Page 38 of A Redemption Mountain Christmas
“Weber or Web…” Clay murmured thoughtfully. “I’ve been in Splendor long enough to know most of the local people. Neither name rings a bell.”
“I could speak with Gabe and some of the other men to see if anyone recognizes the name,” Spencer said.
Clay nodded. “Please do. And inquire about any luggage or belongings found with the children. Those items may offer clues as well.”
“Will do, Doc,” Spencer affirmed. He turned his attention back to the children.
Tommy looked up at Spencer with large, trusting eyes. His sister continued eating, happy to have food and a warm place to stay.
After Spencer departed to begin his inquiries around town, Clay and Eliza found a moment alone to discuss the clinic.
“I must say, Eliza, your rapport with Tommy and Sherilyn is remarkable,” Clay commented appreciatively. “You have atrue gift for connecting with patients, particularly women and children.”
Eliza smiled at the praise. “Thank you, Clay. I’ve always felt drawn to pediatric and maternal medicine.” A thoughtful look crossed her face. “Do you think Splendor is ready for a female doctor? I wonder how the community will respond if I agree to accept a role here?”
Clay considered the question. As a former military surgeon, he’d seen firsthand how someone’s skills and compassion shone through, regardless of prejudices. He also knew times of crisis created different degrees of tolerance.
“Change often requires time and perseverance,” he said. “You’ve already proven your worth here. Continue doing what you trained for and minds will open.”
She looked again at the children before giving a slow nod.
The clinic door opened. Carrie MacKenzie shivered before spotting Clay and Eliza. “The wind has picked up, and it’s snowing again. I hope this doesn’t turn into another blizzard.”
Not long after Carrie’s arrival, the clinic bustled with activity. Ford and Tess Mason entered not long after Carrie, seeking medical attention for their children. Both had been coughing for the last few days.
Clay and Carrie swiftly began examining the sniffling young patients while Eliza slipped away to check on Tommy and Sherilyn. She found them sitting up in bed, faces etched with boredom.
“I wanna go home.” Sherilyn pouted, lower lip jutting out and arms crossed. “When will Uncle Web come get us?”
Tommy flopped back against his pillow. “I don’t know. Maybe he isn’t here any longer.”
Eliza perched on the edge of the bed, concern showing in her eyes. The creak of a floorboard made her turn. Ford Mason stood in the doorway, his expression unreadable.
“Pardon me,” he said gruffly. “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop. But I couldn’t help overhearing about your uncle. What was his name again?”
Tommy eyed the tall cowboy warily. “Uncle Web.”
Ford rubbed his chin. “And what’s he look like?”
“He’s tall and skinny, with gray hair,” Tommy answered.
“His eyes are strange,” Sherilyn said.
Tommy shook his head at his sister. “They aren’t strange.” He looked at Ford. “They’re just light blue eyes.”
After a moment, Ford touched the brim of his hat. “Much obliged for the information,” he muttered. “I’d best get my family back to the ranch.”
His questions and rapid departure left Eliza to puzzle over his odd behavior. As his wagon rumbled off, she sensed Ford might know more than he let on about the children’s uncle. She turned back to the children, who were watching the doorway with wide eyes.
“Do you think he knows our uncle?” Tommy asked.
“I don’t know. Mr. Mason is a good man. If he’s curious about your uncle, it’s only to help figure out why he hasn’t come for you yet.”
Tommy scowled. “Well, I wish he would hurry up.”
“I know it’s hard being away from home. Is there anything I can do to make it better?”
The boy shrugged before looking at her. “Maybe you could help us find Uncle Web.”
