He paused, his green eyes searching hers, and love, of course. Faith felt a blush rising to her cheeks and turned away slightly. Those are good reasons. And you? Do you think you might consider marrying again someday?
The question caught Faith off guard. I I haven't thought about it. Emma has been my focus since Thomas died. Of course. Yates's tone was carefully neutral.
I didn't mean to pry. You weren't. Faith assured him. It's a natural question. I suppose if the right person came along someone who would be good to Emma as well as to me, I might consider it.
But for now, establishing ourselves here is my priority. Yates nodded, understanding in his eyes, a wise approach. As they continued walking, Faith felt a curious mixture of emotions, a flutter of attraction she hadn't experienced in years. Tempered by caution born of hard experience, Yates Turner was unlike any man she'd met before. Strong yet gentle, successful yet humble, and undeniably handsome in a rugged, weathered way that spoke of a life lived outdoors.
But she had Emma to consider and her own heart to protect. By the time they returned to town, the sun was beginning to set, painting the western sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. Yates helped them down from the buggy in front of their cabin. "Thank you for coming today," he said, his voice low and warm. "It was the most enjoyable Sunday I've had in a long while.
We had a wonderful time, Faith replied honestly. Your hospitality was overwhelming. Can we come again sometime? Emma asked, clutching a small wooden horse Yates had carved for her during their visit. Anytime at all, Miss Emma.
Yates knelt to her level. And remember what I said about those kittens one of them has your name on it when they're old enough to leave their mama? Emma threw her arms around his neck in an impulsive hug. Thank you, Mr. Yates.
Faith saw surprise, and then genuine pleasure across Yates's face as he briefly returned the child's embrace. When he stood, his eyes met Faith's over Emma's head, and something unspoken passed between them, a recognition of shared affection for this small, resilient girl. Good night, Faith," he said softly, touching the brim of his hat. "Good night, Yates, and thank you again." As she watched him drive away, Faith felt a curious mixture of contentment and apprehension. Somehow, in just a few weeks, Yates Turner had become important to them both.
The thought was as frightening as it was thrilling. The first day of school arrived with perfect September, weather with her crisp morning air warming to a pleasant afternoon. Faith stood nervously at the teacher's desk, watching as 15 children of various ages filed into the schoolhouse, eyeing her with curiosity. Emma sat at a front desk wearing her best dress and a ribbon Faith had splurged on at the merkantile. She was the youngest student, but Faith had decided she was ready for basic lessons, particularly since keeping her at home alone wasn't an option.