Chapter 12: The Road Out of Maple Heights

I didn’t dwell on Aubrey’s subtle arrogance and pride. I simply said, "No thanks," and walked out of the house.

Only then did Caleb notice the basket in my hand. His expression changed.

"Lillian, where are you going?"

His tone carried a faint trace of panic as he reached out to stop me.

I remained calm: "I’m going to Mrs. Carter’s to trade some eggs. Since you’re leaving, you should take some food for the road, right?"

Mason pouted.

"Mom, we’ll drive to Boise in a day. We don’t need food."

He seemed to think I was doing something pointless again.

Of course, I knew. But I wasn’t really going to trade eggs.

Instead, Caleb seemed relieved by my answer.

"Then come back early."

"All right."

As if.

I walked toward the edge of town. Behind me were golden fields and distant hills. Morning birds skimmed the pale sky. A cool breeze blew.

They have their destination. I have mine. I hitched my purse higher on my shoulder and set out down the gravel road, the sound of my own footsteps keeping time with my heart. The sun was already rising, warming my back as I walked away from the only home I’d ever known—toward something new, something all my own.

I didn’t look back. If they noticed I was gone, it was already too late.