Karen Michelle Nutt by A Twist of Fate Page B

figure him out. “Thank you, Keldon for letting me be here today.”
He pursed his mouth shut, but he managed a stiff nod.
She headed toward the house, relishing in what she witnessed. A small smile curved her lips. She felt like she belonged today.
"Whut’s happened ter you?" Maeve said from the porch, her eyes widening in horror as she caught sight of the blood running down the front of her dress. Arianna was sure the silly grin that was plastered to her face, made the situation worse. “You’s in shock.” Maeve’s hands patted her down and turned her around, obviously intent on finding the wound that had caused so much bloodshed.
"No, no. I'm fine, really. I helped Keldon deliver a healthy baby calf."
"Gud Lord. No wonder you look a sight. We need ter get you out of them clothes and clean you up. You don't know wut I wuz thinkin' when I saw you.”
Arianna followed Maeve up the stairs.
"I will draw a bath."
"It was a miracle that happened before my eyes.” Arianna couldn't stop talking about the experience. "I never saw anything like it."
“Yas’m, ain't a new life wonderful.” Maeve agreed whole-heartily.

****
Keldon washed his hands, and spread fresh hay on the ground. He once again checked on the new family. He was on his way out, when Leighton slammed into him.
"What’s wrong? Keldon questioned as he steadied Leighton.
"What’s wrong, ye ask.” Leighton’s voice had a steely edge to it. "Have ye lost yer senses, lad?” He lifted his hand to reveal Arianna's bloody garment as his gaze wavered over Keldon’s clothes.
"Oh that.” Keldon relaxed, realizing there wasn’t an emergency. “You best get rid of it. Why are ye fussin’ over it anyway?"
Leighton sputtered, cursing under his breath.
"Is there somethin’ else you wish to tell me?"
"Sweet Jesus!” Leighton ran his hand through his hair. “Have ye no sense? I said, take care of Annabelle, no’ kilt her dead!"
Keldon frowned. "What are ye witterin’ aboot?"
"The dress, lad. I see the dress.” He waved the clothing in front of Keldon's face to emphasize.
"Ach, Leighton. Did ye think I ran her through, then?” Keldon was first exasperated, but he soon saw the humor of the situation and began to laugh.
Leighton didn’t share his amusement. "Weel, if this here blood isnae hers, who's is it?"
"She helped me birth the calf.” Keldon pointed behind him, revealing the new offspring.
"We're talkin’ aboot Annabelle here," Leighton said. “It be easier for me to believe ye kilt her.”
"She did help."
Leighton scratched his head, his worn face holding a frown of disbelief.
"I know what ye’re thinkin’.” Keldon shook his head. “Our Annabelle wouldnae have dirtied her hands let alone her clothing, but I witnessed it. She helped without a whimper or a complaint.”
Leighton stared at him. “Have ye lost yer mind?”
"Leighton, do ye no’ think a person can change?"
Leighton’s eyes narrowed. "Tell me yer no’ thinkin' Annabelle has really changed, for ye be a damn fool to think so."
"Aye, but ye witnessed it, too."
"I've seen that she’s put on a good show, I'll grant ye that. But mark my words, the sky is forever blue, and the grass is green and there be nay changin' it. Annabelle be the same person deep inside and doonae be forgettin' it."
 
 
Chapter Ten
 
Arianna spotted Sally Mae heading toward the house and quickly called to her. The child stopped and walked the few spaces back. Arianna didn't miss the fear that flickered across the little girl's face and hurried to put her at ease. "It’s okay, Sally Mae.”
"Maeve says ter let you be and not bother you."
"You aren't bothering me,” Arianna assured her. “Didn't you like playing the harpsichord with me?"
"Yas'm.” A smile spread across her face.
"Why don't you join me,” Arianna suggested. It's such a beautiful day. We could plan a picnic and then afterwards, if you want, I can show you how to play another tune.”
Sally Mae looked over her shoulder. Concern puckered her