Chapter 14

When my shaky emotions are back under control, I look at him again. “You’re a good man.” My voice isn’t the steadiest, but at least it’s not wobbly.

“I try.” It’s not false modesty, I can tell. He actually thinks he can do better—can’t we all?—but as far as I’m concerned, he’s pretty perfect. But he doesn’t seem like a guy who wants to be convinced of his greatness, so I let it go.

“Did she tell you how to make other teas, too?”

“No. But I ended up liking it, so I ordered a book online about it.” He hands me a book he grabs off the side table. I set the cup on the table so I can look through it.

It’s a beautiful book with gorgeous illustrations, and important information about herbs and plants growing in the area, and their uses. Each plant has a folklore section and a section detailing modern scientific knowledge. It’s fascinating. “What other teas have you made?” I ask as I return the book.