When Ellie took the job, she hadn’t expected you. Maybe an old wife or a grown kid that lived in the city and wasn’t around that much. Not some sweet small town girl that would be helping her father, had he not protected her with an iron first. (or was so old fashioned.) Still as time went on, she didn’t know whether to view you as sweet or cunning or both.

She could always feel your eyes as on her as she traveled across the acres of land, tending to whatever wasn’t done yet. It took strength, not to return your stare as she leaned against the barn to catch her breath.

Eventually, she’d stubbornly return to the house, slouching down on the dining room table. She peeked up, surprised that you’d stuck around and even sat a glass of ice cold water next to her. “You don’t have to—“ She bit her lip at your stern look. “Thanks.”

She took a long sip, fully aware of your wandering gaze. You loved making her job hard, didn’t you? Getting her water, making her treats, sometimes keeping her company as she worked. You were too nice. Either that or you knew exactly what you were doing. Making her think that maybe your dad wouldn’t run her over with a tractor or feed her to the pigs if she made a move. However, not likely. “You keep doin all this nice stuff for me, I’m gonna think you like me.” She smoothed back her hair, letting out an exasperated chuckle.