Page 16 of Heart of Mystic Valley
“We don’t just want to listen, Joshua. We want to participate.”
“And you will, in time. Look at Grayson. He didn’t just walk in and take a seat. He attended meetings from the time he returned to the ranch, got to know the issues, the people. Now, he’s in a position where he can influence things, such as the proposed tax for the schoolhouse addition.”
Faith’s interest piqued. “A schoolhouse tax?”
“The council is split. Some think the business tax is necessary. Others believe it’ll be too much of a burden. Grayson suggested gathering donations and volunteers to build the addition instead. It’s more work, but it won’t strain anyone’s purse.”
“Sounds reasonable.”
“It is. And the kind of approach that wins people over. Reasonable, gradual. If the women start showing up, expressing your concerns, you’ll begin to sway opinions.”
Faith considered his words. “So, you think we should put our efforts into attending meetings instead of pushing for the vote directly?”
“Starting with the meetings shows you’re serious and you understand the process. It’ll make your eventual issue of voting mean more.”
They walked in silence for a few moments, each lost in thought. A wagon trundled past, its driver tipping his hat to the pair.
“One step at a time, Faith,” Joshua said. “Be patient. You’ll get there.”
They circled back toward her house, the crisp air tinged with the scent of wood smoke from early afternoon hearths.
“Grayson’s approach makes sense,” Faith said. “People are more willing to give when they see where their contributions are going. It creates a sense of ownership, of community.”
“Exactly. The council isn’t against the addition. They need to find a way to do it without hurting the people they’re trying to help. Sometimes, the simplest solution isn’t the best one.”
Faith pondered this. “So, you think the women should oppose the tax?”
“I think you should support solutions that achieve the same goal without creating more problems. If you stand with Grayson on this, it shows you’re thinking beyond your own immediate needs.”
“Alliances,” Faith said, more to herself than to Joshua. She was beginning to see the larger picture, the intricate web of relationships and interests governing the town.
“Attend the next open meeting. Bring as many women as you can and state your preference. Your presence alone will speak volumes.”
Faith stopped walking and turned to Joshua. His tall frame might intimidate some women. She didn’t flinch. Instead, she studied him, wondering if he saw her as more than his outspoken friend, if he recognized the depth of her ambition and the challenges she faced.
Faith offered a confident smile. “We’ll be there.”
They walked in companionable silence back toward her house.
“I’m glad we talked,” she said.
“So am I,” Joshua replied. “You know I want what’s best for the town. And for you.”
“For me?” Faith teased, raising an eyebrow.
“Absolutely.” A small smile played on his lips. “For all the women in Mystic. The families. Everyone.”
They reached her house, where Joshua had tied his horse, Jupiter. The dapple-gray gelding nickered softly at the sight of Joshua.
“We’ve always been friends, haven’t we?” Faith asked, taking a step back from Joshua.
“Since we started school,” he answered.
“Our friendship won’t change, will it? Even if we don’t always see eye to eye?”
He paused, then turned to face her. “Friendship isn’t about agreeing on everything, Faith. It’s about understanding. And standing by each other.”
Relief washed over her. “I’m glad to hear that.”
