I studied one. John appeared very different - robust, strong, dark haired and bright eyed - though the photo wasn't that old. The girl I recognized as the real Josie appeared in her mid-teens.
Okay. I've got no brothers or sisters. His wife appeared in earlier photos of the family but none from when Josie was about ten onward, which I took to mean my pretend-mother was dead. It disappointed me more than it should have to know the real Josie didn't have a mother, either. We had something more in common than looks.
John stirred. I returned to my settee and managed to sit as he opened his eyes once more.
"Forgive me," he apologized. "I grow weaker daily."
"No worries, Father," I murmured. "Nell warned me about taxing you."
"It is a true shame. I find you again only to be leaving you alone."
I like him so much. Genuine and sweet, John cared about me - or rather, who he thought I was - the way I had always hoped my real father would have, had he survived. How awful was it not only to lose my father young but to know real-Josie's father was going to pass away before my eyes, too? He was a good man, and I had a soft spot for good people.
"Your cousin Philip will likely come tomorrow," he continued. "You must be certain to rest. It is rare when you two meet that you do not end up squabbling like the children you once were."
I smiled. "I feel well, Father. Aside from a headache, that is."
"Good. Then I need rest." He rose with effort and stood, appearing paler than when we sat down.
What was wrong with him? In an era where the medicine was barbaric at best, I felt sadder for him. "I hope you're not in pain, Father."
"There is no pain that can compete with the joy of seeing you here, my dear." His features glowed with happiness. "You looked a little peaked."
Because I can't breathe in this thing! I offered a small smile, affected by his concern, especially when his own life was so short. Something about him touched me, as if we were meant to meet or were somehow connected. I couldn't shake the sense that he was familiar, along with Carter, even though it was impossible.
"Thank you, Father," I said. "I think I need fresh air."
"Nell will accompany you wherever you go." There was firmness in his tone. "I will not lose you again, and later today, we will take supper together, like we did every night before you left."