Episode 66

“Melany, are you hearing this? I barely spoke, and now she’s talking back to me.” Melany patted Billie’s hand gently, her smile as soft as fading twilight.

“Every generation has its own way, Billie. Don’t forget, you didn’t have Elijah until years after your marriage.”

“That’s different,” Billie muttered, her voice trailing off.

Melany turned to Elizabeth with an inviting smile. “Elizabeth, are you full?”

“Yes, thank you,” Elizabeth replied, nodding politely.

“Is there something you need?” Melany stood, her tone warm and encouraging.

“I have an ointment for scars that might help. Come to my room, and I’ll show you how to use it.”

“Of course, Melany. I’d be happy to,” Elizabeth replied, rising to assist.

Billie watched them leave, a snort of disapproval escaping her before she turned her attention to Kailee. “Kailee, stay tonight. I want to hear how you’ve been doing,” she said, her tone softening.

Elizabeth glanced at their harmonious interaction before guiding Melany upstairs, her steps slow and deliberate.

In Melany’s cozy bedroom, Melany closed the door and approached a wooden table, lifting a delicate, intricately carved box. Inside were small, ornate bottles, seeming to hold the weight of centuries.

“These were prepared by a traditional medicine doctor in Isonridge,” Melany said reverently. “Modern medicine has its place, but these remind us of our ancestors’ wisdom.” She explained each ointment’s use before carefully returning them.

Elizabeth accepted the box, its weight mirroring the burden in her heart. “Thank you, Melany,” she murmured, her voice soft with gratitude, yet tinged with unease.

Melany’s kindness felt like both balm and thorn. Elizabeth knew it stemmed from her role as Elijah’s wife, a role she was leaving. The thought of accepting such care while harboring secrets filled her with guilt.