HAPPILY EVER AFTERS GUARANTEED A short story collection By Lacy Williams

Copyright 2012 Lacy Williams This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If youre reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to the site where you bought it and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Other books by Lacy Williams MARRYING MISS MARSHAL THE HOMESTEADER'S SWEETHEART HEART OF GOLD

A note from the author: I hope you enjoy this collection of short stories. Im giving it away as a sort-of birthday gift and I want to give my readers more gifts, too! If you purchase a copy of my book THE HOMESTEADERS SWEETHEART during the month of May 2012, you can receive free bonus gifts from myself and other authors. Visit www.megamaybirthdaybash.com for full details. Thanks for reading! -Lacy Williams

Title page Copyright page A Birthday To Remember Harvest Moon Green Peas Sneeze Kate's Valentine Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four Part Five Part Six Part Seven Part Eight Part Nine Part Ten The Bluestocking and The Blueblood Sneak peak - Marrying Miss Marshal Sneak Peak - The Homesteader's Sweetheart

A BIRTHDAY TO REMEMBER By LACY WILLIAMS

TUESDAY Still no package. Anna Larsen batted away her disappointment as she flipped through the stack of bills and junk mail. She dodged a soccer ball rolling down the hallway and detoured to the trashit definitely needed to be emptiedand added the bills to the stack to pay later tonight, when things around here settled down a little. Mom! Ginas tattling! The two voices overlapped as the sound of feet thundered toward the kitchen, followed by plaintive barking. She wasnt ashamed to admit her birthday wishmade during yesterdays brunch with her two best friends, also young motherswas for a few hours of peace and quiet. Plus a dozen roses, an hour massage, and the new romance novel shed been waiting to buy. Shed settle for one of her wishes. Her sister Misty had promised to babysit for a couple hours tomorrow, Annas actual birthday. And Anna was hoping her parents had mailed her the novel since they were away on a cruise. It was times like these she missed Ted the most. Hed loved cooking up surprises and doing big things for birthdays. It just wasnt the same when you had to throw the surprise party for yourself. And, although hed left behind a nice insurance settlement so she didnt have to pinch pennies exactly she tried to be frugal with the money so she might be able to help the kids pay for college. Not that she needed to worry about that now. Gina, Mikey, she stalled their wild flight into the kitchen with both hands raised. And the loud buzzing powertool from the house being remodeled next door kicked on, igniting Annas headache. Couldnt the carpenter take a break for one day? Whats going on? she asked her kids. Both six-year-old Mikey and four-year-old Gina sucked in breaths, but before they could start talking over each other, Anna said, Gina first. Mikey painted on the wall Her daughter, dressed in a long, lavender tutu, a t-shirt and sneakers, started speaking. Its a present for you, Mom! Supposed to be a surprise! Her sons exclamation was punctuated by a bark from Molly, their six-month-old Border Collie puppy who had a suspicious orange streak across her back. Anna was only surprised that thiswhatever hed paintedwas the first creative surprise her son had given her this week. Last Saturday it had been mud pies baked in her oven. Youd better show me this surprise, Anna said. Happy birthday, Mom. The R and H in birthday were both backwards. The words glared at Anna from the upstairs hallway, dripping down the once-white wall several feet below the family photos that lined the hallway. Oh, Mikey Just then, the doorbell rang. Ill get it! chirped Gina, darting back downstairs before Anna could grab her t-shirt to stop her. No, Gina! Let mommy see who it is first! Anna followed her daughter, but tripped on a doll on the bottom stair and landed hard on her rump in the entry hall, just as Gina pulled the door open to reveal a tall, broad-shouldered man wearing faded jeans and a tool belt. The man Anna least wanted to see. And, apparently, the carpenter from next door. Kelly Cartwright. You all right? he asked, flicking his sky blue eyes in Annas direction, though he didnt step over the threshold. She nodded, wincing with both chagrin and what was sure to be a bruised tailbone in the morning. She pushed herself off the floor and moved to stand behind Gina, putting a hand on her daughters shoulder.

Those blue eyes didnt miss the protective gesture, and his hands fisted at his sides. Hello, he said to Gina. Im Gina Marie Larsen. Im four and I will be five in three more months. Who are you? He smiled and it turned his face from plain old gorgeous to Tom Cruises younger brother handsome. Annas heart thumped once loudly, same way it had every time hed smiled at her back in college. My name is Kelly and Im thirty years old and two months. Im six and a half. Anna glanced over her shoulder to see Mikey peeking around the edge of the stairway, Molly at his feet. My son, Mikey, Anna offered. Hi, Mikey. And thats Molly! Gina chimed in, her tendency toward wanting the spotlight asserting itself. And Mommys birthday is tomorrow. Shes going to be Gina. Anna clapped her other hand onto the girls other shoulder, halting her words. Too late. 29. I remember. Kellys gaze intensified as it shifted from daughter to mother. Annas heart thumped again, painfully this time. She didnt want the bad boy from her college days to remember her birthday. She wanted Ted back. Comfortable, good old Ted. Is there something I can do for you? Anna wanted Kelly gone from her front porch before things dissolved any more and Gina invited him in. I actually, um He looked sheepish, an expression shed never seen on him before. Hed always been confidentTed had called him arrogant. I was coming out of the driveway to head to the hardware store and I backed into your mailbox. He pointed over his shoulder and Anna followed his finger with her gaze. Her mailbox lay on its side and an ugly hold gaped in her yard next to the curb. So this wouldnt be an easy fix. Mikey, can you take Gina upstairs and play, please? Annas kids shuffled up the stairs and she thought to call after them, No more painting! Kellys eyebrows rose as she joined him on the porch but she didnt explain. She pulled the door almost all the way closed, so she could still hear the kids if they needed her. Im really sorry, Kelly said, and he looked it. But shed been the recipient of one too many of his apologies before and wasnt sure she could believe it. Its not the first time its happened, she admitted, crossing her arms over her middle. I think the original builders shaped the cul-de-sac wrong. Since I was heading to the hardware store anyway, Ill just get a bag of cement and a new post. If I get it set tonight, I can reattach the box first thing in the morning. Its okay. My mom and dad are out of town, but dad can do it when he gets back. She didnt really want Kelly hanging around, even to fix something hed broken. I dont think the postman will deliver your mail without a box. His voice didnt betray any tension, but Anna knew him well enough to see his tellsstiff shoulders and still-clenched fists. It was my fault for rushing. Shouldve been paying attention. Id like to fix it for you. Shed prefer he didnt, but then she remembered her awaited birthday packaged and shrugged. Fine. The kids go to bed at 8:30 though, so I dont want you to make a lot of noise after that. Sure. His easy smile returned. Im actually kind of glad this happened. He was? Anna frowned, stomach clenching as she imagined what he might say. Ive seen you at church a few times since I moved back home a few months ago, but I always seem to miss you. She knew. Shed rushed the kids out of the sanctuary a couple of times to avoid him. I heard about your husband and I wanted to say Im sorry for your loss. Ted was a good guy. He squinted and looked out into the yard, as if the words werent easy for him to say. I I should really go in and check on the kids, she interrupted, afraid of what he would say next. She reached for the door but his hand closed over her wrist, surrounding her skin with heat. She yanked away and he held up both hands in front of himself.

Please. He cleared his throat. Im probably only going to get the courage up to do this once. Heart pounding loudly in her ears, Anna desperately wanted to turn and rush back into the house, but the thread of desperation in his voice held her captive. I need to apologizeyou might not even remember thisthe night of your wedding reception She knew exactly what he referred to. How could she forget, even seven years later? It had been the worst twenty minutes of the best day of her life and had caused the first fight between her and Ted as a married couple. She could still hear Kelly over the mic hed snagged from the best man. You married the wrong guy, Anna. And Teds later comment, I cant believe youve been friends with that lowlife since freshman year. She hadnt stayed friends with Kelly after that. You really dont have to she started. Actually, I do have to. Apologizing and making amends is part of the recovery program I follow. His eyes met hers, a serious, deep blue this time. I didnt know youd joined a program. Five years now, he said, rocking back on his heels, still considering her. She didnt know what he wanted from her. Thats great. Im glad for you, Kelly. But just because he was sober didnt mean she wanted to hang out with him. She had two kids to take care of and a lot of other things going on in her life. He finally looked away after a long beat of silence, his gaze going out into the yard again. Its okay if you cant forgive me for ruining your wedding reception. I know its a lot to ask. Annas thoughts went to the night two years before thatbefore shed even started dating Ted. If she probed, would Kelly apologize for that night, too? Did she want to say anything? Afraid if she brought up their disastrous firstand onlydate, Kelly would read something into it, she chickened out. Its really okay. Water under the bridge and all that. An apology is way better than what I thought you were going to say, anyway. His questioning expression made her think better of her statementshe knew hed badger her until she told him what shed thought, so she rushed forward without thinking. I thought you were going to ask me out. A flash of hurt crossed his features before he quickly schooled his face into a blank mask. She hadnt meant to hurt him, but she just couldnt go there, not with everything that had passed between them. Not with two kids to look out for. Id better get on to the hardware store, he said with a wan smile. Thanks for listening. His shoulders were tense again as he took the steps off the porch. He didnt look back. Bye, Anna whispered.

