“Yes. She’s with her father.”
He didn’t wait for an invitation, he headed down the hall.
“Anna?” He called before he even reached her father’s bedroom.
“What is it?” She waited at the door for him.
He took a deep breath and gathered his thoughts. This was not how he wanted to leave. And what if she and her father were in danger?
He greeted Mr. Lakeman and told them about the telegram.
“Oh, son. I’m so sorry. But we understand you must leave. Your schooling is too important.”
“Thank you, sir.” He turned to Anna. “I don’t want to leave on bad terms. Again.”
Her shoulders were stiff. “Everything is fine. Don’t worry. Dad and I had a long discussion this morning.”
He looked over her head, but the worry in her father’s face didn’t bring Joshua any comfort.
“I promise I’ll write and fill you in on everything at the dig. That is, if I’m allowed to return to it.” She sent a look to her father.
Oh boy. What had transpired between father and daughter? She was clearly not happy.
What would happen if he stayed? He could spend so much more time with Anna. They could get marriednow.But if he gave up this opportunity, would he ever be able to finish his schooling?
He swallowed. God had given him the gift through the benefactor. Would he squander it if he stayed? Or would it be like a godly sacrifice?
He didn’t want to leave Anna, but he had made a commitment to his benefactor. To his school. He needed to fulfill that. Mr. Bricker had paid a lot of money for him over the years.
Mr. Bricker! Did he know to set up Joshua’s ticket early? He’d have to race to the train station too—
Anna placed a hand on his arm. “I can see you have a million thoughts going through your mind right now. I’m sure there’s a great deal you need to do. Let’s say our goodbyes now. I’ll write you tonight. And I promise to write every week.”
There wasn’t enough time for them to right all the wrongs between them. Especially not in a rush. How could he leave?
His feet seemed frozen to the floor.
“It’s okay.” Anna’s eyes softened. “Go. I love you.”
First, he went to her father’s bedside and leaned over to give the man a hug. “Sir, thank you for everything. Thank you for the job this summer. And thank you for lending me your wisdom. You’ve taught me a lot.”
“You are welcome. I look forward to your return. I want to walk my daughter down the aisle to you.” He reached out and gripped Joshua’s hand. Strong and firm.
“I look forward to that as well.” Joshua turned back to Anna and walked her out the front of her home.
“Anna—”
“Joshua—”
He raised an eyebrow. “You go first.”
“I’ll miss you. And I promise to write.” But her words were stiff. They matched her posture.
Somehow, he had to break down the wall. “I’ll miss you too. I love you, Anna.” He touched her cheek.
“I love you, too.” She looked down at her feet and sniffed.
“Are we okay?”
