Henry. Grant's voice carried across the ranch. No answer. Walter looked up from the tack shed. Grant pointed toward the barn.
Don't chase him. Just make sure he doesn't get near a horse. Walter nodded once and started walking. Grant remained on the porch. His left hand closed around the railing.
For a man who could move quickly when cattle broke a fence. He suddenly looked unsure of which direction to take. Hannah came outside behind him. He heard enough. Grant's jaw tightened.
He heard the worst part. He heard the part you hid. Grant looked at her. The words had come sharper than she intended. She did not take them back.
Inside, Molly began crying. Not loudly. That thin, frightened sound was worse. Hannah turned immediately. Marion had crouched beside the girl near the stairs, but Molly twisted away from her and ran straight to Hannah.
Hannah caught her. Am I going? Molly's hands clutched the front of Hannah's dress. No one is putting you in a wagon tonight. Tomorrow?
Hannah looked toward Grant. He had followed them inside. Molly did too. Papa. Grant removed his hat.
No. The girl stared at him. Then why did Aunt Marion bring my clothes? Marian's face fell. Grant looked at the vise by the stairs as though he had only just noticed what it meant sitting there.
Because I asked her to come before Miss Pierce arrived. Molly pressed closer to Hannah. Why? Grant swallowed. Hannah saw it.
That tiny movement in his throat. Because I thought you might be happier in Helena. Molly shook her head immediately. Grant crouched. Even kneeling.
He was almost eye level with Hannah standing. I was wrong to keep it from you. Molly's mouth trembled. You don't want us? Grant's face changed.
No. He reached toward her, then stopped before touching her. No, Molly. That isn't it. Then why?
Because I want you enough to be afraid of doing wrong by you. The little girl did not understand. Hannah barely did. Grant tried again. I thought maybe wanting you here was selfish.
Molly looked at Hannah, then back at him. I want to be here. Grant nodded. I hear you. Molly stared at his hand.
Slowly, she reached for it. Grant closed his fingers carefully around hers. The moment did not last. A barn door banged outside. Grant stood.