PART 9
Jo had stepped out onto the porch again, pulling her shawl tighter to keep out the chill. She scanned the horizon, trying to make out anything she could in the darkness. She worried about Nan and Nick, and felt a general uneasiness now that an armed man was wandering around somewhere. The breeze made her shiver and she never moved more than a few steps from the door.
A distant motion caught her eye. Was it Nick, or was the moonlight playing tricks with her eyes? No, it was not an illusion; the moving figure was becoming more distinct. Someone was hurrying towards Plumfield on foot.
Jo set one hand on the doorknob in case she needed a quick escape into the safety of the house, and kept a wary eye on the approaching stranger.
She was about to go inside and bolt the door when she recognized the runner. It was Nan!
Without hesitation, Jo ran to meet her, Nan flung her arms around Mrs. Bhaer and burst into tears. "Mrs. Jo, I was so scared," she cried.
"Nan," Jo comforted her, "It's all right. We know what happened. You had every right to be afraid."
Nan hugged her tightly and shuddered.
"You poor thing, you're soaking wet," Jo said. "Let's go inside and fetch you some dry clothes and some hot apple cider."
As they entered the house, Tommy yelled, "Nan's back!" Everyone raced to the front door and joyfully gathered around. Nat came running down the stairs.
"I am pleased to announce," said Jo, eyes brimming with tears, "that our prayers have been answered!"
Overcome with exhaustion, Nan said nothing. Nat placed his arm around her and assisted her up the stairs.
PART 10
