Shamrock Ranch

Chapter 6: Shopping and School

It was Wednesday, Luke still had her home, since he still needed to get her things to start school, the school didn't mind and just sent her more work sheets, to Penny's dismay. Though today she gets to go shopping.

She thought about her sick days, every time she woke up one of her brothers was there seeing if she was alright. Luke still had work to do on the ranch but when he was done, he called and ask how she was. Penny paused. All dressed and ready for the day. Penny smiled, she hadn't felt like this in a long time, she wasn't tired and she was hungry.

She made notes in her head she had made her bed setting all her stuffed animals on it. She had pulled the blue bear and peanut butter stuffers around Warren. Walking into the hallway and down to the kitchen. She felt a little more hungry even though it was just after breakfast. But it was 7:30 so she thought she missed any extra food that was cooked. She went to the stove to cook some eggs for herself, she got the fire going and was cooking when someone walked in.

"Penelope Hope," Luke said, "Little lady, what did I tell you?"

Luke heard the stove click as he was walking to go check on Penny. Seeing her at the stove with the fire on high and her standing so close. He hurried over to her. Penny had looked up a little startled. Luke took the spoon, swatting her bottom once not hard but a warning. Then gently lifted her off the chair and setting her on the ground. "I...but I...I just wanted to make some eggs."

"I understand that, but the rule is you do not. And I mean not use the stove without an adult. I know you probably used it in the past, but you are not to use the stove top. Not until Rhett clears you which won't be for a bit. So, for now you are to get someone. So, why didn't you? If you are still hungry there are snacks and extra food in the fridge that you can warm up in the microwave. If you want something on the stove, I want you to tell one of us."

"I can go in the fridge?"

Luke's heart hurt at her words, he pulled her close and kissed her head.

"You can get anything you want. I mean if it's candy I would like to do ask, but if you want anything in the pantry or the fridge you are welcome to it. If you are unsure, let me know. If you can't find me you can ask anyone okay?"

"Yes, sir."

"Though you broke a rule. Can you tell me why?"
"I..I forgot about that rule," she said softly.
"Okay next time you'll be in trouble,"
"Can I use the oven?"
"No, ma'am,"
"That sucks I'm fine at cooking,"
"Never said you weren't. Right now, though we just don't want you to get burns. Propane gets very hot and Sammy melted a pan once, now then are you still hungry ?"

"Yeah," she said shyly.

"That's good, how do you feel about the city. Today. Austin said you are excited."

"...I..." she started to play with her necklace.  Her anxiety showing Luke removed the eggs from the heat and squatted down in front of her.

"What's wrong?"

"What if I don't like the city? I mean I really liked the Emerald city; I don't like new cities I guess."

"Is that why you didn't want to go a few days ago?"

"Yes....sir."

"Why didn't you say that Penny it's okay to be scared," Luke said softly, "change is scary. But just know we will be there whenever you need us, understand?"
"Yes, sir."
"That's my girl, alright do you want cheese on your eggs?"

"Yes, please," she said softly, after she ate, and Luke was pleased that she ate as much as she did. Including some sausage, not liking bacon Luke ate it for her. After she was done, he gave her a smile then felt her head it was still warm to him. Being more on the protective about her being sick.