CHAPTER 7

For dinner we had tasty saffron rice with garden peas, a tender roasted beef with plenty of veggies, and a grand fruit torte for dessert. Eleanor prepared everything herself and I was honored to learn her secret recipe as we exchanged stories in the kitchen.

She's a marvel in the kitchen.

It turns out that they lived in London before moving to Montana a year ago, after her husband's death. It was a rueful revelation. Well, she's such a good conversationalist. Or maybe I've just fallen in love with her motherly warmth and tenderness.

Done with the dinner I head back to my room after a half glass of a vintage red wine from Napa, as I was told. Now the only problem is boredom. Sleeping in a new room can be a little tricky. Not for long after, however, Sam drops by once again.

"Any problem, ma'am? I'm busy chasing after my sleep you know?" I tease, pulling my pajamas from the suitcase.

"I see you've found yourself a new bestie, huh?" Sam grins, drawing herself i