Gran is everything August's pa is not. And of course she loves Rob, though she may not like his behavior. It's a grandparents job to love without conditions. As far as her relationship with Dorothea, maybe they are just lifelong friends, or maybe it is more. Either way, the woman has her quirks.
As far as Maureen, she is her mother's daughter, and would put August's happiness above anything else. I have no doubts about that. August is fortunate to have had the mother and grandmother he does.
I loved writing August's relief at Harriet's reaction to Runyan. As he thought, it made him love her more. Sometimes, topics don't come up in families, especially ones that have distance between them. Runyan has a home here... it won't replace the one he left, but it can provide him great comfort if he sticks around. And yes, stronger bonds can be created that surpass a blood family one. In our community, that has proven true for so many. Love that you see Harriet as a spitfire.
Love green tea too, but I stick to caffeine free teas now.
As far as Willy James, it is up in the air, but what isn't is that Runyan will search for him come hell or high water.
Thank you, my lovely friend. Not feeling good yet, but I'll get there.