Reed. Please come in." Colton carried the wood inside and stacked it neatly beside the hearth. Without being asked, he took over the task of building the fire, his large hands moving with surprising dexterity among the kindling. "How are you fairing this morning?" he asked, his eyes on his work. Faith sighed.
"As well as can be expected, I suppose. Emma didn't sleep much, which means I didn't either." Colton nodded. Little one, sense these things. He glanced up at the baby who was watching him with curious eyes. She has your eyes.
Faith felt a small smile tug at her lips despite herself. Yes, though her father always said she had his chin. She touched Emma's little face gently, stubborn like him. The fire caught and Colton stood brushing his hands on his worn denim pants. Mrs.
Sullivan, I hope you don't think me forward, but I've been giving some thought to your situation. Faith tensed slightly. She'd been in Silver Gulch long enough to know that a widow with a child was vulnerable, especially one without family nearby. "Oh, the mine gives a widow's pension, but it ain't much," Colton said, his expression earnest. "And I know Thomas hadn't been working there long enough to build up much of a claim.
Faith swallowed hard. No, he hadn't. We have some savings, but she trailed off, not wanting to admit just how precarious her position was. I thought as much, Colton said with a nod. I've spoken to Mrs.
Abernathy at the general store. She's looking for help, especially with the spring shipments coming in. Said she'd be willing to let you bring the little one with you. Faith stared at him, surprised. You you found me work just passed along the opportunity.
Colton corrected. Mrs. Abernath's been wanting help for a while, but most women in town are either married to minors or work at the saloon. He cleared his throat awkwardly. She'd be glad to have someone respectable like yourself.
I don't know what to say, Faith murmured, genuinely touched by his thoughtfulness. Say you'll at least talk to her," Colton suggested. "Store opens at 9:00. I could watch your little one while you speak with Mrs. Abernay if you'd like." Faith studied him for a moment.