The Use of a Village - Part 1

"I should go too," Nila said, popping up when she heard the front door closed. "Mother will be excited to hear of you. I wonder if you'll be able to make time for her tomorrow? Stephanie and David too. They talk of you. David says he wants to grow up to be like you."

"I would be glad to," Oliver assured her. "Your mother did a great deal for me. I'm glad to hear that she's well."

"She is. Everyone is," Nila said. "It's only you've we've got to worry about B-, no, Oliver. I already pointed it out before, but you've got yourself into a situation, huh?"

"Well, I guess so," Oliver said, a tiny little grin.

She smiled back. "Of course, I'm only teasing. I know it isn't your fault… I hope you'll give us all a chance. The villagers too. If you're in trouble, we all want the opportunity to help you in some way."