He nodded. She taught me not to become cruel just because the world can be cruel. Clara looked toward the fire. That's difficult. Yes, you seem good at it.
Taza gave a small smile. Not always. The conversation brought them closer, but trouble was returning to Red Hollow. Clara's stepfather had begun telling people that Taza had kidnapped her. The rumors spread quickly.
Some towns people believed him. Others remembered Clara and knew something wasn't right. Eventually, the local sheriff rode to Taza's ranch. Taza welcomed him calmly. The sheriff explained that there had been complaints.
I've heard Clara is being kept here against her will. Taza looked toward Clara. She can answer. The sheriff turned to her. Clara, do you want to leave?
The question should have been simple. But Clara realized how important it was. She looked toward the road. That road led back to the house where she had spent years being mistreated. Then she looked at Taza's ranch.
This place had become something else. Not because Taza had forced her to stay, because he had allowed her to choose. Clara looked directly at the sheriff. No. The sheriff nodded.
Are you certain? Yes. Do you want to return to your family? No. Do you feel safe here?
Clara looked at Taza. Yes. The sheriff glanced at Taza. Then he nodded. Then that's your answer.
After he left, Clara sat on the porch. She felt strangely exhausted. Taza approached. "You did well. " She looked at him. "I was terrified. " "I know.
I thought my voice would disappear. It didn't. " Clara smiled. Then tears appeared. "I've never spoken like that before. " Taza sat beside her. "What if I'm still weak?
Then tomorrow you become stronger. " Clara wiped her eyes. You make everything sound simple. No. He looked toward the sunset. I just believe people deserve another chance.
She was quiet. Then she whispered, "Do you think I deserve one? " Taza looked directly at her. "You deserve more than one. " Clara's eyes filled again. She lowered her head. For the first time, she allowed herself to cry without apologizing.
Taza remained beside her. He did not tell her to stop. He did not tell her to be brave. He simply stayed. That night, Clara slept peacefully.
But the following evening, she heard horses again. This time, there were more of them. She looked outside and saw several riders gathered near the ranch entrance. Her old fear returned instantly. Taza came into the room.
They're here again. Clara nodded. I know. You can stay inside. She shook her head.
No. Taza studied her. Why? Because I don't want to hide forever. You don't have to face them.