TUESDAY EVENING The kids finally in bed, Anna watched Kelly from behind the kitchen curtains as he mixed and poured the concrete and put the new mailbox post in place. He was far enough from the house that he wasnt making much noise. She felt kind of bad, because hed been workingshed heard the power tools going againall afternoon since hed returned from the hardware store, and he hadnt taken a dinner break or anything before hed started working on her mailbox. Part of her thought she should go out and offer him a glass of water or a sandwich or something, but she wasnt sure she could face having a conversation with him again. Theyd met in Freshman English at university and hit if offbeen nearly inseparable that first semester. When hed asked her out to a bonfire with a group of friends, shed been elated. Shed had such a crush on him. Shed been so nave. Hed picked her up, and as usual, theyd talked and joked the whole way out to the local campground, barely pausing for breath. Having fun. But one of his buddies had brought a cooler of drinks and as the evening progressed, Kelly had visited it more and more. By the time shed insisted on driving home, hed been too drunk to protest, though it hadnt stopped him from stealing a slobbery, awkward kiss. The next afternoon hed apologized for going overboard and asked her if they could try again. Shed been polite but refused on the grounds that she thought they were better off as friends. Theyd had several classes together before graduation but never regained their former closeness. After Anna started dating Ted at the end of her sophomore year, she and Kelly had drifted even further apart. And after hed made a fool of himself at her wedding reception she hadnt spoken to him again. Until earlier today. She was glad to know he was in a recovery program and had been sober for years. But she just didnt think she could risk having a friendship with him again.

WEDNESDAY Kelly and the U.S. Post Office said shed have no mail today because her mailbox wasnt fixed. That meant no package. Not even a birthday card. Anna tried to squelch her disappointment and hold onto her temper as she followed the kids screaming voices into the living room. Her two usually-good kids had turned into recalcitrant monsters and seemed determined to ruin her birthday today. A fight over the last of the cereal had made breakfast into a free-for-all, and theyd both been cranky and petulant since. Was it really only ten a.m.? She couldnt wait for Misty to get here. What is going on in here? she asked, after raising both hands to silence the kids. Mikey wont let me watch the princess show, Gina whined, big crocodile tears that Anna was sure were fake shining on her cheeks. Its my turn to pick, Mikey insisted, holding the remote control out of his sisters reach. How about you both go into the kitchen and feed Molly her breakfast? Make sure she has water, too. Aw, mom They both mumbled and drug their feet but finally went. Anna started to follow them but the phone rang. She answered quickly before Gina tried to come get it. Anna, Im sooo sorry, Mistys voice rang out over the line. Mrs. P called me in to work. I couldnt get out of it and Im not going to be able to babysit. I know I promised but shes my boss and I couldnt say no. Her sister wasnt coming for the kids. So much for carving a few relaxing hours out of the day for her birthday. Could anything go right today? Mikey called for her from the kitchen and Anna slipped into the hall coat closet, wiping away a stray tear. She just needed a moment without chaos to get ahold of herself. Pressed against the winter coats, standing on top of the vacuum cleaner, she hiccoughed and tried to calm down even as she heard a shouted Mom! from somewhere in the house. Couldnt she even have a few hoursminutesof peace on her birthday? Mom! Mommy! Her kids shouts echoed more urgently, but she couldnt get ahold of herself Mom! Finally she stepped out of the closet, hoping she could keep a lid on her tears. Whats the matter? Mikey skidded to a stop in the entryway, face panicked. Mollys gone! We went in the backyard to get her and the gate was open. She ran away from home! Gina ran forward and threw herself at Annas legs, wrapping her little arms around Annas knees. Just what Anna needed. Something else to go wrong today! She prayed that the dog hadnt gotten far as she disengaged Gina from her legs and headed for the front door. She was opening her mouth to yell for Molly as she hit the front porch when a familiar figure came up the walk and halted her words. Kelly, carrying a panting, squirming Molly in his arms. Looking for something? He ruffled the dogs ears and chuckled as she licked underneath his chin, wiggling with joy. He took one look at Annas face and his smile faded. Whats wrong? Molly! Mikeys voice rand out and his footsteps slapped against the porch steps behind her. Anna didnt want to break down in front of her kids, she really didntand she especially didnt want Kelly to see her cry. But her relief that Molly was safe sent her teetering emotions reeling and hot tears filled her eyes. She turned to the side and raised one hand to shield her eyes as Mikey rushed past her. You found Molly! Actually, she found me. I left the front door open and she came wandering in and right to me. Anna sensed Kelly kneeling down to Mikeys level, but tears still blinded her as she tried to get ahold of herself. She seems hungry, Kellys baritone rumbled.

Yeah, Gina and I were supposed to feed her and thats when I saw the gate was open. We musta forgot to close it last night after we put our bikes up. Anna was surprised by Mikeys chatter. He was usually more reserved with people he didnt know well. Well, next time youll know to check the gate, wont you? Do you think you should go feed Molly now? Yeah! Cmon Molly. You too, Gina. Anna heard them scamper off into the house. Theyd be distracted by feeding Molly for at least a few minutes. Now if she could just escape Kelly without making a total fool of herself She heard his clothes rustle as he stood from his crouched position. Is there anything I can help with? She shook her head, sniffled. No. Im fine. It might have sounded more believable if her voice hadnt shaken with emotion. Anna. He said her name and her heart gave another one of those funny lurches. I just She couldnt tell him everything that was wrongno birthday gift from her parents, no sister to babysit, no Ted to make a big deal out of her day It would sound like whining. Could you just watch the kids for a few minutes? I might take a short walk. His hand closed over her elbow briefly. Take as long as you need. She meant to only go partway down the block and come back, just a few moments to calm herself, but by the time she felt composed, it had been more like a half hour and shed walked all the way around the block to the neighborhood park. The house was quiet when she came in. Not a good sign. And what was that smell? Gina? Mikey? she called out. Kelly? A soft woof from somewhere in the house reassured her. Hello? she tried again. Noisy feet scrambled around somewhere above her head. Were upstairs, Kellys voice answered. Curiosity piqued, Anna climbed the stairs. She stopped close to the top, when she came face-to-face with two grinning kids and a carpenter with a movie star smile. Surprise! Gina and Mikey shouted, jumping up and down and rattling the plastic they stood on? Thats when she noticed the walls. Bare of pictures. Brightly white. With no birthday wishes scrawled on them. No orange paint. What happened? she asked faintly. Gina came forward and pushed a folded piece of construction paper into Annas hands. Happy birthday, Mommy! Anna unfolded the handmade card to see Happy birthday, Anna written inside in a heavy, masculine scrawl. Beneath the words, both Mikey and Gina had printed their names. Beneath that was a kids drawing of a house with several stick figures and a stick puppy. One of the figures held balloons. We fixed the wall, Mikey said proudly, bringing her attention back up to the pristine white hallway. Mr. Kelly let me help put together the paint roller and lay out the plastic. And I made the card! Gina chirped. But she looked closely at the wall and couldnt even see the orange paint through the new white layer. I wasnt gone that long. Kelly stepped forward, his blue eyes serious behind his smile. Its a fast-drying paint plus primer. I had an extra half-gallon left over from the neighbors place He jerked his thumb toward the house next door as if she didnt know where all the noise had been coming from for the last few weeks. All your pictures are laid out on the floor in your bedroom. I marked the spots where they all went Kelly pointed to several small, dark marks on the wall, showing where the family pictures needed to be re-hung. Hed thought of everything. Anna couldnt speak past the lump that had returned to her throatthis time from gratitude. Shed pretty much blown Kelly off yesterday when hed tried to apologize and today hed done this wonderful thing for her.

I hope its okay I didnt overstep, did I? Kellys real concern was echoed by Mikeys soft, Mom, dont you like it? and pleading brown eyes. Its wonderful, she said, pulling Gina and Mikey into a brief hug. Thank you. Gina looked up, chin still pressed into Annas stomach. Can I have a snack? Im hungry Me too! No wonder, since both children hadnt eaten a good breakfast after fighting at the table. Sure, thing. They ran down the stairs, sounding like a herd of elephants. Whooping, hollering elephants. Your pup is in the laundry room. Thought it might get us in more trouble if she got paint footprints all over the house, Kelly said as he joined Anna on the staircase. Good thinking. She wished she wasnt so aware of him as their shoulders brushed on the way down. She slowed so that he moved in front of her as he stepped of the last stair and into the entryway. Thank you, she said. For more than just painting the hallway. His eyes were still serious even though he smiled when he turned back to her. Ive learned its okay to need help sometimes. Im glad I could be here. Embarrassment heated her cheeks. Im not usually I dont do that. Break down. Kelly shrugged. Its understandable. Having a birthday has to be one of those occasions that you really miss someone youve lost. He glanced at the large, framed picture of Anna and Ted with the kids, laughing in the park. It had been taken a few months before the accidentGina was just two months old in the pictureand hung prominently in the foyer. Was it Annas imagination, or did Kellys jaw tighten as he considered the family portrait? Your kids are really something. Ted wouldve been proud. She swallowed the lump that remained in her throat and whispered, Thanks. They usually are. Today theyve been a little challenging. He chuckled. Id better get back to work.

