Page 57

Eden reached for the book on the chair arm. The book lay open to the page she’d marked yesterday.

“Do you still want to hear what becomes of our foolish heroine?” she asked.

Jesse’s expression eased. “She’s not yours, is she?”

“I should hope not. I’ve better judgment.”

“That’s debatable.”

Eden opened the book. He listened for several pages before stopping her.

“She’s going to trust that fellow again?”

“She believes he’s changed.”

“Has he?”

“Read on and find out.”

“No need. He’s lying.”

“You’ve condemned him without a trial.”

“Man’s had three chapters to tell her the truth.”

Eden lowered the book. “And here I thought you didn’t care for romance novels.”

“I care when folks are being fools.”

She laughed, and he smiled without looking away.

Outside, a wagon rolled past. Jesse’s left hand lay on the blanket, close to hers near the mattress’ edge. He moved it toward her, then hesitated.

Eden closed the book over one finger to hold the place.

“I’m going to Marmee Chapman’s this evening,” she said. “The women are meeting to share what they know about the men who hurt you.”

“Good. Someone ought to.”

“You don’t mind?”

“You think I’ve got you hired to sit here every hour?”

“No.”

“Then go.” He paused. “Come tell me what they learn.”

“I will, provided Whit has no objection.”

Jesse frowned. “Since when does Whit tell you what to do?”

“Since some of it may concern his investigation.”

“Fair enough.”

His fingers moved again, brushing the back of her hand. This time he didn’t withdraw them.

“Eden?”