Page 50 of The Blacksmith’s Wish

“Gowan.”

“Thom.”

The older man folded his arms. “Well?”

Gowan blinked.

“I assume ye didnae come all this way to admire me doorstep.” Thom eyed him up and down. “Then speak, lad.”

He swallowed. “I wondered if…if I might have a word.”

Thom stepped aside, motioning for him to enter. The cottage smelled of fresh oat bread and herbs drying from the rafters. Gowan noticed Effie’s mother glance toward them from the hearth before an unmistakable smile tugged at her lips.

“Oh,” Fiona said with suspicious innocence. “I’ll just leave ye two alone.” She disappeared through the back door before either man could answer.

Gowan had the distinct feeling she’d fled on purpose.

Thom motioned toward the table. “Sit.”

He remained standing. “I’d rather stand.”

“As ye wish.”

Silence settled. Thom simply watched him.

Gowan shifted again. “I’ve come because…”

The older man continued staring.

“…because…”

Finally Thom sighed. “By the saints, lad. If ye’re here to confess ye accidentally burned down me mill, just say so.”

“I didnae burn anything.”

“Good.”

Another pause. “Did ye steal me daughter’s mule?”

“Nae.”

“Excellent.”

Gowan couldn’t decide whether Thom was teasing him or interrogating him. Possibly both.

“I wish to ask permission to court Effie.”

Thom’s face remained completely unreadable. “I see.”

That was all.

Just…

I see.

Gowan waited but nothing else came. The silence stretched until it became downright painful. “So…” Gowan ventured. “What are yer thoughts?”

Thom scratched thoughtfully at his beard before speaking slowly. “I’ve been considering.”