Her eyes moved across his face, his posture, the room, the door, the distance between them, everything she needed to judge his intentions. She was not naive, even in her weakened state. She had lived through enough to know that kindness could be a trap. Finally, she spoke, voice rough from thirst and fatigue. Why did you help me?
Elias expected the question eventually. He answered it without hesitation. Because you were alone in a bad place. Anyone would have done the same. She gave a tight shake of her head.
No, they wouldn't. He didn't argue. She was right. Not everyone would have stopped. Not everyone would have offered water, food, or a cabin with an unlocked door.
Elias moved toward the stove to serve himself a small portion of food. Keeping his back partially turned so she wouldn't feel watched. He made sure every gesture was slow, easy to follow. If you tell me where you were heading, he said, I can take you there. We're close enough that you won't run into trouble.
Her reaction was immediate. Fear mixed with instinctive resistance. I don't need you escorting me. You don't, Elias answered calmly. But you might need someone riding nearby for a day or two.
The desert's rough, and you weren't looking too steady last night. She opened her mouth to refuse again, then paused. Elias noticed her hand trembling slightly as she held her bag. She didn't want help, but she knew she was not in a state to walk alone through open desert. She didn't answer him directly.
Instead, she asked the question she had avoided since yesterday. Who are you? Elias Ward, he said. Ranch hand drifter. Nothing more.
She studied him again, her breathing slowly evening out. And why are you out here alone? He debated whether to give her the short answer or the honest one. She wanted honesty. He could see that in the hardness of her gaze.
So he gave it because I don't have a place that makes sense to stay in anymore. He said, "Lost my brother, lost the ranch after that. Been keeping to myself since. " Her eyes didn't soften, but her posture changed. She understood loss.
He could see it in the stillness that fell over her face. "I'm at sa, " she finally said. I was supposed to meet my family near the northern ridge. We were separated. I don't know where they went.
Elias nodded once then. That's where we'll head. If that's what you want. She looked down at her hands, weighing the decision. Every part of her screamed caution, but necessity pressed her forward.