WEDNESDAY EVENING Anna had just sat the kids down with mac and cheese and hot dogs when the doorbell sounded. Gina started rise, but Anna motioned her back into her seat. Ill get it. Misty grinned and waved through the front window. What are you doing here? Anna asked as she pulled open the door. I thought you had a date tonight? Your birthday only comes once a year. I felt bad about having to back out of watching the kids this morning, so I cancelled. You can still sneak out of the house for a couple hours. Oh, and I forgot! Mom asked me to give you this. Misty put a small package in Annas hands. Ripping open the paper revealed the novel Anna had been expecting, plus a special surprise tucked in the front jacketa gift card for a one hour massage at a place shed wanted to try out for awhile. Her parentsprobably her momhad known just what she needed for her birthday. Get out of here. The kids and I will be fine. A glance out the window showed Kelly hauling something from his truck to the neighbors house. Anna remembered the poignant, longing look on his face as hed glanced at the family portrait earlier. She suddenly knew what she wanted to do with her now-free evening. After running upstairs to put on some lip gloss and grab her purse, she stepped outside. She was halfway across the neighbors lawn when Kelly emerged from the house carrying a load of used lumber. Something wrong? he called out when he saw her. Dog out again? He carried to the wood to the curb and deposited it on the ground with a loud clatter. No, she replied, suddenly nervous. Her tongue cleaved to the top of her mouth and she had to clear her throat before more words would emerge. Do you want tomy sister came over to babysit. Anna motioned over her shoulder to Mistys car in the drive. I thought I would go have a bite out to celebrate. You know, birthday dinner and all. Do you want towould you like to go with me? His look of surprise was quickly followed by a tentative smile. Im not really dressed He glanced down at his jeans and sweat-dampened t-shirt. I could run over to my apartment and change. Its not far. I wasnt planning to spring for The Steakhouse or anything, Anna replied with an ornery smile. Ive still got two kids to feed, you know. I was thinking more along the lines of Mels Place. The caf was much more casual than the fancy steak restaurant shed named, but they served the best milkshakes in town. And Mels would make this seem less like a date. It wasnt a date. Just dinner between two people who used to be friends. Thats right. Youve probably forgotten what its like to eat at a four star restaurant with those two little tykes around. At least Mels doesnt have a climbing gym inside, she joked. He laughed, a deep, hearty sound that vibrated all the way to her bones. Their gazes clashed and for a moment it was like being back in college again, before everything had changed between them. Kelly broke the connection first, turning toward his truck. Ive at least got a clean shirt in the truck. Ill just run inside and put it on. Anna nodded, face heating. Youre not in college anymore, she reminded herself sternly. But it was hard not to be attracted to a man as handsome as Kelly was. He returned after locking up the house, dry shirt safely covering those muscled shoulders. He acted as if nothing had passed between them, boosting her into the truck and talking animatedly about the remodeling project he was working on for her neighbors. She gave him a hard time about his noisy power tools. He ribbed her about almost losing Molly. It was like old times. But she was completely aware that Kelly was a different person. His confidence seemed deeper quieter, somehow. He didnt radiate the kind of nervous energy he had in the past there was no constant tapping of his fingers on the wheel or jiggling of his knee. Behind his jovial demeanor, he seemed more settled.

He asked a lot of questions about Ted and the kids while she sipped her milkshake and they waited on their food. Over the meal, she asked about his parents. They split up when I was in high school, he told her, stealing an onion ring from her plate. She snitched a French fry from his. I didnt know that. Why didnt I know that? Kelly looked away briefly but then visibly forced himself to meet her gaze. I never talked about it in college. Not to anyone. Its taken me a lot of time to work through my issues with my parents. For a long time, I felt responsible. I guess a lot of kids feel that way. And then, too, when I was growing up, everyone always told me I was just like my father. After he left, my mom was so closed off I thought, if she didnt love him anymore, how could she love me? Oh, Kelly She couldnt help herself. She reached across the table and touched his hand. It also didnt help that I was a selfish jerk, too worried about what people thoughtwhat you thought about meto be straight with you about my personal life. Well, youre certainly more open now. He grimaced self-consciously. Yeah, well, Ive learned you can hide all you want, but the ugliness lives inside you. But when she looked at him, she didnt see anything ugly. God had changed Kelly through the recovery program. Im really proud of you. Thanks. Other than from my mentor, I dont get a chance to hear that very often. Their serious conversation was interrupted when a crew of waiters arrived with a candle-lit cake to sing a birthday song for Anna. She rolled her eyes and mock-glared at Kelly, but was secretly pleased by the attention. Hed managed to make her feel special today. From painting her hallway and interacting with the kids this afternoon, to his open, engaging dinner conversation shed completely changed her mind about having Kelly back in her life. It was that decision that led to her ask, Could we do this again sometime? when they were almost back to her house. The intimacy of the darkened cab of his truck began to feel oppressive as he didnt answer, and didnt answer He pulled into her drive and Anna was ready to jump from the truck, her face flaming with embarrassment. Obviously, he didnt feel the same way she did, the same connection. I dont know if thats such a good idea, Anna. His soft words held her captive, though she kept one hand on the door, ready to escape. His hands flexed on the steering wheel. Im He took a deep breath, his exhale loud in the silence between them. This is really hard. After tonight Im falling in love with you again. If we see each other, Im afraid it might get worse. She gulped and gathered her courage enough to warble, Again? He still didnt look at her. I thought you mightve guessed back in college. I pretty much fell for you that first day in Freshman Comp. I was so nervous that night we went out I couldnt tell. Really? Not even when I kept going back for more and more beer? I thought having a couple would take the edge off, and then I saw you getting uncomfortable and I knew I was ruining everything but I still couldnt stop She couldnt seem to take her eyes off him, but he still hadnt looked her way. When you wouldnt go out with me again, I knew why, but I kept telling myself that I could clean up and have another chance. Then you started dating Ted and I saw you slipping away Inside, I knew it was my own fault for the doing the things I was doing, but I blamed anything and everyone else. I just kept thinking I could change, but then you were married Her face was still hot, but now for a different reason. Shed had no idea hed cared so much. I messed up back then, he said, starting at his hands gripping the wheel. I was so jealous of Ted Im still jealous. I know he was a good guy, know you mustve loved him a lot, and I cant live up to that.

I know you have the kids to watch out for and I just if we see each other again, if we start a relationship, Im afraid of messing up again. And the last thing Id want to do is hurt you. Now he turned to face her, eyes vulnerable. He was leaving it all out on the tableand all up to her. If she decided she didnt want to see him again, she knew he would keep his distance. In the dim light from the dash, she watched the tiny lines around his eyes tighten as she gave serious consideration to his declarationafter all, she had to think about Mikey and Gina. But she also had to think about herself. She couldnt ignore the sparks that had reignited between Kelly and herself tonight. She felt valued, her heart felt alive for the first time since Teds death Her heart reached out for his and she reached out and linked their fingers together. Technically, you still owe me a kiss, to make up for the one you botched before. She saw the teasing words register, saw that he knew exactly what she was talking about. And the hope blooming in his eyes matched her own. She wasnt afraid of living any more. But I dont kiss on the first date, she warned with a grin. So I guess youll have to take me out again. He reached for her and when she went into his arms, tucked her head beneath his chin. They clung to each other, and she realized he was shaking. Are youare you sure? he asked gruffly. Yes. And she was. THE END

HARVEST MOON By LACY WILLIAMS

PART ONE Jesse Parker held tightly to his son Joshs hand as they navigated the crowded country drive. He tried not to step on any goblins, fairies, superheroes or sports stars and was glad his son had chosen a Halloween costume without a mask, just in case they got separated in the crush of families. Someone bumped Jesses shoulder and he juggled the Jack-o-lantern cradled in his other arm. Dont drop it, daddy! Josh chided, as serious as a five-year-old could be. I want to win the contest! I wont, buddy. And remember what I said the other night. You might win the carving contest or you might not. I know. Joshs exuberant grin lightened Jesses heart, but nothing could budge the rock settled deep on his lungs. It was guilt, plain and simple. For something hed done a year ago, words spoken in the heat of anger. Words he now wished he could take back. There she is! Josh exclaimed, pointing across the crowd. Theres Miss Olive. I see her. And he did. Once Jesse spotted the blonde head bent over a makeshift table, all his senses narrowed to a pinpoint, focused on Olive Thomason. Same way they had ever since high school. Hed thought the six years shed been away from the small farming town of Peaceful, Oklahoma, would be enough to curtail his silly reactions to her, but her arrival last year after her grandmas stroke had quickly disabused him of that notion. He hadnt thought shed stick around. And therein lay the rub. She had. Miss Olive! Josh burst through the last of the costumed munchkins and ran up to Olive, Jesse following. Shaking her short hair out of her eyes, the petite blonde looked up and beamed at his son. Jesses heart pounded and she hadnt even looked at him yet. Hiya, Josh. Jesse straightened his shoulders when her blue-eyed gaze skipped up to him. And Jesse. He cleared his throat. Touched Joshs shoulder. The boy quivered with excitement under his superhero cape. Olive. How are you? I guess you know my son from his kindergarten class. And it was Jesses sincere prayer that she wouldnt hold blame for his behavior against his son. Miss Olive, daddy and me carved a punkin for the contest. I drew the design and daddy cut it for me cuz Im too little to use the knives. Thats okay, right? She glanced at the pumpkin in Jesses hand, a half-smile crinkling her strawberry lips. Hmm, yes its fine, Josh. Thats nice that your daddy helped you. Lets fill out this entry form Youre just in time, too, because the judging is going to start in about ten minutes. Jesse set the pumpkin on the table among about fifteen others with different degrees of art carved into them, ranging from simple triangles for eyes to really intricate art designs. His attention half on filling out the quarter sheet of paper that Olive slid across the table to him, Jesses heightened awareness tracked Olive to where she now stood with one hand on Joshs shoulder. Did your daddy make you dig out all the pumpkin seeds? Olive asked Josh, tone serious. Yes, and it was really goopy and gross! Josh let out a sudden giggle and Jesse glanced up to see a large black and white Border Collie had approached and was licking his sons face. Oooh, Darby blech! Jesse knew his son didnt really mind the doggie kisses, not after hed heard story after story about the mutt. Daddy, this is Darby. Shes the dog that visits my class with Miss Olive. Jesse crouched to greet the dog and noticed it had on a bandana complete with skeletons and scarecrows. How festive. It extended its paw in a polite shake and Jesse couldnt help but chuckle.

