Chapter 11

It was a big old house, built after the Civil War. The grad students who rented rooms shared a communal kitchen and dining room.

“I’m Mrs. Fairbanks. Your room is up on the third floor. If you’ll follow me?” She led the way, speaking over her shoulder. “Washers and driers are in the basement, and you’re responsible for your own laundry. I’ll provide breakfast and dinner. If you want snacks, that’s fine, just see you clean up after yourself.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“We’re very casual here at Mercer House. Well, all my boys are adults. However, I have one hard and fast rule. I don’t care whether it’s male or female—no overnight visitors.”

“I understand, and I’ll keep that in mind.” Although the odds of him dating were minimal. He’d kept his promise to God and avoided thinking of guys that way, although it had been hard. Difficult!

Mrs. Fairbanks was huffing and puffing by the time they reached the third floor.

“Are you all right?”