Saving Laurel Springs by Lin Stepp Read Free Book Online

economy has been down and times have been bad, they’ve scrubbed, cleaned cabins, painted, and mended. Bargain shopped for anything and everything. Run garage sales and rummage sales for extra money. Given historic tours and old-time demonstrations.”
    Billy gave Carter a determined look then. “It matters what Rhea thinks. And what Jeannie thinks, too.”
    â€œAnd you think that might be a problem?” Carter watched him.
    Billy crossed his arms. “Well, sure. I heard through Jeannie you’d already had one disagreement with Rhea.”
    â€œIs that right?” Carter was interested. “What disagreement was that?”
    â€œWell, I heard how Rhea ran into you at the covered bridge—and how things didn’t go so well.” He dropped his eyes. “Jeannie told me Rhea said she isn’t much interested in reinitiating a friendship with you.”
    Carter bit down on the smile that yearned to slip out. Evidently Rhea had kept quiet, even to her best friend, about their meeting on Rocky Knob. He guessed she didn’t want anyone knowing about that.
    â€œI’ll deal with Rhea,” he told Billy Wade. “I know you feel proud of all that Rhea’s been doing. I do, too, Billy.” He paused. “I’ve been keeping up with all that through my parents.”
    Carter saw Billy’s surprise.
    â€œIt’s the truth and there’s more.” Again, Carter considered what to tell Billy. “Did you know I’ve been funneling money into Laurel Springs through my parents over the last seven years?”
    â€œNo.” Billy shook his head, obviously surprised.
    â€œRhea doesn’t know that, either. So I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t tell her—or Jeannie—just yet.” He sent Billy a firm look. “I just wanted you to know I’ve been doing my part, Billy. I may have been away but I’ve still kept caring about Laurel Springs.”
    â€œWell, dang.” Billy gave a low whistle. “This sure has been a day of surprises.”
    Carter returned to business. “So, Billy, do you think you’d like to take on the contracting renovations for Laurel Springs?”
    Billy reached over to clap him on the back. “I’d be downright mad if you asked anyone but me. And Ledford Electrical and Contracting will be glad for such a big job. I’ll start working on the estimates right away if you’d like. The next time we meet, you can tell me the priorities you have in mind. Where you’d like to start. What you’d like to see to first.”
    â€œI’ll do that. I have some blueprints for a house for Taylor and me that need priority.” Carter pulled them out of the leather folder to pass to Billy. “Dad and Grampa said I can build on Low Ridge on the old Costner ruins. You’ll know the spot; we used to play there. I don’t want to impose on my folks too long.”
    â€œI sure will enjoy working on that project.” Billy grinned, beginning to unroll the blueprints to look at them.
    Carter stood up. “I’ve got a lot to do today, and I know you do, too. Thanks for the time you’ve given me.”
    â€œHeck.” Billy stood up and gave Carter a clumsy hug. “You’re my best friend from back since we were kids. I hope we’ll be spending a lot more time together.” He grinned. “I’ll have to see if you can still catch a football one day.”
    â€œWe’ll do that.” Carter smiled as he reached over to gather up his folder and extra papers. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Billy’s grin fade to a thoughtful frown.
    â€œWhat’s worrying you now, Billy?”
    Billy shifted uncomfortably. “I guess I was just wishin’ you and Rhea could make some sort of peace. So maybe the four of us could have some good times again like before.”
    Carter gave him a sly glance. “I have a better convertible for us to