I couldn't bring them back. Other than ensuring the body collector's legacy carried on, I didn't know what else I could do to make amends.
A long while later, heavy footsteps sounded in the courtyard.
"My lord, you're back. The lady refuses to eat."
"I'll handle it."
I wiped my tears in a rush, but my swollen, red-rimmed eyes gave me away.
Homer crouched in front of me and reached up to brush his thumb beneath my eyes, his voice aching with tenderness. "Crying and refusing to eat. Who's been bullying my Penny?"
"The little one in my belly, of course."
Homer went still for a fraction of a second, then broke into what looked like stunned delight. "Really? I'm going to be a father?"
"Really."
My heart was a cold cellar, but for the sake of my child, I had no choice but to play along.
"Homer, what if... I'm just saying what if... you don't want this baby. I'll raise it on my own. I won't be a burden to you. Would that be all right?"
Something guarded flickered behind his eyes, but he forced a smile. "What are you talking about? How could I not love a child you gave me?"
"Come on, stop overthinking. Let's eat."
I looked at the table laden with dishes and turned my head away.