Miss Olive says Darby is the smartest dog ever because shes been to school for five years in a row. Thats a lot in doggie years. Miss Olive says I should finish my school too so I can be smart just like Darby. Miss Olive says was a common refrain in the Parker household. Josh had been enamored with the lovely volunteer and her shaggy companion since theyd begun visiting his kindergarten class weekly at the beginning of the semester. Jesse knew his son desperately needed a mothers touch. Was the boy imagining Olive in that role? Oh, Daddy, I see Cassie from Sunday school! Can I go say hi? Jesse couldnt say no. He stood up, hands in his pockets, supremely conscious that hed been left alone with Olive. He watched his son run up to a little girl in a princess costume, saw the girls mother wave at him that shed watch Josh for a few minutes. He nodded his acquiescence. What should he say to Olive? He didnt know how to approach the subject of how wrong hed been a year ago. Hes been excited since breakfast, hasnt he? Yep. Didnt want to go to bed last night, either. Jesse glanced at the woman that still made his heart sound like it needed a tuneup just by standing there. She had a yellow sun, complete with smiley face, painted on one cheek. Festive, just like her dog. Olive shuffled a pile of papers in front of her, face downcast. Did she want him to go away? He really should apologize So you volunteer once a week at the school? he asked. She looked up, almost seemed surprised that he was still standing there. He probably deserved that after the awful way hed treated her last year. Twice, actually. The kids really love it and Darby does too. Her hand crept down to rest on the dogs head. Im surprised you have time, what with running your grandmas farm and doing Jesse swept his arm in an arc to encompass all the activity going on around them. all this. She started loading the pumpkins into a wheelbarrow he hadnt noticed behind the table. I make time for whats important. He wasnt sure if her words hid a double meaning, but he let them go for now. Jesse lifted a large pumpkin from the front of the table and rounded the corner to put it in the wheelbarrow for her. She nudged a cardboard box in his direction and he assumed that meant to fill it up. He did. Josh is a sweet kid. Jesse looked around mock-frantically, then heaved a sigh. Dont let him hear you say that. No, seriously, he can be a terror sometimes but he has his sweet moments. He gave her a wry smile. Kinda surprising, since hes my kid, huh? Her eyes met his for the first time instead of flashing away. No. You have your moments, too.

PART TWO Olive kept her eyes averted, but she couldnt turn off her awareness of the way Jesses muscles bulged as he maneuvered the wheelbarrow piled high with jack-o-lanterns over the bumpy farm lane to the display shed set up on her Grans porch. She couldnt believe shed blurted out that she thought he was sweet. Shed been prepared for him to turn tail and walk off had expected it after the last conversation theyd had one year ago but hed flushed under his tan, averted his expressive brown eyes, and insisted on helping her tote the jack-olanterns over to be judged. She was just as much of an goober over him now as she had been at eighteen. Why couldnt she get over this inappropriate crush? Darby followed at their heels, although the registered therapy dog kept sneaking glances at the yummy foods right at her level some held precariously by uncaring children. Olive snapped her fingers to keep the dogs attention where it should be. Jesse rolled the wheelbarrow right up to Grans front steps and released the handles. The rancher wasnt even sweating. Thanks, she said, putting down the smaller box she carried and wiping her dusty hands on her jeans. Anything else I can do? Was him rubbing one hand down the back of his neck a sign of nervousness? What did he have to be nervous about? Um, Angies going to set these out and do the judging. Here she comes now. She waved to her neighbor who was heading their way. Jesse looked like he wanted to say something else, but at that moment Josh ran up to his father. Daddy, daddy! Theyre doing hayrides! I want to go, I want to go! Cassies going, and Tommy Jesse laughed, interrupting his sons chatter. He swung Josh up in his arms and then there was a mad scramble as the boy settled in for a piggyback ride. All right. He looked right over at Olive, his gaze intense. Oh, Miss Olive! Can you come too? She signaled Darby to stay in step with her. Ill walk with you. Im supposed to drive the truck, though, so I wont be able to sit in the back. They talked of mundane things with Josh present, Shed settled in the cab of the well-used pickup borrowed from another neighbor relieved to be out of Jesses intoxicating and confusing presence. The passenger door creaked open and the object of her thoughts slid in, shoving Darby into the middle seat. Its way too crowded back there. Mind if I navigate? She blinked. I guess not. Will Josh be okay without you? Oh, hes fine. Olive twisted to see through the back window. Josh was surrounded by friends and two responsiblelooking adults sat nearby. She shrugged and started up the truck. In addition to being well-used i.e. old it was a diesel and plenty loud. Maybe she wouldnt have to talk to Jesse during the ride. Theyd made it past her mailbox and onto the dirt-packed country lane when Jesse spoke. Shouted, really. Im sorry about what I said to you about you not having what it takes to stick it out in Peaceful. She glanced at him, trying to gauge his sincerity. Shed gotten real good at that had to over the years. Jesse kept his face mostly averted, eye out the passenger window. His neck and cheekbones were endearingly pink-tinged. Im glad thingsve worked out for you and your grandma, he continued, still speaking loud over the trucks roar and the rattle that came from driving on a rutted dirt road. Worked out? she cried. Worked out? I mean He quickly tried to backpedal. Youve worked really hard

Exactly right, I have! She smacked the steering wheel, her action matching the force of her words. You have no idea. No idea. The farm was almost bankrupt when I got here. If I hadnt figured out this co-op with the neighbors and these different festivals, Gran and I would probably be out on our tails. And thats after I talked everyone into it, handled all of the marketingdid you know we have an online presence now? Did you? And then planning four events in the last four months. She took a breath, but she wasnt done yet. Do you realize that it took me two months of cajoling, begging and then bribing to talk Mr. Thompson into doing the corn maze? Bribing? Argh! Thats all he got out of her whole diatribe? She spoke through gritted teeth. Yes, with several of my grans pecan pies. By now theyd reached the end of the dirt lane and Olive carefully pulled a u-turn before heading back to the festival grounds in her driveway. Jesse was blessedly silent, but Olives thoughts and emotions churned. She stopped the truck and trailer well outside the rope fenced area, so there was less chance of running over any kiddos, fully expecting Jesse to hop right out of the car and escape the awkwardness that descended with the silence when she turned the truck off. He didnt. Jesse blew out a gusty sigh. I really admire you. What? Had she heard him right? Never in a million years would she have expected those words to come out of Jesse Parkers lips. Her face flamed. Youve done good since youve been back in town. Im happy that things are going well for you. I really am. She held her breath; she could tell something else was still coming. I guess He forked his fingers through his thick brown hair and spoke to his lap. When I saw you last year, it brought back I mean I realized I still had feelings for you. She swallowed hard and tried to formulate a reply, but she couldnt seem to find any words. Jesse Parker had feelings for her? I thought all my feelings, the word seemed to be hard for him to say, had disappeared when you left right after graduation. I met Carrie, we got married, Josh came and then after Joshs mom died I was too busy raising my son to feel much of anything, but when you came back Olives chest felt as if a heavy weight rested there, crushing the air from her lungs. Shed known Jesse would move on after she left Peaceful right after high school, but she hadnt had a choice. Shed had secrets, and if Jesse had known them back then she felt sure he would have thought differently about her. If he knew her secrets now, it still might change his feelings for her. Jesse went on, oblivious to the turbulence of her thoughts. Everything else did too. At the time, I wanted you gone thought if you didnt stick around then things could go back to normal for me and Josh. The weight on Olives chest turned to fire. He didnt want her around? But now At that very moment, Joshs head popped up in the window at his fathers side. Daddy that was sooo fun! Can we go to the maze now? Please, can we?

