"Why didn't you explain to my brothers on the porch?"

"What do you think Cole would have done if he'd known the truth?"

"He would go after them."

Harrison nodded. "I'm giving Livonia 's sons a week to disappear. Otherwise I might have to defend Cole on two murder charges."

She pulled her hand away from his and gently stroked the side of his face.

"Cole would do something foolish. At least I think he would. You were balancing my brothers' reaction against Adam's defense. You did the right thing."

"Thank you for trusting me."

"You needn't thank me. I believe in you. Don't you understand yet? You're part of my family now. We'll argue and bicker and kiss and apologize; we'll lecture one another and offer comfort at the same time; we'll do all the other wonderful things families do. Love is all the strength we'll ever need.

"It's what family is all about."

Dear Children,

Livonia is at peace now. She was given a proper burial last week. I stayed outside the church during the service, and then followed her to the cemetery. I stayed awhile with her after every one else had left, and I said my farewells to her. I shall miss her.

I've found a companion to travel with me, and at long last I'm coming home. There's a town in Kansas, filled with black people who left the South and settled there. I'll rest there a few days and see old friends before I continue the journey.

God keep you until I get there.

Your Mama,

Rose

Adam, dearest, I'm bringing your bride with me.


Of all flowers, Methinks a rose is best.

It is the very emblem of a maid;

For when the west wind courts her gently,

How modestly she blows, and paints the sun

With her chaste blushes! When the north comes near her,

Rude and Impatient, then, like chastity,

She locks her beauties in her bud again,

And leaves him to base briers.

She is wondrous fair.

…Methinks a rose is best.

–from The Two Noble Kinsmen ,

by William Shakespeare

and John Fletcher