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to make conversation. That feeling of being protected was too pleasant for her emotional comfort.
    â€œSome people think so. Others would dispute that title,” he said with an undertone of amusement. “I don’t claim to write great literature, by any means.”
    â€œWhen do you find time to write? I assume you work here at the lodge. Are you a hunting and fishing guide?”
    A short pause, then he said, “I do some guiding, yes. I do most of my writing during the evenings and in winter. What do you do with your time, Miss Obermeier?”
    â€œMostly I help my father run the farm and help my mother run the household.”
    â€œWho’s running the farm and household while you’re all away?” he asked.
    â€œMy father hired a man to look after the farm, a Mr. Parker, who— Aaack !”
    A huge, panting creature emerged from the darkness and leaped upon Monte’s chest, knocking him back a step. Just as Marva drew breath for another shriek, Monte clapped his hand over her mouth, holding the back of her head with his other hand. “Hush!” he said, his voice full of laughter. “You’ll have every guest in the place panicked! It’s just my dog, Ralph.”
    She looked up at him and caught the glint of moonlight in his eyes. Humiliation rolled over her like a wave. He must think her an utter fool.
    â€œCalm now? No more screams?”
    She nodded, and he released her head. “I’m sorry I grabbed you that way. All I could think of was our sleeping guests. It’s late, you know.”
    The dog panted and huffed around their feet, sniffed at a nearby tree, and then plunged down the slope toward the lake. “He probably caught scent of the raccoons that frightened you earlier,” Monte said.
    Marva’s overtired brain projected images of her being clasped against this man’s broad chest, his hand stroking her hair. She drew a deep breath and forged ahead on the dark trail.
    He caught up with her in a few strides. “Are you all right? Miss Obermeier, I’m sorry Ralph startled you.”
    â€œI am very tired, Mr. Van Huysen.”
    â€œCall me Monte, please. Are you angry?” He seemed genuinely concerned, watching her face as he kept pace at her side. Large lanterns framing the lodge doorway guided her steps.
    â€œI’m not angry; I’m exhausted, Mr. Van Huysen. If I awakened any of your guests, I am truly sorry. A good night’s sleep should restore my good sense, but. . .how do I locate my parents’ room?”
    â€œYou haven’t been to your room yet?”
    â€œNo, I was helping Beulah and Myles with the children.”
    â€œWe’ll check at the desk.” When she tripped over something on the path, he said, “Won’t you please take my arm again? I know this path like I know my own face. Too many roots and rocks lying in wait to trip you up in the dark.”
    She laid her hand on his forearm and sensed his satisfaction. She would have to guard her heart closely against this charmer. He was nothing like serious Myles, she realized. And she liked the differences.
    While Monte scanned the lodge ledger for her parents’ room number, Marva studied the expansive foyer built entirely of polished logs. The antlered head of a huge deer surmounted a rock fireplace, and a standing black bear waited in the dining room doorway, its mouth open in a snarl. Thick rugs lay scattered about on the gleaming hardwood floor. Oil chandeliers made from deer antlers hung from the square-beamed ceiling, casting a romantic glow over the room. Birch boughs lined the arched doorway into what might be the dining hall. A grandfather clock located between two doors indicated ten minutes past eleven.
    â€œThe halls should be lit, but you might need a lamp once you get into your room. Wait a moment and I’ll find one for you.” He tapped her elbow.
    She nodded. From any other man she would have resented