PART THREE Olive practically ran from the truck, claiming she had to check on the soundstage, but Jesse thought it was probably an excuse the country music blaring from the speakers set up around the perimeter of the guest area was plenty loud for his tastes. That hadnt gone well. Shed bolted. Again. If he blinked long enough, he could pretend he was back in high school. Hed been on an adrenaline rush from getting through graduation; hed thought the world was his oyster back then. After the graduation ceremony, hed done the unthinkable for a shy, quiet guy like him hed invited the prettiest girl to take a ride in his truck. Theyd never made it out of the parking lot, had sat on the tailgate outside the high school gym until the sun came up. Just talking. Hed flown higher than ever before. And crashed. The very next day, Olive had left Peaceful and taken his heart with her. Evening, young man. Jesse looked up from his depressing thoughts to see he and Josh had walked right by Olives grandma, sitting on a rocker on her porch. Hi, Mrs. Thomason. Josh scampered up the porch steps for a hug Olives grandma had been his favorite Sunday school teacher before shed had her stroke. Whatcha doin? Josh asked, standing at the old womans knee. Why, Im guarding these prize-winning Jack-o-lanterns. Hafta make sure no young rascals mess up the ribbons or knock them over. By the time shed finished speaking, Josh had already turned to examine the display of what looked like forty or fifty Jack-o-lanterns spread on a stair-step shelf. Daddy, theres our punkin! He has a ribbon! Whats it say? Jesse came up the porch steps to stand behind his son and read the green ribbon glued to the top of their jack-o-lantern. It says: honorable mention. Whats that mean? It means you did a wonderful job on your jack-o-lantern, Mrs. Thomason answered before Jesse could. And the judge thought it was special. Oh, wow! Josh bounced twice, feet thudding on the porch. Thats so cool! Jesse gave an internal sigh of relief that Josh wasnt too disappointed they hadnt won. He didnt point out to his son that all the pumpkins that hadnt won had green ribbons on them. Josh moved to the end of the porch to look at the winning jack-o-lanterns and Jesse leaned one hip against the porch railing, crossing his arms over his chest. You look too serious for an event like this, Jesse. I saw you with my granddaughter earlier. She do something to upset you? No. No, of course not. No, hed done it, by making a fool of himself over Olive. Again. Hmm. You know, my granddaughter has been through a lot of pain. Id be obliged if youd tread carefully with her heart. He didnt know how to respond to that. What about his heart? A cell phone jangled nearby and Jesses head came up in time to see Olive round the corner of the house, carrying a couple of paper plates piled with slices of pie. Smelled like blackberry. She handed one to her Gran and juggled the other while trying to fish her phone out of her jeans pocket. Finally he took the pie from her and she shot him a grateful half-smile. It was better than no smile. Whats up, Sue Ann? Youre kidding. Olive groaned loud enough to turn even Joshs head from his pumpkin-watching. The boy came to stand next to Jesse, both of them watching her finish her conversation. Uh huh. Im on my way.

She clicked her phone closed. This for me? Jesse asked playfully, holding up the pie plate. You can have it. She hardly glanced at him, knelt next to her grandma. Someone lost their kid in the maze. Im going to go help look for him. You okay here? The older woman nodded and Olive kissed her worn cheek, then turned to go. Wait Jesse followed her off the porch steps. He motioned to himself and Josh. Well go with you. Maybe I can help find whoever got lost. Daddy, I dont wanna go. Jesse looked back to his son, now clinging to the arm of Mrs. Thomasons rocker, torn between his duty as a father and his desire to help Olive. I thought you wanted to do the maze? I changed my mind. Spoken like a five-year-old. I dont want to get lost, too! Dont worry, young man, Mrs. Thomason put in. Joshua can stay here and help me guard the jacko-lanterns. Well wait for you to get back. She patted Joshs hand and he beamed at her. It was all Jesse needed to see. He jogged off after Olive, who was already weaving her way through the crowd toward the banner that read Maize Maze on the far side. He realized he was still carrying that piece of pie. You mind if I eat this? Jesse asked, waving it in Olives direction. She shook her head and he scooped the dessert up with his fingers, not bothering with the plastic fork tucked underneath it. The warm, gooey deliciousness melted in his mouth. Mmm, mmm! he hummed, mouth full. She shot him an amused glance over her shoulder and shook her head. If I remember right, you always did like my Grans pies. Seems like you bought one or two at every bake sale since fifth grade. It was true. Your Gran bakes like no one else in the world. He disposed of the paper plate in a nearby trash can and when he turned back to Olive, found her face turned a pretty shade of pink. Um, I made the pies. The blackberry ones. Sue Ann from down the lane made the peach cobbler. Really? Wow. Then I guess Id better turn on the full power of my charm and convince you to marry me, he teased. When she looked miserable instead of cracking a smile, Jesses own smile faded. Nevermind. Lets just find this kid were looking for. He tromped forward into the mouth of the maze made of corn taller than he was. Better hope the kid had stayed on the path or they were in for a very long night. The sun was already getting low in the sky, turning the low-lying clouds all shades of orange, pink and red. Jesse. Olive touched his arm and his senses went on red-alert. This way. He followed her on the westerly of two paths, and the deeper they went into the maze, the quieter it got. As if theyd left everyone behind. He kept his eyes peeled for a child wandering by themselves, but so far they hadnt seen a soul. When I left Peaceful six years ago, I had a secret. Olives surprising statement hung in the air between them for a long moment. Jesse wondered if her secret had to do with the painful past her grandmother had mentioned. I left becausewell, it wasnt because of you. Not directly. Not directly? What does that mean? She touched his hand and nodded toward another path they hadnt tried yet. When she started to move away, Jesse tangled their fingers together and held on. And she let him. Do you remember graduation night? Of course I do. It gave this nerd hope that I could date a pretty girl someday. She half-laughed, half-snorted. You werent a nerd. Then, seriously, You were the first man who ever made me feel like I was valuable. As a person. He swallowed the knot of hope that suddenly formed in his throat. Because I talked to you instead of making a move? I really wanted to kiss you that night. She nodded. You know what my reputation was like back in high school. The fastest girl around.

He squeezed her hand. I never believed those rumors. You should have. Before I met Christ, I was a mess. She inhaled deeply. A tremor ran through her arm and down her hand. When I left Peaceful, I was three months pregnant. Jesses breath froze in his lungs. Olive pulled her hand away and turned to face him. The setting sun cast long shadows, and he couldnt read her closed expression. Thats part of why I left. I couldnt stand it if your reputation suffered because of me. Everyone in town knew you, loved you. No one even cared when I left. He had. Mommy! A high-pitched cry came from nearby, breaking the trance that seemed to surround them. A little girl walked into view seconds later. The missing child.

PART FOUR Olive escaped Jesses presence after returning the missing little girl to her very relieved mommy. She made her way to the trick-or-treat booths shed set up this morning to make sure the farmers, people from church, and her neighbors had enough candy. She greeted her friends and forced a smile she didnt really feel. Her thoughts ran over and over Jesses reaction. She hadnt seen the censure shed been so sure of all these years. But his eyes had still darkened, something had changed in the way he looked at her when shed admitted her reason for leaving Peaceful. And he didnt even know shed given the baby up for adoption. It hurt more than it should. She found Grans still on the porch and stood with her to watch the kids parade by in their costumes. Her eyes kept straying to Super-Josh and his daddy, and each time she caught herself watching them, she berated herself for wishful thinking. She wanted Jesse to love her. Wanted to be a part of his and Joshs life. Jesse had wanted to be her friend in high school and more, according to him when her reputation had been questionable at best. Now that he knew the truth, was there any chance of a future together? She just didnt know. When Olive couldnt bear the ache in her chest anymore, she took a small gas lighter and snuck out behind the house where nearly five hundred jack-o-lanterns lined a path down to the small pond and the bonfire that would be lit at twilight. It was almost dark, she might as well start lighting. Sue Ann would be arriving to help her in a minute. Dark fell just as she lit the last of the jack-o-lanterns. The extra stadium-type lights theyd rigged up near the house went dark, and all that remained were the twinkling jack-o-lantern lights and the bonfire crackling behind her. Olive slipped behind the table laden with smore-making supplies, intending to hide there until the evening was over. She watched people meander down the lit pathway in groups and clumps, parents often toting their smaller, exhausted kiddos. A pang of jealousy speared her. She wanted a family of her own. As much as Olive tried not to watch for Jesse and Josh, her eyes kept drifting through the new arrivals anyway. Maybe theyd already gone home. Then something caught her attention, a leaf crunching under his boot? a soft sound from the sleeping bundle he carried? It didnt matter, because Jesse was there, Josh conked out and held protectively on his dads shoulder. Come sit with me, Jesse murmured. She started to shake her head but he nudged her elbow with his and nodded his head toward an empty pair of lawn chairs at the back of the crowd gathering around the fire. Heart thundering in her ears, she followed. She would regret it for the rest of her life if she didnt at least see what he had to say. She perched gingerly on the edge of the chair next to Jesse, careful not to bump the booted legs he stretched out in front of him. I know how he feels, Jesse whispered, jerking his chin toward Josh. Im pooped. You shouldve gone home. Cant. Not done with our talk. She didnt want to have this conversation here, out in public. A blush heated her cheeks. Then again, they were talking so quietly to keep from waking Josh that probably no one else could hear. She hoped so anyway. Josh wants a mom, Jesse said. And I think hes picked you. It was so not what she expected him to say that her mouth fell open. He talks about you all the time, Jesse went on. That doesnt mean he wants me to be his mommy! Olive hissed. No, I knowwe just read a lot of books about mommies. He chooses them, not me.

