Petra laid her fingers on Clara’s arm. “You must be more professional toward Daniel. When he looks at you his eyes betray his amorous thoughts toward you.”
Clara patted her aunt’s hand. “That’s not uncommon for a patient in therapy. After they are healed, the attraction fades.”
Petra went to her side of the bed and turned back the covers. “I see. And what of yours to him?”
Stunned, Clara had to wait a few seconds to answer. “D-Do I act as if I have amorous feelings for him?”
“Ja, but only to someone who has known you for twelve years. You must plan how to handle this, especially if you believe his attraction to you will fade when he is healed. Otherwise, you could be badly hurt or humiliated.” Petra crawled between the sheets.
Clara placed a hand on her cheek and felt the heat of her blush. “Aunt Petra, I am embarrassed that you noticed what I have tried hard to hide. I have treated handsome men before but never have I been attracted to one of my patients. I assume this will also fade.” She hoped so, but believed hers was a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.
“I will say no more about it now that you are warned. Time will tell. Do not allow sentiment to ruin an important opportunity and derail your career.”
“I will not. This is something I must consider carefully.”
What was she to do? If her aunt noticed, others might also.
Chapter Thirteen
Daniel wrestled with his improved function. As joyous as the ability to move his feet even for small steps was, exhaustion claimed him. Other things concerned him more right now.
Pa came in and sat at the foot of his bed. “Well, we got the aunt moved into her home. She’s happy as if it were the grandest place in town.”
“Her former home was three or four stories and always cold, according to Clara.”
“She and Clara sure seem to be getting along well, considering how Clara was upset when her aunt showed up here unannounced.”
“They talked out their differences and are close now. Too bad they had misunderstandings which made them both unhappy for years.”
“Glad you’re making progress, Son. I can’t even imagine how hard this must be for you, but you’ll get there. Anything I can do to help?”
Daniel glanced at the door to be certain they wouldn’t be overheard. “Reckon you’re the only one I can tell, Pa. Much as I hate to ask you to spend more on me, I sure would like one of those commode chairs. You know the kind I mean?”
“Like the one in your mother’s and my room—looks like an oak armchair, but you can raise the seat and there’s a hole to a chamber pot, right?”
“That’s the kind. And a screen to give me some privacy would be appreciated. Guess I shouldn’t complain, but using the bedpan is hard as hell since I can’t lift my hips and have to rest on my fists. I tell you it’s plumb embarrassing. I know Clara is professional and doesn’t think twice about such things, but I do and feel mighty weird going in front of her. And, anyone could walk in.”
Pa plowed his fingers through his hair. “Sorry we didn’t think of something like that ourselves. Of course you’re entitled to some privacy. I’ll see you have them tomorrow.”
Pa paused then looked him straight in the eye. “Son, seems like you’ve become awful attracted to Clara.”
Daniel’s face heated and he hated that his tan had faded so much a blush would be obvious. He cleared his throat. “What if I have?”
Pa’s hands came up palm forward. “No need to get riled. We’ve become real fond of her, too. But, remember she plans to move on after you’re walking well.”
“I know that’s what she’s said. But, I figure she could have a clinic in McClintock Falls as easy as anywhere. Hate to sound selfish but I’m sure upset that doctor in St. Louis had to stick in his nose with an offer at a fancy hospital.”
Pa tsked. “Must be mighty tempting to her.”
“With her aunt settled in town, I reckon that might help convince her to stay.” The rosy picture Daniel had built disintegrated. “Hell, I’m dreaming. No reason she’d stay in a small town for a wreck of man like me.”
“Hey, you’re talking crazy. Don’t talk down about yourself.”
“She’d have to build a clinic here and get the word out. Would be lots of work when that doc offered a place already set up with the latest equipment.”
“Doesn’t hurt to plan as long as you realize she has worthwhile alternatives. After all you’ve been through, your mother and I sure don’t want you hurt again.” Pa patted his leg.
Daniel looked up and his face broke out in a smile. “Pa, I felt your hand when a week ago I wouldn’t have. There’s hope after all.”
“If you could build a house with hope, we’d have us a fine palace. Nice to know our dreams are coming true. I’ll see about the screen and chair. You keep working.” He stood. “Whatever happens with Clara, remember your mother and I are on your side.”
“I know you are and I can’t tell you how grateful I am for all you and Mama have done. Josh and Dallas, too.”
“That’s what families do. See you later.”
No sooner had Pa left than Clara came in. “Aunt Petra’s completely moved in and incredibly pleased. The Bartletts left many of their things in addition to furniture.”
“Guess their son won’t have room for them otherwise.”
Clara had a wistful expression. “Seems a shame to have to leave so much, and must be hard to bear. Aunt Petra had to do the same, though”
“Have you answered that St. Louis doctor’s letter?”
She smiled and came closer. “Yes, and mailed it while I was in town. Why?”
He’d tried to think of a subtle way to find out, but he couldn’t. “What did you tell him?”
She grinned and put her hands on her shapely hips. “Well, aren’t you Mr. Nosey? And you think curiosity is a woman?”
