“Sir?”
“You interrupted supper.”
That evening changed everything and nothing.
Will still owned a livery.
Rose still worked at the store.
Crestfall still talked.
But something invisible had moved.
Will crossed the street the next morning carrying coffee.
Rose looked at the cup.
“What is this?”
“You bring everyone else coffee.”
“I thought someone should bring you some.”
Rose took it.
“Did George tell you to do this?”
“No.”
“Good.”
Will leaned against the counter.
“Am I improving?”
“Marginally.”
He smiled.
Rose tried not to.
Failed.
At six the following evening, Edward Marsh arrived precisely on time.
His boots were polished.
His coat clean.
His expression certain.
Rose met him at the Callahan porch.
“Mr. Marsh.”
“Miss Callahan.”
He removed his hat.
“I have come to ask you something serious.”
“I know.”
He studied her.
“I could make a long speech.”
“You could.”
“I suspect you would prefer I did not.”
Rose smiled slightly.
“You know me better than people think.”
Edward nodded.
“I can offer stability.”
“Land.”
“A good house.”
“A life where you would never need to worry over money.”
Rose listened.
Edward continued.
“I respect you.”
“I admire you.”
“And I would be honored if you agreed to become my wife.”
He paused.
“Will you marry me?”
Rose looked at him.
For one moment, she thought about what that life would be.
Safe.
Comfortable.
Respected.
Edward would likely treat her well.
That made refusal harder, not easier.
“Mr. Marsh.”
He already knew.
“You are a good man.”
His jaw tightened slightly.
“But.”
“I have already given my word.”
“To Hadley.”
“Yes.”
Edward looked toward Main Street.
Then back.
“I wondered.”
Rose folded her hands.
“I am sorry.”
“Don't be.”
He put his hat back on.
“You never promised me anything.”
“No.”
“I only wish he had spoken sooner.”
Rose almost laughed.
“So do I.”
Edward’s expression softened.
“For what it is worth, he looked terrified yesterday.”
“That improves my mood.”
Edward smiled.
Then stepped down.
“Be happy, Miss Callahan.”
“You too.”