I build things to last," Wade replied. Seiya understood there was more in those words than he meant to say aloud. Wade built everything to endure because too many things in his life had failed to do the same. Later, Seiya prepared a simple stew with dried vegetables and a handful of herbs she had gathered near the creek bed. Wade sat at this table cleaning his tools.
Taza rested between them against a folded cushion, watching both adults with quiet curiosity. The cabin felt lived in, not crowded, not tense, shared. You cook often? Wade asked without looking up. Seiya stirred the pot.
When there's food, yes. When there isn't, I make broth from bones. A quiet respect moved through Wade. The woman had learned to survive on almost nothing. You won't have to worry about going hungry here, he said.
There's enough to get by. Seiya did not answer right away. She listened to the stew bubbling over the fire and let herself feel the strange safety of the room. This place doesn't feel dangerous anymore, she admitted. Not to me.
Wade looked at her. Fire light caught the exhaustion still marked beneath her eyes. That's how it should feel. After they ate, Seiya stepped outside to rinse the bowls. Evening light spread across the yard, warming the dirt and fence posts with soft gold.
Taza stood near the porch rail, holding on for balance. Wade remained only a few steps away, close enough to catch him, but far enough not to crowd him. Seiya noticed. You watch him without making it obvious. Wade shrugged slightly.
Old habits, good ones, she said. Taza let go of the porch and managed three uncertain steps toward Wade. He wobbled badly, but there was determination in him now that had not been there before. Wade lowered himself to one knee. Taza reached out and rested one small hand on Wade's shoulder.
It was the first time the boy had gone to him without Seiya guiding him. She watched the moment with an emotion caught somewhere between gratitude and vulnerability. He trusts you," she said quietly. Wade looked at the boy. I trust him.
The answer surprised her. Seiya had known too many men who trusted no one. Certainly not a woman and child who had arrived carrying trouble, grief, and nothing to offer but need. But Wade's world seemed to follow different rules. Rules she was beginning to understand.