Jesse Olive couldnt help the tears that sprang to her eyes. He was talking about one of her most cherished dreams I cant Just hear me out. He shifted Josh in his arms, freeing up one hand that quickly slid over and grasped Olives. I think its clear that we both have there was that cough again, feelings for each other. She smiled a soggy smile. Are you trying to say you love me? Jesse cleared his throat. Yeah. Im not that great at talking about mushy stuff. Do you love me back? She nodded, shaking all over now. He loved her. But, Jesse, my past He squeezed her hand. Honey, weve all got ugly stuff in our past. You can tell me all about it, and Ill listen. But when you accepted Jesus, He made you clean and new again. Thats all that matters to me. His words were too good to be true. A soft sob escaped Olives lips and, embarrassed, she tried to get her hand back from Jesse so she could cover up her face. He didnt let her. Instead, he pulled her out of her chair and against his chest, where at least she could hide her face. Josh squirmed and his sleepy voice said, Daddy? You and Miss Olive are squishing me. Whys she crying? Jesses voice was a rumble under her cheek. Im pretty sure its cause shes happy. Olive? She nodded, chin rubbing against the material of Jesses jacket. Whats going on? Whys she happy? She laughed through her tears, pushing back from Jesses hold and ruffling Joshs hair. Jesse caught and held her eyes, his own joy shining bright enough for her to see clearly. Son, I think shes happy because shes going to be your mommy. Really? Yep. She kissed both of them for good measure. THE END

GREEN PEAS SNEEZE By LACY WILLIAMS

DAY 0, AFTERNOON. ATTEMPT 1. The door opened before Sarah Fortini was ready. Hey! Brand Turners smile always made her knees weak and today was no exception. His blue eyes crinkled at the corners, just so, and his brown hair was stylishly disheveled. She resisted reaching for the doorframe, praying her wobbly legs would support her. Thank goodness youre here. Cmon in. Um He disappeared and she had no choice but to follow him inside the gorgeous two-story brick home. She knew the houses in this upscale Austin, Texas neighborhood were expensive, but she wasnt expecting the ornate furniture or shiny wood floors. It was enough to make her lose her nerve. Shed come to ask Brand to marry her, and she was praying hed say yes. Sorry, he called over his shoulder as he led the way into a well-appointed living room. I just found out the office wants me to come in for a couple hours. Jerry Brand caught a shrieking boy as he jumped from the back of the couch. Dont even think about it, Brand ordered with his finger pointed at Josh, age three, who knelt on the opposite sofa. Sarah knew the little boy from Bible class. He didnt jump off furniture in Bible class. The baby jabbered nonsense and rammed its round walker-thingie into a side table, apparently wanting in on the action. Youre Sarah, right? From Joshs class? At least he remembered her name. Did he also remember the hour-long conversation theyd shared at the last singles retreat? It had changed Sarahs life. Made her realize what was really important in her life. And that she didnt currently have it. Im glad youre here. He was? Sarahs insides fired up. Brand waved her into the room right off the living area, a kitchen messy and all three boys followed them. All the other candidates have been old or scary, Brand went on. Yeah, scary, echoed Jerry with a five-year-olds wisdom. Piercings, Brand mouthed, motioning a circle over his own face. What? She had no idea what he was talking about. Candidates? Can you stay with the boys for an hour or so? That way I can take care of this meeting. If you make it through, the jobs yours. Um, job? They pays good it has to be for these hooligans Brand nudged the babys carrier-ma-jig over the threshold into the kitchen while using the reflection in the toaster to loop the tie he picked up off the counter around his neck. She hadnt noticed before that he wore slacks and a dress shirt. But we can discuss all that when I get back. He picked up a briefcase from the top of the fridge. Jerry! Keys? Sarah jumped at Brands unexpected exclamation. The oldest boy pointed to the counter. Brand snatched up a keyring tucked behind a cereal bowl with spoon still in it. He was leaving? He was leaving! Will you Marry me? Thanks, Brand called over his shoulder, blowing a kiss in her general direction. Sarah was left starting at three boys, all looking back at her. She had no idea what to do with them.

DAY 0 EVENING. A neighbor had come earlier to see what all the screaming was about, but left when she saw Jerry chasing his brothers through the living room. Sarah was surprised no one had called the cops yet. And that she still had some hearing left after three hours of nonstop shouting. The screaming changed tone with Brand came in the garage door. Cheeks flushed from embarrassment that she hadnt been able to control the situation, Sarah yelled out to him over the ruckus, How do you get them to stop? Brand shrugged and let out a roar, forming his hands into claws and giving chase, losing his jacket and tie as he went. Well. At least the noise had moved out of her general vicinity. He poked his head back in the doorway. Will you stay for dinner? When the boys were finally in bed a couple of hours later, Sarah stood at the sink, absently drying the last of the dishes. She put it carefully silently on the counter. Yes, the quiet was nice. You didnt have to wash up. Brands voice startled her and she whirled, the dish towel snapping in her hands. She put one hand over her now-racing heart and glared at Brand, who leaned against the far counter, hair disheveled. Its no big deal, she replied when she was sure her voice wouldnt squeak. Trust me, it is. Ive been meaning to get the dishwasher fixed, but I havent had time. She nodded. In her few hours at the home, it was clear there were several things that hadnt been changed since his late wifes death. An outdated calendar on the fridge. Magazines on the coffee table, stained and water-wrinkled. It made her wonder if he was still mourning his wife, and thats why the things had been left undone. It wasnt a good feeling. Maybe she shouldnt ask him You didnt come here today to be my kids nanny, did you? Her eyes flew to his face. He looked exhausted. Funny how she hadnt noticed the lines bracketing his mouth, though shed watched him all through dinner. Or maybe hed been smiling so much the lines had blended right in. No, I came The words stuck in her throat. She cleared it. I didnt realize you were going back to work. He exhaled, fanned a hand through the hair at his nape. Have to. Only half time, though. The insurance money is just about gone. The coffee machine beeped and Brand looked at it like hed never seen it before. Sarah pulled out a mug shed located them when putting all the dishes away and filled it with the aromatic brew. Though you might need it. When shed seen the pile of paperwork hed set aside with his briefcase. How could he work and take care of the three boys and the household chores all on his own? He accepted it with a grateful sniff. I will. Thank you. He took a long drink, leaned his hips against the counter behind him. This close, she could reach out and touch him if she wanted. And she wanted. She just wasnt sure how hed react. He stared off into space, expression pensive. I havent had a cup of coffee this good since before Gina died. The heaviness in his voice was her undoing. Her hand was on his arm, a simple touch on his forearm and she felt it all the way to her bones. His eyes met hers; she let her hand slip off his sleeve. Im sorry. Was she apologizing for his loss or the touch? The emotions rioting through her made it impossible to tell.

He shifted his feet, rand his hand over his face. Thanks. But you didnt come here to listen to me whine. Why did you come here? Again, the words just wouldnt come out. Maybe I could help with the boys until you find someone else. You said there werent any good candidates today, but you can keep looking, right? And my job is pretty flexible. It was. Thats one of the main reasons she ran her own company, an IT support business. His shoulders lifted. Really? Youd help us out? Yeah. And so much more, if he would let her. Well, great. Can you come tomorrow? Sure. Theres only one problem. I dont know anything about kids.

DAY 1, MORNING. ATTEMPT 2. You really werent kidding, were you? Shed dreamed about the last few moments with Brand all night, including the rich-as-chocolate chuckle hed gifted her with before ushering her out the door, so it seemed natural to Sarah that their conversation flowed right from where theyd left off. As natural as it could while she held a gurgling baby with green goop smeared all over his face. No, I wasnt kidding. But she couldnt keep from responding to Brands smile. She laughed. Can I ask how you ended up helping in Joshs Bible school class? Brand slapped a sandwich into a baggie and tossed it into the briefcase located, once again, on top of the fridge. Its the only place they cant reach, he explained when he caught her open-mouthed look. A friend Gale roped me into it. All I do is give the kids Cheerios and keep them from taking each others toys. Gale does the real work. Well, the sharing thing is a good strategy to start with. I wrote down a couple other things, in case you were serious last night. Good thing, too. She smiled, knowing it was wan. Are you sure you trust me with your kids? Yup. He pressed a half-piece of notebook paper into her hand. Sarah glanced at it. Not much of an instruction manual. She was used to hefty tomes with specific instructions. At least on most software programs there was a HELP function she could use for troubleshooting. Or she could Google it. Did Google find instructions for dealing with kids? Brand was heading for the door at an alarming rate and she wasnt sure she trusted herself with the boys. WaitBrand Sorry to rush off, but I have an early conference call The door shut and Sarah looked at the goo-covered baby on her hip. He sniffled. Well, here we are. Its Jamie, right? He let out a wail. I know just what you mean, kiddo.

DAY 2 AFTERNOON. Jerry hated her. Josh copied his older brother in everything, so she spent the day dealing with two recalcitrant boys. Luckily the baby seemed to love everyone, even those who had no idea how to wrangle little kids into a semblance of order. The boys didnt like the lunch shed made grilled cheese and soup. Naps were for babies and they wouldnt take one, even though Josh was clearly cranky. She was exhausted. Why werent they? By the time Brand pulled in the driveway, she knew there was a major hurdle to overcome before they could get married. His boys needed to be won over. How did it go? Brand whispered after sneaking into the kitchen; the boys were still in the living room. His quicksilver grin made it all seem worth it. She didnt want to mention her despair. Jer and Josh and I didnthit it off so well. Understatement. His brows came together in puzzlement. But they loved you last night. Yeah, well, last night I didnt try to make them take a nap. Just then, two shrieking boys, followed by one babbling baby rushed into the room with cries of, Daddy! Clearly, she was an unwanted female presence. Until Brand raised his head on the way out of the room, boys under each arm, Stay for dinner again? ### I didnt mean for you to cook dinner again. Brand collapsed on the wicker porch swing next to Sarah, leaving the boys to play in the sprinkler under their watchful eyes. Twilight was falling, making the moment seem romantic. Except for the screaming. Its okay. I put the roast in earlier so there wasnt much left to do. He rolled his head on the back of the seat and look at her. His gaze felt palpable. She kept her eyes on the boys playing. Its a big deal to me. Just like the coffee. The boys need more home-cooked meals and Im not much of a chef. Im not either. I just found a recipe and followed the directions. Mmm. You seem to be good at that. Following directions. I noticed you kept number five on my list. Keep the boys safe and happy. There wasnt a number five on your list. She knew, because shed gone back to the list of instructions several times, wondering if shed missed something. And they werent exactly happy. Happy enough. What about your happiness? she asked, feeling braver than she had the first day when shed knocked on his door. Who worries about that? He considered her question seriously, head tilted to one side while he watched the boys. I guess the honest answer is no one. She really wanted to touch him. Just a hand on his arm like shed done last night, but she clutched her hands in her lap, unsure if hed want that. Do you think thats healthy? What if you get burned out? He leaned his elbows on his knees, pressing both index fingers against his lips. I dont have all the answers, Sarah. I just try to get by one day at a time. She inhaled deeply. Now or never. Have you ever consider, erm remarrying? It wasnt exactly the question she wanted to ask, but it was close. His blue eyes flickered up to meet her gaze, which he held for so long she lost her breath. I have, but Sarah caught her exhale.

