Skin Walkers: Monroe Read Online Free Page B

While it was comforting, it also served as a reminder to Eden just how lonely her own cabin could feel regardless of the fact that she’d welcomed in four abandoned children.
    Per the typical routine, Eden and George sat in silence waiting for Dorothy to pour them coffee and set a plate of warm biscuits and honey on the table before Dorothy finally joined them.
    “So,” George began, “I told Robert about our panther.  Don’t think he believed me.”
    Dorothy smiled cutting in, “Well you can’t blame him.  I wouldn’t believe you if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes.”
    Eden cut into a biscuit and scooped a spoonful of honey over one half, earning her an approving nod from Dorothy. 
    “You’re certain it wasn’t a dog or wolf maybe?”  She bit into her honey covered biscuit, letting the crusty sweetened flakes melt in her mouth.
    George scratched at the scruff of his chin.  “Thought it was a bear at first, but it was definitely a cat.  Long thin tail, short, cropped ears, yellow eyes.  Looked right at us then bounded off into the trees.”
    Eden had finished the first half of her biscuit and was spreading honey on the other half.  “Well, if you ’re certain it was a panther I trust your judgment George.  Problem is that means someone’s got an exotic pet on the loose.”
    Dorothy ’s soft worn features contorted into genuine concern as she eyed the window. “Isn’t it too cold out for a panther?  They can’t survive these temperatures.”
    Eden set her biscuit on the small plate Dorothy had provided and smiled.  Leave it to Dorothy to be more concerned about the panther’s welfare than her own.  “I’ve heard of black cougars even black bobcats in the southeast, but you’re right our climate is too cold.”  Eden stood, reaching in her pockets to retrieve her gloves.  “I better get cracking; I don’t want the poor thing to die 'cause I’m in here stuffing my face with your delicious biscuits when I ought to be working.” 
    George stood and walked her to the door.  “You’ll let us know when you catch it?”
    Eden smiled and used a gloved han d to pop the last half of honey-slathered biscuit into her mouth.  They knew her well, and it wasn’t a question of if she caught the panther, but when she caught the panther.
    “I will George,” she spoke around the bite of food.  “In the meantime keep Ruby and Ruger close to the house.” Eden smiled as Dorothy approached.  “And keep her,” she motioned with her head toward Dorothy, “even closer.  We don’t know if it’s dangerous, but even if it has been a pet for years, it’s still a large predatory animal.  Don’t take any chances.  If it comes around and gets to close for comfort, shoot it.”
    George cleared his throat, “One more thing.  Can’t be sure, but I thought I saw a collar on the animal.”
    Eden sighed, “Well, then I guess that just verifies that it is , in fact, a pet on the loose.  Don’t worry; I’ll take care of it.”
    Dorothy shoved a basket into Eden’s hands, “Some biscuits and honey for you and the kids to have with supper tonight.”
    “Thank you Dorothy,” Eden bent and hugged the older woman before straightening and shaking George’s hand.
    “Hey,” George began without releasing her fingers, “what have you heard about that StoneCrow fella that bought the old William’s place?”
    “Not much.  He already ow ns roughly three hundred acres and is expanding his wildlife preserve and rehabilitation facility.  Apparently he’s got the money to do so.”
    “Is he married ?
    Eden felt herself blush; she knew where this was going.  “Not sure Dorothy.  I’ve only met him once and…”
    “You met him?” Dorothy’s eyes lit with interest.  “Is he old?  How does he look?”
    “No, he’s not old , bout my age I guess.  He’s…”
    When Eden didn’t answer Dorothy prodded, “Handsome?” 
    Eden pulled her hand from George’s grip even as the old-timer