Chapter 21

“No. But I don’t think there is anything wrong with being too passionate.”

“So…” Micah prodded him good-naturedly with his elbow, his spirits clearly lifted though how, Jefferson had little idea. “I’ve shared the reasons for my insomnia. I’ve still to hear what it is vexing you.”

Regardless of his earlier promises to himself to not make the same mistakes, Jefferson ached to tell him the truth. You are in my mind and under my skin. You’re there when I close my eyes. I want to show you things poetry can only hint at.

“I have always been afflicted with insomnia. I am not sure why.” The words were barely out of Jefferson’s mouth when the reverend’s large Bible fell from its place on the pulpit. They both jumped as the solid book hit the wooden floor. At Micah’s startled glance, Jefferson said quickly, “It was just the Bible slipping from the stand. That’s all.”

Micah nodded and something kind gleamed in his eyes. “Do you always come here, then?”