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Stockton’s expression drooped in degrees, and his tone mellowed to an even sincerity she almost believed.
“I can see it pains you. I am so sorry.”
“How…” The question was so thick she could not speak. The sudden charade draped back, revealing only the raw emotions she had not the fortitude to hide.
Joseph’s strengthening grip on her shoulder deepened as he finished what she could not. “How did he die?”
Stockton’s mouth bowed down. “His heart failed him.”
Large, heavy tears plunked from her eyes. The lie she had known was coming crashed against her with a force she miscalculated by harrowing degrees. She curled her toes in her shoes and gripped the soft cushioned seat to keep from fleeing. His heart had not failed him. He gave it. His life for hers.
“Was he given a proper burial?” The demand that carried in Joseph’s voice startled.
Stockton nodded, his eyes trained with remaining distrust upon him. “He was. Upon the hill beside his wife. Captain Higley saw to his burial, and I can assure you, Higley would have treated him as his own.”
A flick of rage sparked and popped like a dry log thrown onto a fire, and she clasped the major’s stare. Ripened accusations stung her tongue. Instead, she swallowed the sharp words with a wince and focused her attention on her hands.
“The other question then begs an answer.” Joseph’s tone was humble yet commanding. “How does it happen that you should have stopped at our humble dwelling? I must only assume you are in need of something we can provide.”
“You are right, Mr. Young.” Tension rising around his eyes, Stockton paced toward the fire, hands clasped behind his back. “Fools that the rebels are, they have taken much of what belongs to the king, leaving our army with little to defend against their wily ways.” His gaze went to Hannah. “So, my dear, we came to ask your uncle for the use of his foundry for the duration of the war, and he was most willing to oblige. But alas, he fell that night, and we were unable to revive him.”
The lies continued to compound, their weight pressing ever harder on her back.
Thankfully, Greene filled the stifling silence. “We shall be here for some time, as the king will require our every effort.”
“I may be able to be of some assistance.” Smooth and rich, Joseph’s timbre swelled through the parlor.
“How is that, Mr. Young?” Stockton eyed Greene before facing Joseph in full. “You would offer your services to the king?”
“I would.”
The major cant his head. “Go on.”
Joseph took another step forward, the imposing height and breadth of him demanding attention as much as his voice. “I am a blacksmith by trade, but I am well versed in the skill of foundry work. I could lead your men in the job. That is, if you have not already chosen a man for such an occupation.”
Humming his reply, Stockton pivoted to Greene, whose expression remained ever unimpressed. Hannah peered at Joseph, moving her hands beneath her legs as she sat, both to warm them and hide the sudden shaking she couldn’t ease.
“What do you say to that, Greene?” Stockton asked, as if he’d already made up his mind.
“I will accept your recommendation, sir.”
Looking to Hannah, Joseph spoke again. “If you are willing to allow us to stay on here, my cousin could cook and wash for you while I assist in the production of goods. I do believe it would be worth your while.”
As if enlivened by the thought, Stockton pulled his shoulders back. “That is a tantalizing suggestion indeed.” He swung his gaze to Hannah. “And you would be willing to do such a thing? ’Twould be only myself—the main camp is stationed two miles from here, where the other men will be. Your work would be minimal.”
She clung to the opportunity as one clung to the reins of a runaway horse—wanting to release the sobs of grief but needing the strength behind their sorrow. This was their chance. Had not God orchestrated it just for them? “I am grateful to serve the king in memory of my uncle.”
“Excellent.” Stockton’s eyes seemed to take in far too much of her, and she shifted in the seat. “Most fortuitous indeed.”
Tossing a look over her shoulder to Joseph, Hannah prepared to speak, but he did first. “You must understand that with my cousin the only woman in the house, there will be rules of propriety that must be respected.”
“You needn’t worry on that account, Mr. Young.” Bowing slightly, he grinned. “In point of fact, there are things I would wish to speak to you about. Alone.”
“I understand.” Hannah stood, grateful for the forced solitude she hoped would quell pains that rained like a summer gale. “I should like to visit my uncle’s grave.”
“Indeed.” Stockton bowed again, and she curtsied in response.
Joseph caught her arm as she passed, his hidden glare a warning only she could see. She grinned slightly and touched his hand with hers. “I shall return and prepare supper before long.”
