Chapter 16 - The Child at Their Door
One summer evening, someone knocked.
A boy of perhaps twelve stood outside.
Thin.
Hungry.
Alone.
His mother had died during the winter.
His father had disappeared while looking for work.
The boy's name was Daniel.
Elias gave him supper.
Naelli prepared a bed.
One night became a week.
A week became a month.
Elias pretended this was temporary.
Naelli knew better.
Daniel followed Elias everywhere.
“How do you know which horse is sick?”
“Eyes.”
“How do you fix a fence?”
“Work.”
“How do you know where cattle went?”
“Tracks.”
“You don't talk much.”
“Correct.”
Naelli laughed from the porch.
Months passed.
Then a territorial official arrived.
Daniel would be sent to an orphan institution unless someone assumed legal guardianship.
The boy packed quietly.
Elias watched.
“You going somewhere?”
“They said I have to.”
“What if you didn't?”
Daniel stared.
Elias cleared his throat.
“We've got room.”
Naelli stood in the doorway, smiling.
Daniel looked between them.
“You mean stay?”
Elias nodded.
“If you want.”
Daniel's eyes filled.
He dropped the bag.
Years earlier, Elias had believed his life would end as it had been lived: quiet, solitary, safe.
Now his house contained Naelli’s laughter, Daniel’s questions, neighbors, relatives and children running through the yard.
May you like
He had never been happier.
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