His smile didn’t falter, but Malachi did kick himself internally for giving the detective a reason to step even farther away.

Nothing to be done about it. He couldn’t exactly kiss him farewell in the first place.

Clasping his hands behind his back, he moved closer to Nettie in turn. Remained quiet while the women exchanged their goodbyes, their wishes to visit again. Something told him that the detective wouldn’t be pleased about that, even if his assumptions regarding why weren’t all that accurate.

“Ah- yes, I will,” Malachi dipped his head. “I only need some rest.”

How many times had he told that particular lie?

“Peace be with you,” he offered with a glance over them both, already turning to follow after his niece.