I couldnt consider anyone unless my boys loved her as much as I did.

DAY 16, AFTERNOON. ATTEMPT 3. Youre not my mommy! Sarah flinched at Jerrys defiant proclamation. The boy must have sensed the flash of hurt that passed through her, because he went on. You cant tell me what to do. Sarah inhaled on a prayer for patience, which she sorely needed today. I know Im not your mommy, but I am in charge. That means you have to do as I say. She took hold of the now-screaming boys arm and propelled him down the hall to his room. Five minutes in time out, Sarah said, voice firm. She desperately needed a time out of her own. For the last two weeks, the boys had run her ragged during the day. But each day was worth it when Brand came home and they all ate together. Shed been making inroads with Josh and Jamie. Last night both younger boys had snuggled on her lap for their bedtime story. Only Jerry remained aloof. Today hed been downright insubordinate. And this morning shed received a call on her emergency phone. Only two clients two high-paying clients had that number. Shed been trying to call Mr. Smith back all day, but each time something had interrupted her. Maybe now that Jerry was contained in his room and the other two boys played quietly in the living room Sarah sidled into the nook in the hallway, dialing her phone. She leaned her head against the cool wall, enjoying the warm wood floors on her bare feet. She loved this house. Loved the boys, even Jerry and his challenging ways. Loved Brand Hi, Mr. Smith, she said when her client picked up. Sorry I havent gotten back to you yet. At that moment, Josh came barreling out of the living room, holding up a singing bear. And Jerry ran down the stairs, toward her, screaming. Brand rounded the corner from the kitchen. He mustve arrived early from work. Whats going on? he demanded. A squawk came from the telephone, held out from Sarahs ear. She burst into tears. For one moment, Brand looked panicked, but then he took charge. Jerry, Josh, living room, he ordered. He took Sarahs phone from her nerveless fingers. Shell call you back, he said into the receiver before snapping it shut. Sarah tried to turn her face away, so he wouldnt see her silly tears, but Brand simply took her into his arms, tucking her head against his shoulder. Ssh. His hand rubbed circles on her back. Nice. When Sarah felt more in control of herself, she reached up to wipe the wetness from her cheeks, and Brand stepped back. Okay? he asked. Mmm. She would be, when she got over the humiliation of breaking down in front of Brand and the boys. She never cried. Sorry, she muttered, keeping her gaze down. Im just surprised youve lasted this long without breaking down. Dealing with three boys will do that to you. She looked up, smiled wryly. Thankfully, he didnt seem too spooked by her tears. Thanks, I think. Palm open for her phone, she said, I need to call my client back. I think he had an emergency this morning. I just hope it wasnt anything big. Brand showed her into his office his sacred room where the boys werent allowed to visit. Fortunately Mr. Smith had grandkids and was very understanding. His problem was an easy fix she was able to solve on the phone.

When she finished her call, she went searching for Brand. She found all three boys in the kitchen with their father, Josh and Jamie at the table with snacks, while Brand had pulled Jerry aside and knelt in front of him. They appeared to be in serious conversation, so Sarah hung back just outside the kitchen doorway. Were you misbehaving for Miss Sarah today? Jerry stared at the floor, lips formed in a stubborn pout. Jerry. Sarah was constantly amazed at Brands patience. Shed never seen him lose his temper with the boys. Dont you like Miss Sarah? Jerrys lower lip began to tremble. Doesnt she treat you good? Cook good food for you? Take you to your soccer games? Make cupcakes for your church class? Yes! The boy burst out. But shes gonna leave. I heard you say shed only here for awhile. I dont want her to go! Sarah couldnt stop herself. She rushed into the kitchen and Jerry ran into her outstretched arms. She peppered kisses on his cheeks and forehead. My sweet boy, she said, holding Brands gaze over the top of Jerrys head. Im not going anywhere.

DAY 16, EVENING. FINAL ATTEMPT. Sarah smoothed her blue skirt and white blouse with her clean hand, the other holding a spoonful of Jamies baby food, mashed green peas. Im just gonna do it, she told her captive audience. Jamie in his high chair. Do what? She shrieked and whirled, hand going over her heart. Brand! Dont sneak up on me. He raised his brows. Its my kitchen. Jamie cackled from behind Sarah, Jerry and Josh grinned from their places at the table. See, the boys all agree. Now, what is it youre gonna do? Sarah squared her shoulders. Ask you a question. Jamie gasped and, distracted, Sarah turned to the boy, only for him to sneeze. All over her. Silence fell on the kitchen. Sarah looked down to see her pretty white shirt had been splattered with the peas Jamie had been eating. She laughed, and after a startled moment, all the Turner men joined in. Brand ran water over a dishcloth and moved to wipe her cheek, which brought him close enough to kiss. If she were of a mind to do that. For a second there, I thought you were gonna cry, he teased. She rolled her eyes. If you wouldve come in five minutes later this afternoon, I wouldve had everything under control. He tapped her nose with his finger. I dont doubt it. His expression turned serious. I appreciate you. Youre doing a fine job with the boys. Well. Good. I think you should marry me and keep me around forever. The corner of his mouth quirked up in a grin that set her heart to pounding. You do, huh? Boys, what do you think? Yeah! Jerry shouted. Josh and Jamie caught his excitement and started yelling too, though Sarah doubted they knew what was going on. Brand brought his mouth to her ear to be heard over the noise. Sure you want this crazy life forever? She beamed up at him. Yep. He kissed her to seal the deal. THE END.

KATES VALENTINE A Choose-Your-Own-Romance Story By LACY WILLIAMS

PART ONE Four oh two. Brody flicked the curtain back in place, cutting off his view of the white truck with the logo of the pool care company painted on its side. And the woman with the blond ponytail inside. He could count on Kate. She always arrived Wednesdays between three-fifty and ten after four. And never accepted his invitations to stay for a few minutes and have a drink. Coffee, lemonade, water. Shed turned them all down, always offering the excuse that she had to stick to her schedule. Always softening the excuse with a smile, one that charmed his socks off. But today he wasnt going to offer her something to drink. Today he was going to ask her out. Maybe. Brody released the handbrake on his wheelchair and maneuvered through the house. The tile floors common to this area of Florida were easy enough to navigate, and it hadnt taken long for him to rearrange the furniture once he realized the wheelchair was going to be a permanent fixture in his life. Two years after the accident, just in time for Valentines Day, he was finally getting his confidence back. Mostly. He paused just inside the double sliding-glass doors that led to the patio and pool area. He glimpsed Kates slim figure rounding the house to where the hot tub controls were located. The old Brody wouldnt have hesitated to ask Kate on a date. She was everything hed liked. Beautiful. Most of the time she wore her long blond hair in a neat ponytail or braid. Her blue eyes were filled with warmth and often, humor. She was quick to smile. The post-accident Brody noticed the quiet strength that permeated her attitude. And the changed hopefully, improvedBrody also noticed her fearless mentions of her church family, her faith. It was funny how the things he valued had changed along with his body in two short years. From shallow to what really mattered. Coming face-to-face with your own mortality could do that to a man. Brody inhaled deeply and slid the door open. Kate looked up from where she crouched next to the pool, a warm smile lighting her eyes. He could do this. Maybe. Hey, Mr. FI mean, Brody. Her cheeks pinked. Hed been asking her since her third appointment to call him by his first name. New wheels? He glanced down at his chair. Yeah. Therapist says I can use this all-terrain chair anywhere. Grass, gravel. Im really hoping to get down to the beach, but well see It was the thing he missed most about his loss of mobility. Having to be carried out like a child just to touch his toes to the waves was worse than dreaming about surfing, his favorite pastime. He needed to get back to the water. Had to So youre erm, practicing? Brody jerked back to the conversation, silently berating himself. Today was not the day to lose his train of thought! Yeah. Therapist recommended I get used to the chairs movement in a familiar environment. She nodded and hmmed as she extracted the little tube that would show the chlorine levels in his pool. He hoped he wasnt boring her. If he couldnt make it through one conversation to ask her out, how could he expect her to believe hed be a charming dinner companion? His hands started to sweat. Listen, Kate. I was wondering umm Does Brody ask Kate out? GO TO PART 2 Does Brody wait for next time? GO TO PART 3

