Milling came and went, followed by the logging in the Forest of Danger. The dream was vivid again—Beautiful chattered and sang, her voice bright. They held hands and kissed, as if the miles between them no longer mattered.
Christmas came, and Seeker traveled to Bright-Harbor to see Beautiful. She spread a blanket across the guest room floor for them both.
Beautiful’s dad said, “I never expected you to come back for her,” and even her mom greeted him with a warm smile.
By spring, the foundation was laid, and the walls were up. After work, Seeker often stopped to check on the progress of their home.
Then came planting, and the roof went on. It was the cutest cottage in Delight—a main room, a kitchen, and a bedroom. No furniture yet; Beautiful should help decorate her own home. Besides, by then he had no money.
Seeker’s heart swelled. Two and a half years—they’d done it. Now only the wedding remained and bringing her home to Delight.
