Chapter Thirteen
Sophie headed back inside, and went around behind the bar, ignoring the drink orders shouted her way from those who surrounded it. Grabbing the remote from its holster on the way past, she braced her hands on the mahogany, and sprung up onto the bar top. Then she thumbed the remote, silencing the music. She put her fingers to her lips and cut a shrill whistle. “I need the Brand-McIntyre clan in the kitchen.”
Then she jumped down and headed in there herself.
Within minutes they were all crammed into the kitchen, and Ned, the saggy faced old cook was sent scurrying out to do what he could for the customers. Vidalia and Bobby Joe, Vidalia’s five daughters and five sons in law, Caleb’s father Cain, Selene’s brother-in-law Casey, Jimmy’s best friend Colby, Sophie’s cousins Jason, Rob, and Joey surrounded her.
Her family.
She got a lump in her throat, and knew this was right where she belonged. She cleared her throat and said, “There’s a teenage boy out there and he might be in trouble. His name is Max and his mom died recently. He’s all alone and it’s Christmas Eve. Will you guys help me look for him?
“Dang straight we will,” Vidalia shouted.
There was immediate, noisy agreement, and Sophie told everyone what the boy looked like and where she’d last seen him. She saw curious looks when she mentioned that Darryl had already gone after the kid, but no one asked questions. They just nodded and headed out. Kara’s husband Jimmy Corona worked for Big Falls’ tiny police department, and said he’d contact Chief Wheatly and fill him in. Jason and Joey said they’d see to the few guests who hadn’t already left the saloon, and then would head out to join in the search. Everyone jumped into action.
And all she’d had to do was ask.
Yeah, this was where she belonged. Here, with this amazing bunch. No question about it. And she was pretty sure Darryl and Max belonged here too. She hoped they would agree.
Oklahoma Christmas Blues Page 26
