SPRINGTIME PROMISES *published*

CHAPTER 16: A NEW BEGINNING

The late afternoon sun cast a golden light across the fields surrounding the Walker farmhouse in Camden, Ontario. George Wellington Curl sat on the porch steps, deep in thought. His young son, Ross Kenneth, played inside with his grandfather, James Walker, while George contemplated the decision that had weighed on his mind for months now—whether or not to marry Elma Walker, Edna's older sister.

James, a widower for several years now, was doting on Ross as always. Since the death of his wife and his daughter Edna, Ross had become the apple of his eye. His only grandchild, Ross was the living reminder of Edna, and James took great comfort in watching the boy grow. Even as a laborer who had spent his life working hard, James's energy seemed boundless when it came to his grandson.

George stood, gazing at the fields where James had worked much of his life, appreciating the simple beauty of the place, yet the peaceful scene only heightened the turmoil in his heart. Marrying Elma was a decision fraught with complexities. George had been close to the Walker family for years. His friendship with Edgar, Elma and Edna's only brother, had deepened after Edna's death. Edgar had been George's rock during his darkest moments and their bond had become something like that of brothers, but now, the idea of marrying Elma—a woman who was three years older than him as well as his late wife's sister—felt both right and daunting. The two of them had developed an easy friendship over time, one that had grown stronger since Ellis, their eldest sister, passed away just a year after Edna. With only Elma and Edgar remaining, the sense of family had become even more important, especially for Ross, who looked up to his uncle Edgar.

Inside the house, the sound of Ross's laughter filled the air and George could hear James's deep, hearty chuckle in response. The bond between them was undeniable, and Ross adored spending time with his mother's family. He loved helping James with small chores and hearing stories about his mother's childhood. For George, that bond brought joy, but also guilt—how would his son react if Elma became a permanent figure in their lives?

The front door creaked open and Edgar stepped out onto the porch joining George in his quiet reflection. 

"You've got that look about you," Edgar said with a knowing smile, leaning against the porch railing.

George sighed, shaking his head. "I've been thinking a lot about Elma," he admitted, glancing at Edgar to gauge his reaction.

Edgar's expression softened. "I thought you might be," he said. "You and Elma have been spending a lot of time together lately."

"It's not that simple," George replied, rubbing the back of his neck. "With Ross and with Edna gone...I just don't know if I'm ready."

Edgar was quiet for a moment, his eyes fixed on the horizon. "I know it's not easy. Believe me, after losing Ellis and now living with just my father and Matilda...it's strange, but life has to move on, George. You can't stay in one place forever."

"That's what I'm afraid of," George confessed. "Moving on."

Edgar nodded, understanding. "You're not replacing Edna, and no one expects you to, but you and Ross deserve happiness, and I think Elma could give you that. She's strong, and she cares about you both. That's not something to take lightly."

George knew Edgar was right, but it didn't make the decision any easier. "I just don't want to confuse Ross. He's still so young, and Elma—she deserves someone who's not carrying this much baggage."

"Ross will understand when the time is right," Edgar reassured him. "And as for Elma, I think you underestimate her. She's been through her own losses. She's not looking for someone perfect. She just wants someone to stand beside her, like you've done for her and me."