Chapter 6: Whispers on the Porch

After I recovered, Nathaniel got even busier. Word was the governor was gravely ill, and everyone in the capital seemed on edge. He left early and came home late, and sometimes I wouldn’t see him for days. His aunt’s health improved, and she was able to get out of bed and walk around. I missed having him near, even if we barely spoke.

The house felt emptier without Nathaniel’s quiet presence. I found myself lingering in the hallway, listening for the sound of his footsteps, hoping for a glimpse of him before he disappeared again. The silence was suffocating.

After giving her her medicine, I helped her stroll on the porch. The sun was warm, and the breeze was gentle. I tried to focus on the simple things.

The air was fresh, tinged with the scent of blooming lilacs. Aunt Martha leaned on my arm, her steps slow but determined. We watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and lavender. I tried to soak in the peace while it lasted.

“Emily, you’re such a good girl, always coming to keep me company.” Her words made me smile, even as I felt a pang of loneliness.

She squeezed my hand, her eyes warm with affection. I smiled, grateful for her kindness. I wondered if she ever guessed how much I needed her company too.

I nodded. “It’s only right for me to take care of you, Aunt Martha.” My voice was soft, but I meant it.

She patted my arm, her grip surprisingly strong for someone so frail. I looked down, surprised by her strength.

She stopped and patted my hand with a smile. “You and Nathan have been married for years. It’s time you had a child.” Her tone was gentle, but the meaning was clear. I swallowed hard.

Her words caught me off guard. I felt my cheeks burn, and I looked away, searching for something—anything—to distract her. I fiddled with the hem of my sleeve.

I was at a loss, my face burning. “Aunt, I…” My voice was barely a whisper, but she didn’t seem to notice.

My voice trailed off, the words sticking in my throat. I could feel the weight of her expectation settling on my shoulders. I wanted to disappear.

“Nathan’s always got his head in the clouds. When it comes to things in the bedroom, you’ll have to take the initiative.” Her words made me want to crawl under a rock. I glanced at the maid, who quickly turned away, her cheeks red.

The maid nearby turned away, embarrassed. I wanted to escape, but Aunt Martha held my hand tight. I tried to pull away, but she wouldn’t let go.

I tried to pull away, but her grip was unyielding. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, my palms slick with sweat. I forced myself to stay still.

Without another word, she pulled a book from her cardigan. “I went through a lot to find this. If you have time, study it. The sooner you give us a grandchild, the sooner I can rest easy.” Her voice was soft but insistent.

She pressed the book into my hands, her expression grave. I stared down at the cover, my mind racing with questions I couldn’t ask. My cheeks burned.

She patted my hand solemnly, then claimed she was tired and sent me off. I nodded, too embarrassed to argue.

I hurried away, clutching the book to my chest. My cheeks burned with embarrassment, but I couldn’t help but laugh a little at Aunt Martha’s determination. I shook my head, still blushing.

I grumbled to myself. In the end, Nathaniel was the one who couldn’t do it—no matter what I tried, it was useless. I flipped through the pages, my curiosity getting the better of me. The illustrations made my face turn scarlet, and I quickly slammed the book shut. I wondered if anyone else in the house knew what was in it.

Leaving Aunt Martha’s room, I curiously flipped open the book. My maid let out a yelp. The pages were filled with things that made my face burn. It felt like holding a hot potato. Flustered, I tossed the book away.

The maid’s eyes went wide, and she covered her mouth to stifle a giggle. I glared at her, but she just shrugged, as if to say, ‘What did you expect?’ I wanted to disappear.