Chapter 43

　　When Ben Comes Calling

　　“Imara, would you mind answering the door for me? I’m afraid Shaw might pull another card if I leave.” Thorin tapped his foot while he and Shaw played cards at the kitchen table. “It’s not possible that you beat me every hand, you damn cheat.”

　　“Who in the world could that be this time of night?” With her hands behind her back, Imara pulled off her apron as she passed through the foyer. “Mighty late for someone to come calling, don’t you think?”

　　Thorin chuckled to himself as he drew another card and yelled out to Imara. He couldn’t give her many blessings, but he hoped this would make up for everything. “Maybe your wolf friend learned how to knock, Sweet Girl. He’s got awful good manners, at least.”

　　After she straightened her dress and gave her hair a shake, she pulled open the door and gasped. “Why, hello, Ben. What are you doing here?”