Chapter 41

When Bill stepped out of his truck, he pointed a finger at them. “You should have called me.”

Ed’s stomach flip-flopped at the distress evident on Bill’s face. “I’m sorry. We thought we’d wait for a decent hour.” Hell, it was barely five-thirty, the sun just beginning to rise. “And you’ve got your own chores to deal with.”

Bill grimaced when his gaze landed on the charred lawn. He scrutinized the side of the house around the bedroom window—or rather, the gaping opening where the window had been—then joined them on the porch. “We’re family now. You don’t hesitate to phone me when something happens. I’ve already made a few calls, and help is on the way.”

“Much appreciated.” Joe’s hand landed on Ed’s shoulder. “But you’ve still got your own animals to take care of. We’ll be moving slow, but we can get it done.”

“Enough!” They both jumped at Bill’s sharp tone. “There are plenty of people who can and wantto help. Don’t insult me or them by refusing it.”