“It was the hay,” Mel said. “That day, that awful day, in the moments after the explosion, earthen bricks fell from a destroyed wall, and in my confusion and pain, all I could think about was how they reminded me of the falling of poorly stacked hay.”
“Cry all you want, love,” Addie said. “Tell me what you want to say or be silent. Whatever you need.”
It was then that Mel realized Addie shivered as well. She stepped back, looking into Addie’s eyes.
“I’m all right. Please don’t let it upset you, Darlin’. I’m so sorry I spoiled our day.”
“You didn’t.” Addie pushed loose hair from Mel’s face. She reached into her back pocket and handed Mel the bandana she had stashed there. Mel laughed, then without shame, blew her nose loudly and wiped at her eyes. “Yeah, I’m worried about you, and wish
