There was nothing in his demeanor that suggested ulterior motives, and she desperately needed the work. "That's very kind of you, Mr. Reed. I'll certainly speak with her." Colton nodded, seeming pleased. "Good, that's good." He hesitated, then added, "I've also brought some stew.
My neighbor, Mrs. Chen, made it. She's a fine cook. Despite what some folks in town might say about her and her husband." Faith knew of the Chinese couple who lived on the edge of town. Like most immigrants, they faced prejudice from many of Silver Gulch's residents.
"That's very thoughtful. Please thank her for me." Colton retrieved a covered pot from outside and placed it on her small stove. Should still be warm. Figured you might not have had time for cooking. The simple act of kindness both from Colton and Mrs.
Chen brought a lump to Faith's throat. Thank you, she said again, feeling the words were inadequate. Well, Colton said, replacing his hat. I should get to the mine. My shift starts at noon, but I've got some errands beforehand.
He moved toward the door, then paused. I'll be back around 8:30, if that suits you, to accompany you to the general store. Faith nodded. Yes, that would be fine. After Colton left, Faith sat at her small table and ate some of Mrs.
Chen's stew, which was delicious despite containing ingredients she couldn't identify. Emma sat in her lap, occasionally accepting small spoonfuls that Faith cooled for her. That missed her. Reed is a kind man, Faith told her daughter, who babbled in response. I suppose we're fortunate he was at the funeral yesterday.
The thought gave her pause. She hadn't noticed Colton among the mourers, though in her grief she'd hardly noticed anyone. Yet he'd been there, and he'd stayed when everyone else had gone. Why? The question lingered in her mind as she prepared for her meeting with Mrs.
Abernathy. She washed herself and Emma, and put on her second best dress, the best being her black morning dress, which still hung damp from yesterday's rain. The dress was a simple blue calico, one of the few things she'd brought with her from Pennsylvania, and it was a bit loose now after the stress of the last few weeks. At precisely 8:30, Colton returned. He'd clearly taken time to clean up, his hair still damp from washing, and his clothes, while worn, neatly pressed.