Hawthorne now," Mara said, climbing down from the wagon with her head high. "We married yesterday." Thomas's smile didn't reach his eyes. "How convenient and so quick, one might almost call it suspicious." "One might call it none of your business," Silas said quietly. The sheriff shifted uncomfortably. "Mr.
Hawthorne, Mr. Avery here has filed a formal petition with the court regarding the welfare of Daniel Ellington's children." "I'm just here to verify facts." "What facts?" Mara demanded, her voice shaking. Thomas pulled papers from his coat. Facts like whether it's appropriate for a grieving widow to remarry mere weeks after her husband's death. Facts like whether seven children should be living in a one- room cabin in the middle of nowhere with a man who's little more than a stranger.
Facts like whether you, Mara, are truly fit to raise these children in such circumstances. Rage flooded through Mara. How dare you? Silus's hand on her arm stopped her. His voice stayed level.
Sheriff, those children are clothed, fed, healthy, and safe. Their mother is my wife. This is our home. Everything here is legal and proper. Sheriff Cutler nodded slowly.
That's what it looks like to me, Mr. Hawthorne. Thomas's face darkened. Sheriff, need I remind you that I'm the children's closest living relative, that I have every right to ensure their welfare. You signed away that right when Daniel died.
Mara snapped. You wanted nothing to do with us until you thought you could control us. I wanted to help you, Mara. You refused. And now look, living in squalor with a man you barely know.
This isn't squalor. Jonah's voice cut through the tension. The boy had climbed down from the wagon and stood beside Silas, chin raised defiantly. This is our home. Mr.
Silas. P. Silas. He built us a chicken coupe. He fixed the roof.
He teaches me stuff. He's good to us. Thomas looked at the boy with something like disgust. Child, you don't understand. I understand plenty.
Jonah said, "I understand you didn't care about us when we were starving. And now that we're safe, you want to take us away. That's not helping. That's just being mean." Out of the mouths of babes, Sheriff Cutler cleared his throat. Mr.
Braver Avery, I don't see grounds for intervention here. The children appear well cared for. The marriage is legal unless you have evidence of abuse or neglect. Give me time, Sheriff. I'll find it.
Thomas mounted his horse, looking down at Mara with cold promise. This isn't over, Mara. Those children should be with family. Real family, not some drifter you spread your legs for. Silas moved.