“Speaking of building things,” Amy began, pausing to take a bite of her sandwich, “Gail’s coming over to build that treehouse I mentioned. I told her she could start Thursday.”
“Is that so?” Tim raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips. “Well, then I think I’ll swing by the sawmill Wednesday. Pick up all the wood Gail will need.”
“Good thinking.” Amy nodded, her heart swelling at the thought of their future plans—a sturdy treehouse for the children, and perhaps one day, more little feet pattering about. “We need a few more kids to play in it.”
“More kids, huh?” Tim chuckled, leaning back on his hands and looking up at the sky. “Sure, why not? A dozen or so should do.”
“Only a dozen?” Amy teased, nudging him gently with her elbow.
“Give or take,” he replied, his laughter mingling with hers.
Amy spotted a solitary figure perched on a rock at the edge of the creek— Beatrice, her knees hugged to her chest, watching the others with a distant gaze.
“Beatrice?” Amy called softly. She excused herself from Tim’s side and approached the young lady. “Mind if I sit with you for a spell?”
Beatrice shrugged. Amy took it as invitation enough and settled beside her, leaving a respectful space between them.
“Beautiful evening, isn’t it?” Amy asked, her voice gentle. “The water looks inviting. You don’t want to swim?”
“No, thanks.” Beatrice’s reply was short, her eyes fixed on the rippling surface.
“All right.” Amy nodded. “You know, I used to love collecting pretty stones by the creek when I was your age. Ever try that?”
“Sometimes,” Beatrice murmured.
“Found any treasures today?” Amy asked.
“Maybe.” A hint of pride laced Beatrice’s words, and she pulled a small, smooth stone from her pocket.
“That’s a real beauty,” Amy admired honestly.
“Tell me, do you enjoy stories?” Amy asked, tilting her head curiously. “I’m rather fond of them myself.”
Beatrice hesitated, then nodded. “I like books. Ma used to read to me.”
“Is that so?” A soft smile graced Amy’s lips. “What sort of tales did your ma favor?”
“Adventures. And ones with horses.” The words tumbled out more freely now.
“Have you ever ridden?” Amy’s question held a spark of hope. This was familiar ground for her, too.
“Ma taught me.” Pride laced her voice, a sliver of warmth breaking through.
“Would you teach me about your favorite spots to ride around here?” Amy asked.
“Sure, I guess.”
“Then it’s a promise.” Amy felt a surge of triumph. Every conversation Amy had with Beatrice that didn’t end with the girl running away sobbing, felt like a victory.
Their conversation lulled as they watched Tim splashing in the shallows with the younger children. Amy stood, brushing off her skirt. “Come on, let’s join them. The water’s too inviting to resist.”
“All right.” Beatrice’s reply was still guarded, but she rose to her feet.
Together, they waded into the cool embrace of the creek. Tim glanced over, a wide grin spreading across his face as he saw Beatrice approach. “Hey there, Beatrice! Ready to make a splash?”
“Maybe,” she replied.
“Look out!” Tim scooped up a handful of water and playfully tossed it toward them, eliciting delighted shrieks from the children.
