Eli said, letting go of Ruth’s hand and getting to his feet. Mam glared at him. “You don’t know what I think. My daughters aren’t fast girls. You may do things differently in Belleville, but here holding hands is for couples who have publicly stated their intention to marry.” “We weren’t…” Ruth began. “I have eyes to see,” Mam said. “Being alone together like this is unseemly.” She paused and continued in a softer voice. “You know that there is already talk about you, Eli. It’s not fair to Ruth for you to endanger her reputation.” Ruth heard Eli’s temper flare. “We weren’t doing anything wrong.” Mam looked back toward the shop. “Samuel’s buggy is in front. It’s best if you come with me, Ruth.” “It’s the middle of a school day. Why are you even here?” Ruth demanded. Eli was right. They hadn’t done anything wrong. Why did her mother have to assume the worst? And how had she known where to find them? Why was she looking? “Did Anna tell you I was coming to the shop?”
