Page 55 of Unforgiven

Still shaking, she looked at her phone’s screen. Only two minutes had passed. She had thirteen to go until the deputy arrived. It might as well be thirteen hours. On impulse, she called Seth.

“Tabitha?”

“Did I wake you up?”

“Wake me? Nee. It’s only five o’clock. I was just relaxing after a long day at work.”

“Oh. Of course. Sorry—”

“Hey. Are you all right?”

“I don’t know.”

“What happened? Are you hurt? Do you need something?”

She loved that he always asked about her first. Seth made her feel important and like she mattered in all sorts of ways. “Leon was here.”

“What? Are you alone now?”

“Yes. I-I called the sheriff’s office, but the sheriff wasn’t in. The deputy answered.”

“Did you tell him what happened?”

The patience and concern in his voice soothed her. “I did. Deputy Ernst said he’s on his way over.” She looked at the kitchen clock. “He won’t be here for another ten minutes.”

“I’m on my way.”

Gratitude clutched her heart. “Seth, you don’t have to do that.”

“Tab, would you like me to come over?”

“Yes.” She hated how small her voice sounded. “I’m afraid Leon is still out there.”

“He better hope he’s not.”

She hated the idea of putting Seth in danger. “Maybe you should stay away after all. He’s strong.”

“I’ll be careful.”

“But—”

“Tabitha, I’m strong too. I’ll be okay.” She heard a door open on the other end of the line. Maybe he was getting his coat? “I’m going to walk over now. Going through fields will get me there quicker than in my truck. We can talk while I head your way.”

“You don’t mind?” Grasping the cell phone like a lifeline, she still felt like she was asking too much of him.

“I don’t mind at all. Now, tell me what you did today.”

“I went to see Mary. And went to the market.”

“Did you now?” There was a faint echo to his words, letting her know that he was outside. He was on his way to her.

“I even saw Martha Brenneman.”

“How did that go?”

“Not too good. She would barely look at me. I pretended I didn’t notice, though.”

“Good for you.” His voice had lifted. She could practically see him smiling. “I’m glad you didn’t let Martha’s bad manners bother you. Martha wasn’t nice even when you were a teacher.” His voice was gentle and encouraging.

---