Only now no wagon was coming over the ridge and nobody had asked either of them to play a part. Uncle Wilbur Martha said Miss Hart says she is staying for supper. Miss Hart can tell me herself. Adella looked at him over Ruthiey's curls. I am staying for supper.
The words were ordinary. Wilbur had heard people announced supper plans all his life. None had ever sounded so much like a door being opened from the inside. After the meal, the children were sent inside to wash. Adella remained on the porch.
She had left her coat unbuttoned despite the cold, as if she expected to be there more than a minute. Wilbur stood three feet from her, hat in his hands. "Merritt showed me the final approval," he said. "So did he." "You have your winter school."
"Yes, you have Mrs. Miller's room." "Yes. And you have your own mare, your own wages, and a road out of this yard any morning you want it." A faint smile touched her mouth. Huh?
You have been keeping count. I need to know what I am asking from. I want you to stay in this valley this winter, he said. Keep your room at Mrs. Miller's as long as you please. Keep your school and your money.
I am not asking for a housekeeper and the children already have a guardian. He took one step closer. I am asking for myself. Let me court you properly. No brother to convince and no part to play.
I want you at my table when you choose it. Beside me at the evening count when you choose that, too. If after a season of truth, you still want what I want. I would like us to make this crowd into a family. Adella did not answer at once.
Wilbur held still. Waiting hurt and he let it. Then she crossed the remaining space and caught both lapels of his vest in her hands. I have conditions, Wilbur Jennings. Relief nearly bent his knees.
I would be disappointed if you did not. My school money stays mine. Yes. The west room remains a school room while I am teaching even if one day I live under this roof again. Yes.
And if courtship becomes marriage, you keep paid help for the heavy wash and lie soap. I will teach and I will share a household. I will not become the entire household. Wilbur nodded. Agreed.
One more. He waited. We tell the children only what is true. You are courting me. We do not promise them a wedding, and nobody calls me their mother because they are frightened I might leave.