Chapter 5 - The Whispering Circle
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Rosie didn't run. She walked with a newfound, careful dignity across the wooden floor, her small hand still resting loosely near Henry’s side as if she were escorting him.
When they reached the back of the hall, Laura dropped to her knees right there on the scuffed floorboards, pulling Rosie into a fierce, tight hug.
"I'm so sorry, baby," Laura whispered into Rosie's hair, her voice thick with unshed tears. "The alternator on the truck died on Route 9. I had to walk two miles to the gas station to get a jump. I tried so hard to get here—"
"It's okay, Mom!" Rosie pulled back, her eyes sparkling. "Look! Mr. Caldwell danced with me! He made my desk at school!"
Laura wiped her face with the sleeve of her green jacket and looked up.
Henry stood two paces back, his hands tucked deep into the pockets of his dark trousers. He looked uncomfortable under the sudden attention, his broad shoulders slightly hunched.
"Mr. Caldwell," Laura said, her voice shaking as she stood up. "I... I don't know what to say. You didn't have to do that."
"Yes, I did," Henry replied plainly. He looked at Laura's red, wind-chapped hands and the oil stain on the cuff of her jacket. "A girl shouldn't have to stand alone when the music plays."
Near the punch bowl, two women in matching pearl necklaces watched the interaction with narrowed eyes.
"Is that Laura Parker?" one whispered, leaning toward her companion. "I heard she's three months behind on her rent at the old mill house. And look at her, talking to Henry Caldwell like they're old friends."
"Henry hasn't spoken to a woman in this town since his wife passed," the other murmured, taking a slow sip of sweet tea. "What is he doing dancing with her child?"
Henry heard the murmurs. His hearing had been sharp since his days on the high-steel crews, and his jaw tightened slightly. He looked down at Rosie, then back at Laura.
"Your truck is at the Texaco on Route 9?" Henry asked.
May you like
Laura blinked, taken aback. "Yes, sir. Frank said he could look at it tomorrow, but—"
"Frank doesn't know a thing about Ford alternators," Henry cut in smoothly. "My shop is a mile down the road. I'll have my mechanic tow it tonight. You two need a ride home."
