of when they need food and watering. If you notice, each plant has a number on the pot and there are corresponding directions according to that number.”
Journey wanted to roll her eyes – but she didn’t. Myra seriously loved those plants and she didn’t want to disappoint her relative. “I’ll figure it out. Don’t worry.”
“All of the fertilizer and plant food is under the sink.” She pointed, then opened one of the doors to point at the containers. “There’s also a special watering can. Remember the violets like to be watered from the bottom. Try not to get any water on the leaves please. Also, my orchids prefer spritzing so here is a spray bottle for that.”
“Got it.” Journey was sure she could figure it all out. “What else?”
“The horses will be fine. I have Mr. Kota Blue who lives just on the other side of the park to help me. Kota or his grandson drop by each day to feed and exercise them. However, if you want to take one out for a ride – you know you’re welcome.”
“I used to live here. Remember?”
Myra laughed. “I know. I just like to give orders.”
“Is Mr. Blue your boyfriend?”
Myra put her hands on her hips. “No. He’s my neighbor. The one who used to make those beautiful saddles. Why would you ask me that?”
“Just giving you a taste of your own medicine.” Journey giggled as she followed her aunt to the living area where Cleo met them with a fast wagging tail.
Myra paid her little mind. “All right. Am I forgetting anything?”
“Not that I know of. How is Uncle Myles? Have you heard anything more?”
“I talked to the hospice nurse. He’s still lucid. When he feels up to it, he’s going through box after box of his old papers, genealogical records and so on.” She waved her hand. “You know how he is. In a lot of ways – he’s just like you.” Myra smiled sadly. “In fact, I think he’s leaving all of his research to you. I’ve often told him about your – uh – fascination with the past.”
“Oh. Wonderful.” She didn’t let on too much. In some respects, Myra was as concerned as Lou about her seeming obsession with the past. “Are you taking some reading material with you?”
“My kindle is full, dear.” She placed Dudley gently on the floor. “How about you? Do you have enough to do to keep from getting bored out here in the sticks?”
“Plenty.” She sat down the bag she was carrying and began to sort through it. “I brought some face