Chapter Four
Elizabeth clutched Madeline’s hand, looking at the tiny fingers entwined in hers, held with such open trust even though they’d only just met. The resilience of children amazed her. Emotions unmasked, uncomplicated. She’d saved her from drowning, therefore Elizabeth was someone to be trusted. The knowledge made her feel a little breathless.
Elizabeth couldn’t remember if she’d ever been as trusting as Madeline. She must have been at one stage. Long ago. But that was before she’d learned it was better to distrust before trusting.
“Please, Liz’beth.”
Elizabeth smiled at the child. “Of course. How can I refuse such a request?”
The truth was, she couldn’t. She loved children. She was always drawn to them, she didn’t know why. Maybe it was because she knew she’d never have any
