Just after nine o’clock and the three children were finally asleep. She had a heck of a time explaining to Jace and Amelia why Daniel had left and would not be back again. It tore her up to see the look of disappointment on Amelia’s little face. She cried and asked over and over why Mr. a’Coy would leave them when her mama still needed help. And she thought since Mr. a’Coy was her friend, he wouldn’t go off without saying goodbye. Chandler’s face was a mask as she explained to them about the war and Daniel’s need to return to it. Supper had been a sad affair. Rosemarie was amazed at how quickly they’d all grown accustomed to the presence of the friendly, helpful man. She also felt the loss of something else. An uneasy, unfamiliar feeling. And she preferred not to name it. Or think much about it. With a deep sigh, she sat on the edge of the bed and struggled out of her clothes and into her nightgown.
