As the weeks passed, the injuries on Anna’s face began to heal. With a little cover-up, they were barely noticeable anymore.
The sound of someone entering the kitchen pulled Stacy from her thoughts.
“Good morning,” Anna stated as she walked over to the coffee pot and poured herself a cup.
“Good morning. How do the ribs feel today?” Stacy asked with a smile as she took a sip of coffee from her mug.
“Sore, but I guess considering it’s not quite three weeks, it’s going to take a while.”
Stacy watched as Anna slowly sat down in a chair at the kitchen table.
Anna appeared deep in thought then spoke. “How about that walk today, so you can show me the river?” Anna asked.
Stacy swallowed hard. She had a feeling Anna was ready to tell her what happened back in New York. She had been very patient despite the men’s push for her to get more information. She wouldn’t do that to Anna. It was her story, her life, and she wanted Anna to always trust her.
“If you think you’re up to it, I can pack a lunch, and we can picnic there.”
“That sounds lovely, but I’m not sure if I can sit on a blanket and then get back up again. The thought of the pain makes me cringe.” Anna chuckled as she scrunched her upper lip and nose.
Stacy smiled. “No worries, we have a table set up down there. We often picnic down by the water during the summertime. You’ll see, in a few more weeks, the temperature will really change and be so hot. The spring is still a bit on the cool side.”
“It’s so nice and quiet here. You’re lucky to have this place as a home.”
Stacy joined Anna by the table, sat down, and took her hand into her own.
“This is your home, too, now.”
Anna dropped her gaze to the table.
“I don’t want to impose and outstay my visit. As soon as I’m healed, I think I’ll move on.”
Anna lifted her eyes, and Stacy was certain she could see the sadness in her eyes. Stacy quickly gained control of her emotions. Stacy patted her hand. “There’s plenty of time to discuss this, no need to make any rash decisions now.”
She rose from the chair and placed her coffee mug in the sink. She washed it and placed it on the drying rack.
* * * *
Anna felt sad. She didn’t want to insult Stacy or push her away, but that was exactly what she was doing.
“I’m sorry,” Anna whispered as Stacy remained facing away from her and toward the window.
“You don
’t have to apologize.”
“I do, Stacy.” Anna released a long sigh, and the tears filled her eyes.
“I feel so…numb,” Anna admitted.
Stacy immediately turned toward her.
“I hurt…so much inside.” Anna covered her face and began to cry. She hated every ounce of herself. She hated feeling defeated and worthless. Her own father didn’t even want her.
Stacy pulled Anna into her arms.
“It will get easier, Anna. I promise, the longer you stay here and begin your new life, the better things will get. I love you.”
Stacy and Anna looked up as she heard the floor creak. Charlie stood in the doorway, his eyes crinkled and a look of concern on his face.