“It would seem that way. These things take time. She doesn’t spend hours in her room crying anymore,” Hannah replied. “She’s smart to focus on the baby. Sarina’s a good mother.” Hannah settled back against the pillows and folded her hands in her lap. “Now, tell me about Jose’s restaurant. How is it coming?”

“Well, let’s see, it’s been four days since we started painting the room. Looks like, with the kitchen area taken out of the space, we’ll be able to get six tables for two and eight booths for four. That seems adequate for starters, wouldn’t you say?”

“I’ve always believed in starting small. Maybe because it feels safer. There’s less to lose.”

“In all the years I’ve known Jose, I’ve never seen him so excited and happy,” Max said. “He never complained, but with his arthritis, he must have been in pain getting up early in the cold. That’s all over with now.” Max shifted and tried to fit in the rocker better by sitting taller. “The inspectors were out and approved the electrical and plumbing. The kitchen equipment arrives next Monday.”

“I could come to the office and make phone calls.” She stretched her arms over her head. “But you know, Max, I don’t want to go back to work yet, and I don’t feel guilty. Isn’t that marvelous?”

“There’s no reason in the world to feel guilty, my love.” He leaned forward, took her hand, and kissed it. “Give yourself this rest, Hannah. We’re fine. Laura’s a great help; she’s very competent, like you. She handled the inspectors with confidence and authority. You’d have been proud of your daughter. I was.”

“I am proud of her. It took her so many years to find herself. Some people take longer to mature.”

“Are you suggesting that given enough time, Zachary will find himself?” He shook his head. “Frankly, Hannah, I doubt that. I think his lifestyle precludes happiness. There’s a hole in his soul. His hormones landed him in a respectable marriage, but he’s not the kind to settle down and be a family man.” He sighed. “Sarina’s a fine young woman, and I’m glad she’s chosen to stay with us.”

“Sarina wants to stay, or she’d return to her family in India.”

“But what’s to become of her? She’s a young woman alone with a child.” Max shook his head.

“Maybe she won’t be alone forever. Haven’t you noticed, Max, that our Pastor Denny seems quite taken with Sarina?”

“Sarina needs someone to talk to. He’s counseling her.”

“I think with him it’s more than counseling, but then, what do I know?” Hannah shrugged. “I don’t really have a good sense of people.”