“Wow, you’re moving fast. I just want to caution you that nightfall drops like a stone when you’re surrounded by all those trees. Make sure you’re back by six o’clock. Besides, that’s dinnertime.”
A warm rush surged through her veins. His expression of loving concern turned her knees to water.
“Thank you, Samuel.”
She wanted him to know she understood. “I’ll be back by six, and I’ll give you all the help I can.”
“Oh, no need. It’s your day off, remember?” He regarded her, ridges of worry rising on his forehead. “Are you okay here, Echo? Not nervous or homesick? I know Brandon can be a handful. If the strain is too much…?”
“Not at all. I’m very happy here, Samuel. I love it.”
She smiled. He would take the words the way she meant them. He sent her off with a little wave and she climbed
