Read Online Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland - Free Book Online

reached for the woman’s hand. Her clasp had surprising strength. “Miss Pauline.” His eyes scanned her features as he searched for any sign of recognition. She had his mother’s nose—maybe—and the shape of her eyes favored the Holland side. Somewhat.
    Her faded eyes traced him, and he could see she was having a hard time making the connection too.
    “Goodness.” She pumped his hand. “My own kin. I thought I had lost everyone. You’ve outgrown your clothes, son!”
    “I believe you’re right, Miss Pauline. Miss Mae’s letter came as a real surprise.” His eyes traced again her face, powerless to completely recognize one familiar feature. Most Curtises had brown eyes—and the Hollands had blue or hazel eyes. Pauline’s faded eyes were blue, but not the deep hue his mother had.
    “Well, honey.” She drew him to the table, which was cluttered with dirty crockery and utensils. A cat was licking one dish clean. “Sit down and let me fix you something to eat.”
    Tom smiled. “That’s not necessary. Miss Mae just fed me a huge meal.”
    “You been eating Jeremy’s Sunday fried chicken?”
    “Yes, ma’am. He’s a fine cook.” He sneezed.
    “Oh, now. Call me Auntie.”
    He nodded. She apparently recognized something he didn’t. “You are my aunt?”
    “You said I was.”
    “No. I don’t know if you’re my aunt or cousin or anything. I’m sorry, but I can’t make the connection.” He sneezed a second time, and Mae handed him a dainty handkerchief. It held the scent of sweet jasmine, and he found it quite pleasing.
    Pauline frowned. “You said you were kin.”
    He glanced at Mae. “She says I am.” Another sneeze.
    “He is your kin, Pauline. And he’s here to help.” Mae focused on him. “Are you coming down with a cold?”
    “No, ma’am. I think it’s the animals.” He swiped at his itchy nose and glanced at Mae. How could the woman be so all-fired sure he was related to Pauline Wilson when he didn’t know that himself?
    Pale eyes brightened. “He’s come to stay!”
    His hand flew up in protest. “No, not permanently. I’m just here long enough to figure out our kinship and maybe get you settled somewhere.” Even though she might not be kin, he could perhaps follow through with helping the poor old thing. After all, without a wife and family, he could afford it.
    “I am settled.”
    Mae shot him a “move slowly” glance. The news that family had shown up had obviously unnerved Pauline. Wondering about it unnerved him too.
    “I think we’re tiring her.” She helped the older woman to the couch, pitching a bundle of clothing aside in order to sit beside her. She reached for a blanket and folded it three times to fashion a middle cushion. “Why don’t we all just sit here and visit? Maybe something will ring a bell for one or the other.”
    Tom joined them, and the three sat in silence, like blackbirds lined up on a board fence. Suddenly Pauline leaned out and peered around Mae to look at him.
    “What did you say your name is?”
    “Tom. Tom Curtis.” He felt another sneeze coming on and put the sweet-smelling handkerchief to his nose.
    She shook her head, pondering. “Ain’t got no Curtis kin.”
    “What about Holland? That was my mother’s maiden name.”
    Pauline shook her head. “Nope. Don’t know anyone named Holland.”
    “Pauline,” Mae cautioned. “Try to focus.” She patted the older woman’s hand. “I know it’s difficult, but think. Does Tom show any physical evidence of family traits? Eye color? Hair?”
    She raised her eyebrows. “Yes, they all had hair and eyes.”
    Mae ignored that. “His mother’s name was Holland.” She glanced at Tom. “I believe that’s what you said.”
    Tom knew Mae would give him another scolding look if he didn’t stifle the laugh that tried to make its way out at the old woman’s statement. He nodded. “Beatrice Holland.”
    “Beatrice!”
    He met her faded gaze. “Do you know her?” Part of him wanted a