Sara became flustered. This wasn't the reaction she expected and she could see Roy retreating emotionally. "I'm sorry Roy, please stay for supper."
Roy paused and mulled over the current events in his head. "Perhaps another time Sara; I've got things to take care of."
"No, please stay for supper before you leave. Billy and Abe will be disappointed if you go now."
Roy grimaced and forced a small smile in the corner of his mouth. "Perhaps another time. Goodbye, Sara."
Sara watched Roy go out the door and then she slumped into a nearby chair placing her head into her hands. Heavens Sara Johansson, Roy was only attempting to help. Give him some credit for trying. Shaking her head, Sara groaned and then heaved a big sigh.
The following morning, Roy was filling his canteen at the spring when he heard the mules making their horrible sound again. Excited, he quickly ran out to the front porch. Sara and the boys were driving up and Roy noticed a picnic basket sitting next to Sara. Dressed in her usual jeans and men's shirt, the sight of Sara smiling made Roy's heart beat fast. Although he could not admit it, Roy was excited to see the Johansson family.
"I made fresh biscuits and gravy for breakfast. Are you hungry Roy?"
Clustered around the small wooden table of Roy's homestead, the four people sat down to eat together. This was the first time they had a meal together at Roy's table. Seeing the sight made him smile. After eating, the boys ran off to play while Roy and Sara cleaned up. They laughed like school kids as they stood next to each other. They then sat down and enjoyed another cup of coffee.
"Thank you for the delicious biscuits." Roy patted his tummy. "Best breakfast I've ever had." Roy was satisfied and showed it.
"It's hot and dry outside Roy. Why is your cabin so cool?"
Grinning, Roy stood and grabbed Sara's hand leading her to the back of the fireplace. He showed her the entrance to the cave and tunnel. Cold air was blowing on her face. Roy grabbed a kerosene lamp and lit it.
"My goodness Roy, how far back does it go?"
"Quite a bit; I'll show you."
Abe and Billy burst into the cabin hot and sweaty. "Maw?"
Sara leaned her head from around the back of the fireplace. "Back here boys. Roy is going to show us his tunnel."
"Yahoo," yelled Abe.
Just inside the tunnel, Billy picked up one of the filled mason jars stored along the walls and showed it to his mother.
"They're from my big garden, back when the rains were here. I use them once in a while, but they're mostly for emergencies, or when I hate to go into town; which is quite often."