The Trouble with Patience by Maggie Brendan Read Free Book Online Page B

her hand away.
    He shoved his hands into his pockets. “I have nothing buttime. To tell you the truth, I just got into town. I’m looking for a job, so I’m completely free and at your service.”
    â€œWell, that’s all good and well, and I do hope you find employment. But from your manner of dress, I’d say you’re more suited to ranching. Am I wrong in my assessment?” she asked primly.
    He arched an eyebrow but smiled. “Matter of fact, that’s all I know, but I haven’t been lucky enough to snag employment in that field yet. May I?” he asked, motioning to her list.
    Patience wasn’t sure if he really wanted to help or was only toying with her. Her experience with the ways of men was very limited. But somehow after a moment she found herself handing the list to him.
    â€œAh,” he murmured as he quickly scanned it. “I see you’re planning on doing some painting.”
    â€œWhy, yes. I own Creekside Inn, and I intend to spruce things up a bit.”
    His eyes narrowed. “Is that so? It just so happens that I’m looking for a room to rent, if you have any available. And I do know how to paint.”
    She shook her head. “Oh no, I couldn’t ask you to do that. I do have vacancies, but I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to pay you for your services.” She took the list back.
    His chuckle reverberated from deep within his chest. “It was an offer to help you while I find a job. I can pay for the room and board. I’m also pretty good with a paintbrush. You learn to do everything when you’re not out cattle punchin’.”
    Patience was hesitant. She wondered how he’d be able to pay rent. “I see . . . Well, I can certainly rent you a room, and as far as the painting, we’ll have to see.”
    â€œRight! Now, let’s see about finding the right paint and brushes, then you can lead the way to your inn.”
    He was so friendly and energetic that suddenly she was giving in to his offer to help gather the items. Within a short time, she’d picked out suitable brushes and a paint color and, after a short wait in line, paid for it all.
    Patience led the way down the boardwalk in the direction of Creekside. Her heels tapped a singsong rhythm against the boardwalk with Cody beside her, swinging two buckets of paint. It was a fine, sunny morning, and their pace evenly matched. Suddenly she was in good spirits, anticipating an improved boardinghouse filled with boarders. The man next to her was at least partly responsible.
    â€œI’m determined to improve Creekside Inn to make it more appealing,” she told him. “I’m envisioning pale yellow paint out front to welcome boarders, then a fresh coat of paint for the parlor, along with new voile curtains that I can make myself to give the place a feeling of home and coziness.”
    â€œI’m sure your ideas will improve everything. I’ll just be glad to have a place to lay my head tonight.”
    â€œI believe the more my boarders feel at home, the longer they will reside. By the way, I serve breakfast and dinner for an extra fee. You’re on your own for lunch, and it’s up to you if you want those two meals included.” It was only half a block to Creekside, and soon Patience was swinging the front door open. “Mr. Martin, just set the paint pails here in the foyer for now.”
    â€œPlease call me Cody—my friends do.”
    â€œDoes that mean I’m your friend?” Patience caught herself, removing the silly smile from her face. I sound like a flirt! For goodness’ sake, what was wrong with her—acting thisway toward some man who came along and paid her some attention!
    â€œI certainly hope we can be. I’ve enjoyed talking with you and helping select paint,” he chuckled. His handlebar mustache nearly covered his upper lip, and it twitched with his smile. “Is it all right