A FEW MONTHS AFTER KIP’S visit, on a cool fall morning, I sat in a rocker on the front veranda, a fresh cup of brewed coffee nestled in my hands as I listened to the chickadees singing high up in the sweet bay trees. A light wind ruffled the leaves and sent a chill through me, and I pulled my red crocheted shawl closer.

This morning as I’d arrived at the breakfast table, Mammy informed me I would be eating alone; Father had gone on a sudden business trip and would be gone for a few weeks. Perfect, I thought, unable to hide my smile. But I found myself speculating where he was off to now.

“Probably gone off to hog-tie another husband for me,” I said sardonically.

Mammy chuckled. “Now chile, you’re gwine have to marry someday. So I figure you better start lukin’ for a man you could see yourself jumping de broom wid ’fore your father does jus’ dat. Speaking of mens, you received a letter from young Mr. Reed today.”

“Truthfully, Mammy?” When he left, he’d promised to keep in touch, and I was delighted he’d followed through.

Mammy took an envelope out of her apron pocket and laid it on the table beside my plate. Picking it up, I turned it over and traced my fingertips over the Reed family crest.

“Well, are you gwine jus’ sit dere or are you gwine open et?” Mammy asked as she filled my glass with milk.

I laughed at her impatience and opened the letter to read:

 

My Dearest Willow,

I hope this letter finds you well and happy. I know it’s a little late coming, but I wanted to thank you for the enjoyment of your company during my week at Livingston Plantation. I’ve been chained to my desk with an overload of work since I’ve returned, due to new developments. I am thinking of a change in my career, so I’m unsure of where I will end up. Please, know that I think of you often and look forward to the day that we can meet again.

Sincerely, your friend,

Kip

 

A friendship with no strings attached, he’d promised, and he’d stayed true to his word. I reflected on the letter. When would we see each other again? Next time Father went on business to Virginia, I would ask to go along.