JULY 6, 1860
Daniel pulled out a chair for his wife than sat beside her. They were at the Silver Spoon waiting for Meghan and Luke. Tonight they were going to celebrate Meg's medical school test scores, and Serena and Daniel were going to tell the younger couple that they were expecting.
Luke entered the restaurant fifteen minutes later without his wife.
"I'm sorry I'm late." He said.
Serena smiled. "That's alright. Where's Meg?"
"She said to tell you that she was sorry, but she couldn't make it tonight. She's not feeling well." Luke didn't want to tell them she was still having bouts of nausea. The couple had decided to wait to tell her parents that she was pregnant.
"Is she alright? Maybe I should go take a look at her." Daniel said.
"No that won't be necessary. It�s just a slight headache. She'll be fine after a nap. Meg's been running herself ragged what with the wedding and the tests. She just needs some rest."
Serena frowned. "We were so hoping to discuss both your birthdays and to congratulate Meg on her test scores."
Luke shrugged. "Maybe we can get together soon. I know Meg really wants to see you both."
"Alright then we'll reschedule." Daniel said. "Will you be staying for supper, Luke?"
"Yes, Meg insisted that I do." Luke replied.
"Good. How�s business?" Daniel asked.
"Can't complain, we have our ups and downs, and Corey seems to be catching on quickly. Could be worse I could be switched."
Serena laughed. "Can you believe it? I almost feel sorry for some of the citizens."
Daniel laughed heartily. "I'm glad I'm the only doctor in town or else I'd be worried."
"You're forgetting about me." Serena said.
Daniel lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles softly. "Yes but not everyone knows you're a practicing doctor."
"Well, all I know is I hope I don't get switched. I'd hate to have to leave Meg."
Serena arched an eyebrow. "Would you have to?"
"Some have. I know some of the Pony Express riders have had to switch living arrangements with the men taking their places."
"Well I'm glad it's temporary. There's something eerie about seeing Cody running the store." Daniel said.
"Yeah, and at least it's for charity." Luke replied.
Serena sighed. "And a good one at that. This town needs a church."
"Why do you say that?" Daniel asked.
"Because of that place that opened up. It's going to cause nothing but trouble."
Luke smiled. "I think you're overreacting Serena."
"Am I? Ask any woman in town what she thinks and they'll all tell you the same thing. That brothel is going to cause problems."
Luke and Daniel exchanged amused looks.
"Not everyone is secure in their marriage as you two. And don't forget Meg is still very young, and she can be hurt easily."
"I'd never hurt Meghan." Luke said defensively.
"Not intentionally no. But the fact is I've seen you at the square dance lessons with that woman. She works there doesn't she?"
Luke nodded. "Yes but-"
"Just be careful Luke." Serena said softly.
From there their conversation turned to simpler things such as the weather and determining another date for another supper get together.