Faith wanted to ask what he meant. What had happened that had made him believe himself unworthy of family, but she sensed it was a painful topic. Instead, she said, "Emma is lucky to have you in her life. We both are. The smile he gave her then was so full of tenderness that Faith felt her heart might burst.
That September, Colton's fears about the mine came true. The new vein proved disappointing, and several miners, including Colton, were laid off. Faith worried about what this would mean for his plans, and for them. But Colton seemed almost relieved. "I've saved enough," he told her when he brought the news.
And I've spoken to the owner of that land I mentioned. He's willing to sell for a fair price. He hesitated, then added, "It's a good piece of land, Faith. Room for a bigger cabin, maybe a proper house someday. Garden space.
Room for Emma to run and play." Faith understood what he wasn't saying, that he was planning for their future together, a future he hoped would include her and Emma living on that land with him. When will you move out there?" she asked, trying to keep the anxiety from her voice. "10 Mi wasn't far, but it would mean seeing much less of him." "I thought I'd start building right away," Colton said. "Get the basics up before winter sets in, but I'll still be in town often bringing supplies, checking on you and Emma." Faith nodded, trying to be supportive despite her mixed feelings. "I'm happy for you, Colton.
This is what you've been working toward. Colton studied her face for a moment, then said gently, "Come see it with me, Faith. Tomorrow, Mrs. Abernathy would give you the day off, I'm sure. I want you to see it through your own eyes." The next day, they set out early, Colton driving a borrowed wagon with Faith and Emma beside him.
The September morning was crisp but sunny, promising a beautiful day. Emma was excited by the adventure, pointing at birds and trees and babbling happily. The land, when they reached it, took Faith's breath away. It was nestled in a small valley with a clear stream running through it, surrounded by rolling hills that would provide good grazing. A stand of pine trees offered shelter from the wind, and a natural clearing provided the perfect spot for a cabin.
Oh, Colton," Faith breathed as he helped her down from the wagon. "It's beautiful." "I thought you'd like it," Colton said, his expression hopeful. "There's good soil for gardening over there, and I thought the cabin could face east to catch the morning sun." As he showed her around, pointing out his plans, Faith could see it all so clearly. A cozy cabin with a stone hearth, a garden full of vegetables and flowers, Emma playing safely in the yard. A home, their home.