Chapter 42

"No need, sis. I didn't really help much," the young villager waved his hands nervously, not daring to accept Third Brother's wife's offer of a meal.

"I'll head to work now," he added quickly before hurrying away.

"Dad..."

John Stone Sr. looked at the mother and her two children, sighing heavily. "If the Wilsons come to cause trouble, send someone to call me."

Was he offering his support?

Emily Johnson felt a warmth in her chest. Was her father-in-law no longer afraid of gossip?

"Got it. Don’t forget to bring Mom for lunch—we still have meat at home."

The older man nodded, deciding to have his wife visit his daughter-in-law more often these days. A young woman like Emily would be no match for that shrew Margaret Wilson.

"Alright."

With that, John Stone Sr. walked away, hands clasped behind his back.

At the hospital, Michael Stone finally convinced Samuel Bright and the others to discharge him.

"Doctor, we really have to go."

The doctor reluctantly signed the discharge papers. "Remember to change the bandages regularly."

"Third Brother, let’s split up," Samuel arranged. "Charles and I will get our things from the inn. Daniel, you take care of Third Brother. We’ll meet at the train station."

The four quickly divided into two groups.

"Third Brother, let’s get the tickets first," Daniel River said, helping Michael onto the bus. "With your condition, we should get sleeper berths."

Though still pale, Michael was eager to get home.

On the bus, Daniel carefully shielded his injured brother. A taxi would’ve been better, but their pockets were empty.

The train station buzzed with noise.

"Third Brother, I got us seats," Daniel wiped his sweat. "I told the conductor to notify us if sleeper berths become available."

Michael leaned back in his seat, watching the scenery flash past outside.

Home was getting closer.

Soon, he’d see Emily.

Would she still be there?

The thought that she might have already returned to the city made his chest tighten.

"Third Brother, drink some malt extract," Samuel handed him an enamel mug. "Charles went out of his way to get hot water."

Michael frowned. "Save it for the kids."

"Third Brother, you need the nutrients," Samuel said slyly. "If Sister-in-law sees how pale you are, she’ll be heartbroken."

Michael’s breath hitched.

What he feared most... was returning to find her gone.

"Third Brother, we’ll be home by tomorrow morning," Samuel said, reading his thoughts.

They’d been away for nearly a month, leaving right after the autumn harvest.

Back in Stone Village, Emily had just stepped out with the boys when Margaret Wilson stormed to her doorstep.

"You little witch, running away so fast!" Margaret kicked the locked gate. "You ruined my son—I’ll tear your face apart!"

The iron lock gleamed coldly under the sun.