“Aw, Clara, just tell me.”
She sat on the foot of his bed. “If you must know, I told him I’m not available because I have a patient I can’t dismiss for several weeks, possibly months.”
He frowned at her. “You want to go live in St. Louis?”
“Daniel, I have to live somewhere.”
“You could live here.” Damn, he sounded like a kid. He hadn’t intended to say it quite like that.
“I am trained to help people. Other than helping you, I cannot do that without a clinic or hospital and equipment.”
“Tell me your dream situation—I mean if you could have anything you wanted.”
She took a deep breath. “I have dreamed of having my own clinic like a sanitarium or small hospital and my own staff. I would have lovely rooms for the patients, with only one patient per room if possible. A gymnasium-like place for therapy would be next to a bathing pool with heated water. Park-like grounds around the clinic would allow the patients to enjoy fresh air in beauty.”
“Hmm, sounds like you’ve given this a lot of thought.”
She shrugged. “Ja, I am a good dreamer. Not so good at making dreams come true I guess.”
“Did you dream of coming to America?”
Her expression brightened. “Ja, for several years that had been a dream.”
“You made that one come true.”
She waggled her forefinger at him. “No, your parents and Dr. Sullivan made it come true. I was lucky.”
“I don’t agree. If you hadn’t worked hard and won the respect and admiration of your professors, you wouldn’t have been recommended.”
She tilted her pretty head. “Perhaps it was a combination. Whatever the reason, I am very glad to be here.”
“And I’m especially grateful to have you here. Not only have you helped me, you’ve won the respect and admiration of my family and my love.”
Her eyes widened. “Promise me you won’t say that again, Daniel. We agreed you would wait until you were well and able to see other young women.”
He chuckled as he shook his head. “Oh no, that was your suggestion. I never agree
d.”
She snapped, “Daniel McClintock, you are so stubborn.”
Rebecca stood in the doorway. “I agree but what brought that on?”
He stared at his little sister, who was a pest right now. “Isn’t anything private around here?”
“Not if you leave your door open and talk loudly. Mama wants you both to come for supper.”
***
Clara helped Daniel from the harness. “Good job today. You are getting steadier each day.”
“If your workouts don’t kill me first, I’m going to walk on my own.”
“Tomorrow, we will not use the harness. You did not need it today.”
“Hey, I’ll fall without support.”
“You will not. Your arms and shoulders will get tired and sore—more than they are now. But, you will not fall.”
“What if I want to fall?”
“Now you are being ridiculous. Instead of being silly, get ready for your massage.”
“Sounds good to me. Your massages are the highlight of my day.” He lay on his stomach.
“Rebecca is doing well at learning the technique. Having her practice on me is wonderful.”
“I’ll bet. Ah-h-h, that spot is especially sore. Did you know President George Washington spent two hundred dollars on ice cream the summer of 1790?”
She loved his odd items of history. “My goodness, he must have really loved ice cream.”
“Imagine how much money that would be now almost a hundred years later. Probably it was the Treasury’s money anyway and not his own.”
Clara tried to remember something to surprise him. “Did you know the stage before frostbite is called frostnip?”
“Had no idea. Did you know that the equal sign was invented in 1557 by Welsh mathematician Robert Recorde who was tired of having to write ‘is equal to’ over and over?”
“I suppose you know that because you keep the ranch’s books and the fact is related.”
“Nope, simply read it somewhere and though it interesting.”
“I am glad you read. Reading improves the mind, but not if you only learn items that are not helpful.”
“Nothing learned is ever wasted. For instance, when I learned that I saved it for such an occasion as this.”
“Sometimes I think you are a bit crazy.”
He raised his head to look at her. “But adorable, right?”
“Baby Austin is adorable. You are incorrigible.”
“Ha, I’ll bet you learned that word in English class and have been biding your time and wanting to use that word.”
“What word? Baby Austin?”
“That’s two words. You know I meant incorrigible. That must be hard for someone new to English.”
“Hard words are those that begin with TH or W. You must roll onto your back now.” She helped him turn.
“Your English has improved since you’ve lived here.”
“Speaking every day with you and your family has helped me. I am not learning Spanish as quickly.”
“You’re right, we don’t spend enough time practicing. I think we should have a specific time to devote to our language lessons.”
“Teaching me Spanish is a much better use of your time than thinking of things like George Washington’s ice cream.”
***
Clara found Kathryn in her herbal studio while Daniel napped. “He can walk, but he won’t let go of the bars. He’s afraid he’ll fall. I don’t know if he’s afraid he will hurt himself or embarrass himself.”
Kathryn grimaced and continued to crush herbs with a mortar and pestle. “Knowing my son, probably both.”
“Having him refuse to walk even a few steps on his own is frustrating. The truth is he won’t walk as well as before the accident, but he will walk.”
Kathryn looked up from her labors. “You mean he’ll be shaky and his movements slow?”
“Not exactly. His gait will have changed. Have you seen a music box with a moving figure?”
