Page 49 of The River We Remember

He felt bad about that and didn’t know how to reply. “I was hoping to speak with you and your husband together.”

“My husband isn’t here.”

“When do you expect him back?”

“I don’t know.”

“Do you know where he’s gone?”

“Yes.”

“And that would be?”

She set her tea down and folded her hands in her lap. “To the river.”

“Anyplace special?”

“Inkpaduta Bend.”

“Does he go there often?”

“Yes. In the evening.”

“Why?”

“He says it’s a special place for him.”

“Special in what way?”

“He says it is a spiritual place.”

“How long is he usually gone?”

“It depends. Sometimes he comes back soon, sometimes he’s gone quite a while.”

“During the day, when he’s working for the Quinns, he’s usually gone a long time, yes?”

“Yes.”

“And when he’s gone, you’re here all alone?”

“Yes.”

“Do you mind that?”

“It’s the way it is.”

“Do you ever have visitors?”

She hesitated. “Not often.”

“You worked for the Quinns.”

“To help Marta. You know she’s sick.”

“Of course. What kind of relationship did you have with Mr. Quinn?”

“What do you mean?”