"If you wish, I can't promise to be particularly good company. You've given me much to consider."

Edward said the man was too kind to turn her out even if she was what he was currently considering. He wasn't sure how to deal with her feelings, it sounded like she had far more than a crush on him and he didn't doubt her sincerity in that. Logically, he knew that their age gap wasn't that large by the standards of the day though it felt like a gulf he would struggle to overcome. He felt spent, worn out, not suited to the rigours of a relationship or raising a child. Yet, when he had the chance to care for young Jacob he couldn't deny he felt some measure of energy return to him. But that in and of itself wasn't sufficient reason to court the boy's mother.

"You would be sorely missed if you left, so it would be best you not run away."

Even as he said it he caught her looking at him, he didn't hold her gaze instead returning it to his cup. How did he feel about Ruth? He certainly liked the young woman, she was pleasant company, patient and tender when needed, vulnerable and hurt in her own way, but possessed of a strength that was commendable, especially in the face of her ordeals. He had affection for her but that wasn't love, but could it become love? He wasn't sure, perhaps in time if he was open to it which she seemed to think he should be. That he deserved to forgive himself and move on but could he?