Page 36 of Mail-Order Brides Wishes
Bryn chuckled. “It belonged to Mrs. Blake’s daughter. Mrs. Blake— I called her Aunt Anne. Anyway, she nurtured my faith.”
“It’s comfortin’ to know there was people who cared for ya.”
“Yes, it is.” Her gaze held his like a rope had been dropped over his eyes, pinning them so’s they couldn’t move. Suddenly, she lowered her gaze. It took a moment before he freed himself of the trapped feeling.
Her words came as a whisper on the wind. “Now we can care for each other.”
The words fluttered into his heart, maybe even into his very soul. “I agree.” He reached for her and pulled her close. She didn’t lean on his chest but held back so she was able to look into his eyes. Again, an invisible rope tied them together. Her smile filled her eyes until he felt it clear through to his toes.
The sound of Susie singing nearby made the two of them draw apart.
Suddenly the singing became a shriek and the two of them were on their feet and rushing toward the child.
Chapter Nine
Guilt stung Bryn’s cheeks as she bolted to her feet. She’d neglected her responsibility to watch Susie. Again. Though in her defense she thought the grove of trees posed no danger to the child.
Flint was ahead of her as they rushed to where the sound had come.
Susie stood in dappled light, her hand outstretched, screaming like she’d been stung by a hornet.
Bryn caught her hand and examined it, but could see no swelling. “Susie, what happened?”
Susie blinked her eyes and choked back a sob. “I caughts a bug. I wants him for a pet but he flied away.” Another bitter cry.
Her heart breaking for the child’s sorrow, Bryn lifted Susie and held her tight. “Hush, now. It’s all right. Bugs don’t like to be pets.”
Susie shook with sobs that came from the very depths of her being.
Over the loud cries, Bryn spoke to Flint. “I think she’s overwhelmed. Like I said, there will be times things are simply too much to bear.”
Susie’s sobs grew quieter, and she squirmed to be put down. She went to Flint and held out her arms for him to pick her up.
He lifted her, his arms stiff. His mouth worked— whether of surprise or confusion Bryn couldn’t say.
Susie leaned her face to his shoulder and sighed as if she’d found a safe shelter.
Bryn’s eyes stung with tears as Flint awkwardly patted Susie and then slowly relaxed, cradling her tenderly. Sweetly.
The three of them stood for a bit and then Susie got down.
Flint rubbed his forehead. “Maybe we should go home.”
“No!” Susie’s face crumpled up, preparing for more tears. “I’s having fun.”
Flint looked to Bryn for her opinion. She shrugged. “As long as you don’t cry.”
Susie nodded and trotted off.
The warm sunshine and cool shade invited Bryn and Flint to wander along the edge of the trees. Suddenly, she stopped.
“I don’t hear Susie.” She studied the surroundings.
“Look.” Flint pointed toward the wagon.
It took a moment for Bryn to locate what he meant. Susie lay on the quilt.
“Think she’s sleepin’.”
