Maxwell Family Outting

Cooper looked her over with a small smile, shaking his head just a bit, but clearly pleased.

Well, look at you, all clever and practical, he muttered, grabbing his cap from the hook by the door and settling it firmly over his own graying hair. Suppose we’re both lookin’ presentable for once—who’d have thought it. He chuckled, though there was a gruff fondness in his voice as he gestured for her to head out in front of him.

He walked over to double-check the lock on the back door, as if he needed the extra assurance. After all, the old tavern was a patchwork of memories and sweat, cobbled together like him and Mina’s life. Sealing it up, even just for the day, wasn’t something he took lightly.

Stepping out into the bright morning sun, Cooper squinted a bit, glancing at the cart and horses waiting for them. He was quiet for a moment, watching Mina as she made some final adjustments to the horses’ harnesses with practiced hands. She was more capable than most folks gave her credit for, and for a moment he felt that same pang of pride he’d felt the day she’d taken her first steps behind the bar, a steely determination in her eyes that seemed to say, *I belong here, too.*

Alright then, little lady, he finally said, hoisting himself up onto the driver’s seat with a slight grunt. Let’s get a move on before the whole day slips away from us. And you’d better believe we’re stoppin’ by the smithy—I ain’t about to haul this cart up to Kirkwall just to have it fall apart on me halfway.

@Wilhelmina