“I hate to disturb you, but you need to take your medicine again, then you can go back to sleep.” She placed a hand behind his head, helped him into a semi-sitting position and put the glass to his lips. He thirstily emptied it, as if the fever had pulled every bit of moisture from his body; even then she curled her nose wondering how he stood the awful taste. “How are you feeling?” She set the glass aside and plumped his pillow. “Some better, but I can’t get past being sleepy.” “I’m sure it’s the medicine. You rest and get well, Pa. Cook is making you some of her tasty chicken soup. In the meantime, is there anything else I can get for you?” He shook his head, his eyes already half-lidded. “Well, if you think of anything you need, Cook will be here. I’m…” She thought for a moment. Anything about her and guns was the last thing Pa needed to know. “I’m going to be outside in the barn for a bit.” She crossed her fingers behind her back to counteract the lie.