“Rebecca has a music box like that which the boys got her for her thirteenth birthday.” Kathryn raised her hand in the air. “When the lid opens, a beautifully dressed woman walks around with a bird perched on her hand. They ordered the gift from New York, but the label says France. I’m sure it was expensive but it’s lovely.”
“Then you understand. Instead of a smooth gate, his is more like an automaton. He hates that he cannot move smoothly and rapidly. Of course, he will continue to improve for many months before his walk becomes static.”
Kathryn poured the herbs she had just ground into a pottery jar. “He has always held himself to the highest standards of performance. From the time he was small, he wanted to do everything as well as Josh. The difference between them is that Daniel was shy and read a lot.”
Clara grinned at the other woman. “He still reads a lot.” More seriously, she added, “He insists he cannot walk without support. I will continue trying to convince him he can walk on his own.”
Kathryn set down the jar and hugged Clara. “Thank you, Clara, for all you’ve done. You’ve been such a blessing as well as a good friend.”
“What a kind thing to say. Thank you.”
***
Daniel frowned and looked at Clara. “What’s that noise? What’s going on out there?”
“Nothing to concern you right now. Keep walking toward me.”
He bent sideways over the bar to look out the window. “What are Red and Lucky building?”
“Something I asked for. You can see when they have completed the project.”
“Clara, explain.”
“I cannot for it is something you must see. I do not know the English words for their construction.”
“But you know words like construction and incorrigible. I think you’re hiding something. You promised you would always tell the truth.”
“All right. I dawdled… is that a word for prevaricated?”
“No, but so you lied. About what?”
Red knocked on the window. “All finished, Miss Van Hoosan.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Nunn and Mr. Dixon.”
“Now will you tell me?”
She positioned his chair so he could sit down. “Better than that, I will show you.”
He maneuvered into the Bath wheelchair. “This had better be good.”
“I believe it is wonderful. You will see, ja?” She pushed the chair through the hall, parlor, and foyer.
When she reached around him to open the front door, he grabbed the wheel rims and tried to stop her from shoving him outside. From this angle, she was stronger and prevailed. The chair bumped over the threshold and he was on the front porch.
Then, he saw what the noise had been. A gently sloping ramp had been built from the porch to the ground. What the hell was she thinking?
“You know I don’t want to be in this chair where anyone but family can see me. Why would you do this me?”
“Do you think the men who work here are unaware of you? Don’t you think they care what happens? Let me assure you they know your progress and are eager to help.”
The knowledge the ranch hands knew what he’d been doing and how well heightened his frustration. “So what? You let me turn this around and go back inside.”
Clara proceeded as if she were oblivious to his complaints. “You cheat them by shutting them out. You have also cheated yourself of time out of doors. We are going for a short walk then I will take you inside.”
His body tensed until his muscles quivered. “Clara, you have no right to do this.”
“This is part of your treatment. Do you remember when I told you about my dream clinic and said a pretty garden for fresh air and sunshine?”
“That was a fantasy. This is real. You shouldn’t do this to me.”
“Ja, I am the therapist and this will help you. You must trust me.”
“I did trust you. Now I’m not so sure.”
“Do not lie to me, Daniel. Does it not feel good to be outside again? Have yo
u not missed being able to leave the house?”
He hated being trapped inside, but he’d come to think of his room as his world. “That’s not the point. You are forcing me to do something I specifically told you I didn’t want to do.”
“Ja, but you did not want to try the parallel bars either. Look how that turned out. Now you can walk.”
The fact she had a point failed to decrease his ire. “Where the hell are we going?”
“Up to the main road and then back. I think that will be a good start for you. Tomorrow we can go further if you wish.”
“I won’t wish. You won’t be able to trick me out here tomorrow.” He’d show her how uncooperative he could be.
“Daniel, stop fussing and look around you. The sky is bright blue, there is a gentle breeze to cool us, and the sun is shining. Listen to the birds serenading us, rejoice in being alive on such a fine day.”
“You’re a bully, Clara Roos Van Hoosan.”
She leaned near his ear. “If you don’t like where I am pushing the chair then get out and walk.”
“That’s not funny. Walking is hard enough with the bars to support me. I can’t walk without that prop.”
He peered ahead. “Looks like Roy Evans is taking horses for Dallas and Finn to train. He ought to have them on a string. Looks like they’re free.”
Something on the road must have frightened the horses. The bay in back whinnied and darted forward. As he passed the other two, they joined in the run. Roy and his son Harley tried to cut off the horses without success.
“Clara, we need to get behind a tree. Those horses are headed this way.”
She didn’t move. When he turned to look at her, her face was a mask of terror. If they didn’t move now, they’d be trampled.
He stood and stepped in front of her, waving his arms and yelling, “Heeyaw, heeyaw!”
The horses turned and ran toward the barn. Harley and Roy had lassos ready but couldn’t get in a position to throw the ropes. Near the barn, Lucky opened the corral gate and the horses galloped into the corral.
Daniel grabbed Clara’s shoulders. “You’re all right. The horses are penned.”
She blinked and grabbed his arms. “Daniel, you are walking. You walked to save us—to save me. I thought I was going to die like my parents. I was so frightened I could not move.”
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