Arthur had… a gun? What a frightening thought, compelling enough to draw his eyes away from the wall and back to the other man. A shake of his head was Malachi’s only response.

Whether or not Miriam could defend herself – he wasn’t sure. If she had gone against his wishes and sold any of his father’s things, then it was possible that she’d rid the house of any weapons first, thinking them all too garish for her parties and whatever else she did.

Even if she hadn’t, and she had the sense to carry something on her, Malachi was not worried.

“No,” he said once the doctor had concluded his search, “we won’t need it.”

Pushing off from the wall, Malachi moved closer and held out a hand.

“Let me carry it. I don’t want to redo your stitches yet,” and he didn’t have anything of his own to carry either. “Ah- actually, do you have paper and something to write with? Bring that as well, if so.”