His Perfect Love

Chapter 2

When Riley next awoke, Allison was sitting in a chair reading a book.

"Oh good, you're awake. You missed dinner, so Clayton and I ate. Do you think you might be able to handle some applesauce?"

"Maybe a little bit," Riley told her.

"It won't take but a moment to go get it," Allison said and was gone.

Again, Riley sat up and winced for the pain in her ribs. She would just have to endure the pain. Hopefully she could stomach some food. She brushed damp hair from her sweaty face. Allison returned with a small bowl of applesauce and a tin cup of water. She handed the bowl and spoon to Riley and set the cup on the nightstand.

"Now, remember to eat slowly, and if you feel sick let me know," she gently told her.

Riley nodded and began slowly eating. After a few bites and a few minutes later, it stayed down. She attempted some more bites. Waited a little. She continued to eat as it stayed down.

"Good. That's it," Allison lightly coached her.

Riley finished the small bowl. Next she took small sips of water. She also took a few deep breaths.

"Don't overdo it."

Riley nodded to this. She set both bowl and cup on the stand. She looked Allison in the eye.

"I can't thank you and your husband enough. I don't know how I can ever repay your generosity. I'll figure out a way someday, I promise," Riley said in all seriousness to Allison.

"My husband?" Allison asked, confused. "Oh you mean Clayton. He's not my husband, he's my older brother."

"Oh, I'm sorry I assumed that," Riley said.

She smiled and said, "It's fine. It's just Clayton and me out here. People tend to think that until they get to know us."

"Just you and Clayton? What happened to your parents?" Riley asked Allison.

"They died," she said softly. "It's still a touchy subject with me and Clayton. It still hurts," she answered.

"I'm so sorry," was Riley's only response.

Allison shook her head as if to clear away bad memories.

"Anyways, we are happy to take care of you. The way I see it is that it is our Christian duty to help others in need. Plus, I really wanted someone else to talk to."

"You don't get a lot of visitors?" Riley asked.

"Oh I do, but lately everyone has been really busy. One of my friends got engaged recently and some work," Allison responded.

"How old are you, Allison?"

"I'm nineteen years old."

"And you're not married yet?" Riley asked, shocked.

"No, not yet. I guess I'm waiting for the right man. The man God chooses for me. But I sure do get lonely here, with Clayton working so much."

"Well, I hope you find him soon," Riley said after a pause.

"Thank you. How are you feeling? Are you feeling sick at all?"

"I'm fine, not sick."

"That's good. You should keep eating light for a few days to get your stomach back on track. Then we have to get you eating more. You're like a tumbleweed, ready to be blown over with a big gust of wind. But you won't have to do any hard work, with your ribs still on the mend and all. That should help you to gain some weight," Allison said with a smile.