Page 82 - Homestead By Ann Newhouse

“What has he agreed to give Mitch and his mother for the property?” I felt nervous as I was not sure what it had cost all those years ago. I just had to trust Sofie and her father to be honest and fair.
“He told me to pay out as the cabin stands, twenty- five thousand dollars. I feel he is being fair in that quote.”
“I agree. Margarete would be pleased to receive that amount. She mentioned the sum of twenty thousand before I left to come to the Homestead.”
We drank our coffee in an awkward silence. I made a move to leave intending to eat in the restaurant, maybe to call on Johanna to find out if her parents had decided to also leave. Sofie took my arm. “Ned I’d like you to stay.” Sofie had that enchanting look, she knew I couldn’t resist, and I’d give in to her wishes.
“Oh Sofie, you know I’d like to stay, but what about your father?” I asked pulling her close and looking into her eyes.
“I’ll give him his supper and medication in his room and settle him down for the night. Give me an hour and I’ll have our supper ready to serve,” she smiled.
I took the opportunity to call on Johanna, I could see she was still in the medical hall, as there was a soft glow from her office window. “Johanna,” I called as I let myself in. “Hello, Ned come in. I’m just finishing up some paperwork,” she explained as she gathered up a pile of files scattered over her desk putting them to one side.
“I need to know what your plans are. Are your parents going to move out or just you?” I asked. “Oh, I’m definitely moving out. I have just secured a private room in the nurse’s quarters in the hospital,” a pleased Johanna revealed. “Good,” I exclaimed, filling her in on Sofie’s reason for not coming back with me. “I suppose it’s understandable, maybe when John gets stronger, she will be running into your arms, as he will probably be back to his old self again,” Johanna said amused.
I discussed the amount John was going to pay for Margarete’s cabin, informing her that we were still a little short to clear Mr. Choo’s payment on the hotel. As promised, she wanted to be involved asking me to leave it with her to find the rest. This I willingly did, as I had enough on my plate. We arranged to meet in the bar later. I informed her I was staying over with Sofie. “You must want to live dangerously,” Johanna called as I left the centre.
I could smell the aroma of cooking as I climbed the steps to the big house. I Kept my fingers crossed that John Tirrell was sleeping like a baby. I was looking forward to a pleasant meal and talk with Sofie. After we finished, she agreed to come to the bar and have just one drink with Johanna as she