Surely he would turn. He would finally say it. Grant adjusted the trunk so it would not slide on the rough road. Then he stepped back. Edith will be glad to have you home.
Hannah stared at him. The words hurt so much they almost made her laugh. Yes. Grant nodded once. Henry came onto the porch.
Molly stayed behind him. Neither child spoke. Hannah looked at Grant again. He was pale beneath the sun. His injured shoulder remained stiff.
His hands were clenched at his sides. Still, he said nothing. Something hot rose behind Hannah's eyes. You're really going to let me go? Grant's face changed.
Only a little, but enough, Hannah. No, answer me. The yard went silent. Even Walter found somewhere else to look. Grant took a slow breath.
If going is what you choose, I won't make a prison out of needing you. There it was, that carefulness again. That terrible, honorable carefulness. Hannah's anger broke loose. Do you think that's what I want?
Grant's brow tightened. I don't know what you want. You never ask. His voice dropped. I've been trying not to ask the wrong way.
Hannah stepped closer. Grant did not move. Behind him, Henry held Molly's hand. Hannah looked at the children, then back at Grant. Henry needs me.
Grant's jaw tightened. Molly loves me. His eyes flicked toward his daughter. Molly's mouth trembled. Hannah continued.
This house runs better with me in it. Your accounts are cleaner. The pantry stays full. Walter doesn't have to wonder whether supper exists. Walter muttered from near the wagon.
That part's true. Nobody laughed. Hannah looked directly at Grant. But I need to know one thing. Grant's expression had gone completely still.
She stepped closer until only a few feet remained between them. Ask me to stay for you. Silence. Not the painful silence behind the church kitchen. Not the strained silence after Marian's letter.
This one felt suspended. Grant looked at her as though the whole ranch had vanished behind her. Hannah's hands shook. She curled them into her skirt. Not because Henry needs breakfast.
Grant said nothing. Not because Molly sleeps better. Still nothing. Not because you need help with your house. His breathing changed.