Page 174

"I have it written down. I've read it eleven times."

For a moment, I couldn't continue.

Then I pressed my palm against the stone.

"You were right."

My eyes burned.

"You were right the whole time, Papa. You knew what they were doing, and you tried to stop them."

I wiped my cheek. "It cost you everything."

I lowered my head.

"But they know now. Your name is clear."

I stayed there for a while, listening to the wind move through the oak.

Eventually, I managed a small laugh.

"I have the estate back."

I looked toward the distant fields.

"It has seen better days, by the way." I smiled. "The bottom acre is full of rushes, the stable's falling down, and there's a hole in the roof big enough to see the stars."

I brushed a leaf from the stone.

"Wat says you told him I could read the land better than your steward."

I shook my head.

"I've decided to believe you meant that."

The leaves rustled around my knees. Then I looked over my shoulder. Guy stood beneath the trees with his hands clasped behind his back. He'd lowered his head, giving me all the time I needed.

"There's someone I wish you could've met," I whispered.

I looked back at the grave.

"He's a sheriff."

And just like that, I could almost hear my father's voice.

That dry, patient voice he'd used whenever I returned from the stables after doing something I knew I shouldn't have done.

Well, Robin. I imagine we'd have a few things to discuss.

I laughed.

The sound caught in my throat and turned into a sob.

I let it.

"I know, Papa."

I wiped my face.