PART TWO Kate flipped her ponytail over her shoulder and looked up at Brody as he hesitated. She hadnt heard him sound so uncertain since the first time shed encountered him after his accident. Brody was a take-charge kind of guy, even without the use of his legs. Someone she could admire. She wiped her chlorine-wet palm on her uniform khaki shorts and straightened the collar of her red polo. Wished she wasnt quite so aware of how she looked. Okay, so she had a huge crush on Brody! Where hed been tall and fit before the car crash, now his shoulders and upper arms were defined through his t-shirt. She knew he worked his legs as well, even though he couldnt stand. His dark curls and ebony eyes had been haunting her dreams for months. Too bad he was way out of her league. Shed been born into a middle class family, but things had changed when her father had left. Kates mom had done the best she could, but without any education or work history, supporting two kids meant shed had to work three jobs for them to get by. Kate had grown up mothering her younger brother, something he still complained of, until shed gotten her first job at age fourteen. Then her mom had gotten sick. Really sick. Cancer. And Kate dropped out of high school to take over as provider for the family. She couldnt regret it, not when her mom was still alive and ornery. Even if it did mean Kate was still working her way through night school at age twenty-five. But it was a little hard to bear when she was faced with a man shed love to invite to her moms for Sunday lunch. One who was a wildly successful author, had two degrees hung on his office wall, and whose eyes sparkled with intelligence. Way out of her league. Kate finished the pH test and stood up. Sorry, she said, face blazing. I kinda wandered off there. Did you want to ask me something? Yes. Umm Brody closed his eyes for a brief moment, almost as if he was bracing himself for something. Would you have dinner with me this weekend? Does Kate agree to the date? GO TO PART FIVE Does Kate decline? GO TO PART SEVEN

PART THREE Was that an engine? Brody shifted in his wheelchair, half-hidden behind a bush in his neighbors yard. A glance through the almost-bare branches showed his across-the-street neighbors approaching their home. Brody hoped the person he waited for arrived soonit was getting dark and he didnt want his neighbors thinking he was crazy. Even if he was loitering in their yard. He had to find out if Kate was his delivery fairy. People from his church had brought home-cooked meals once hed come home from the hospital, but theyd tapered off after a couple of months. All except Thursday nights. An anonymous donor continued to drop off mealslasagnas, chicken casseroles, even a delicious rack of ribs oncebut hed never been able to catch the culprit in the act. The meals always showed up on his front step between five and six pm, usually boxed. And something Kate had let slip last weeka comment about a Thursday afternoon appointment had made him suspicious that his delivery fairy might be her. So now hed been hiding behind this bush for nearly an hour and he was starting to feel foolish. What if he secret benefactor wasnt Kate, but an elderly widow from his church? If it was so important for the person to preserve their anonymity, maybe there was a good reason. But he really wanted it to be Kate. Hed chickened out on asking her out for a date last week, but he was determined to ask her to stay and share the meal with him. If it was Kate. What if it wasnt? Waffling, Brody started to wheel himself down the sidewalk toward his home; he was half-exposed when a familiar white pickup crawled to a stop two houses down. Kates truck. She got out, blond hair tumbling loose around her shoulders. A pair of dark jeans hugged her slender hips as she hustled over the grass to deposit a cardboard boxhis dinneron the step. She didnt wait around, was hurrying back to her truck when Brody realized she was going to get away if he didnt do something. He had two choices. He could ease back behind the bush and shed never know hed seen her. Or he could catch up to her and persuade her to share dinner with him. Does Brody catch up to Kate? GO TO PART FOUR Does Brody wait for next time? GO TO PART EIGHT

PART FOUR Kate froze with her foot on the trucks brake pedal and her hand on the gearshift. Was that? It was. Brody wheeled his chair right down the center of the residential street toward her. Had he seen her make the food delivery? His waving arm and wide smile certainly indicated hed seen something. Embarrassment swamped her. She felt a little like a teen spying on the object of her secret crush. For a moment she considered stomping on the gas and racing away, but that wouldnt solve anything. Keegan, her mutt of a dog, shifted on the bench seat next to her and groaned a doggie groan. I know, she soothed him. Were caught. Well and truly caught. She started to roll down the window, then realized Brody would have to stretch halfway out of the wheelchair to reach the pickup window. She got out of the car instead, Keegan following her out. The dog approached and sniffed Brody, who accepted the welcome with a rub and a soft, Hi, fella. Didnt your mama teach you not to play in the middle of the street? Kate teased gently. Yeah. Brody grinned up at her, one hand buried in Keegans ruff. But I was in a hurry. He glanced pointedly at the front step. I guess I should thank you for making sure I get fed once a week. He had seen her. A flush heated her cheeks. Its no big deal. You dont have to thank me. She hadnt done it for recognition. It had started as a way to support him when hed been unable to do much for himself. Then it had morphed into a secret connection between them. Even if he never found out shed brought the meals for him, she knew. He reached out and clasped her hand in his larger, warm fingers. I want to. Come in and eat with me, will you? She shouldnt. He tugged on her hand, gently, and winked. Ill even invite Kujo here in. I dont have anything breakable at his level anyway. Saves me from knocking knickknacks off with my elbows. Kate allowed him to tug her forward. She waited momentarily as he navigated the incline at the bottom of his driveway. She was really going to do this. Have dinner with Brody. GO TO PART SIX

PART FIVE Kate took a deep breath on Brodys front step. Her finger rested on the doorbell but she hadnt pressed it yet. She shouldnt have come. What had prompted her to say yes to his dinner invitation? He out-classed her. A light flicked on behind the door and the knob rattled. Brody appeared, a welcoming smile on his face. No turning back now. GO TO PART SIX

PART SIX Kate followed Brody into a well-appointed kitchen. The granite countertops and fine woodwork were so much nicer than the Formica and buttercorn yellow cabinets at home. A reminder that she and Brody came from different worlds. Brody wheeled up to one of the cabinets and pulled out a couple of plates and then extracted silverware from a drawer. This is really nice, Kate said, looking around. After the accident, I had to have the counters lowered and then rearrange the whole kitchen, he said with a self-deprecating smile. Shed never really spoken to him about his disability. It hadnt seemed appropriate when she was simply his pool-girl. She didnt really know if it was proper now, but the words were already coming out of her mouth. I hope you wont think this is rude, but you havent seemed to have that hard a time adjusting to to Not having use of my legs anymore? he finished for her. You want to set the table? She took the plates and silverware from him. Ive had my moments, he went on, removing a dish from the box hed set on the counter when they came into the kitchen and pulling away the foil that covered the top. Some things have been harder to bear than others. Brody put a folded towel across his lap and settled the dish on topa pasta casserole that was her moms recipe. He motioned her to a doorway on the right. The dining rooms there. You probably noticed Im a little nervous tonight. I havent dated since the accident. Im afraid I might be rusty His words ringing in her earshe thought this was a REAL date!Kate moved on autopilot toward the doorway. One glance into the formal dining room brought her out of her stupor. The heavy, long table and expensive floral arrangement were so fancy It looked like it seated twelve! How could she be herself when faced with this reminder of the differences between Brodys circumstances and hers? Thinking as quickly as possible, Kate called over her shoulder. Could we eat out on the patio? Its a nice night. And it was. February in this area of Florida averaged highs around seventy degrees, but today had been a bit warmer. Beautiful, really. And she didnt want to eat in that stilted, formal dining room. Sure, the patios fine, came Brodys voice behind her. Just go back through the living room. She did, Keegans nails clacking on the floor behind her. Shed almost forgotten that her canine companion had been invited on this date with her. With any luck, hed behave himself tonight and not beg for scraps too much. Kate moved out onto the patio. Her territory. She spoke as she set out the plates and arranged the cutlery, aware that Brody wheeled out the door right behind her, pasta balanced on his lap. So whyd you pick me? To do this date, I mean Kate cut herself off, embarrassed that she couldnt get the words out right. She closed her eyes, praying he wouldnt say, because you were the only woman around. Brodys warm hand enveloping hers brought her eyes open. His serious, dark gaze showed sincerity. I asked you to dinner tonight because you captivate me. I want to get to know you better. Oh. Kate knew she was flushing. What a nice thing to say. But would he still feel the same when he found out about her background? She was a high school dropout, after all Brody released her hands and pulled out a chair for Kate to sit down in. Their knees knocked when he wheeled himself up to the table. Whoops. Sorry. Its okay. Every touch, even the accidental ones, served to discombobulate her more. Shed been attracted to Brody from the start, but the connection jumping between them was almost frightening in its intensity.

She tried to compose herself while Brody offered a prayer for the meal, but his warm, attentive look as the prayer ended sent her heart soaring. Should she just let go and allow the evening to play out as it would? For someone who was used to planning her days in fifteen-minute increments, it wouldnt be easy. So I know you take care of pools like mine during the day, but what else do you do, Kate? Any hobbies? Kate kept her eyes on her plate as Brody loaded it with the casserole and a slice of the garlic bread he mustve brought out with it. I dont really have time for hobbies. Im still working on my bachelors degree. Night school. Would he comment on her long-term plan? Ask why she wasnt finished with her degree yet? Thats great. His comment surprised her into raising her gaze. He didnt seem to think anything of her school situation, was actually digging into his pasta. Mmm. And so is this, he said when hed swallowed his bite. Thanks. Its my moms recipe. Id love to meet her sometime and tell her how wonderful it is. So what are you studying? Kate had just taken a bite and motioned that she needed a moment. Brody grinned at her. Wait, let me guess. Advanced Pool Treatments? Kate took a sip of water to wash down the pasta but spluttered it at his comment. She shook her head and dabbed her mouth with her napkin. Hmm. Not it, huh? What about Something in athletics? I think you must really like working outside Wrong again, Kate said with a chuckle. Biology. Really? Interesting. She wanted to change the subject before he wondered why she was still working on her degree at twenty-five. What about you? I couldnt help but see you had a manuscript laid out on the living room couch. What are you working on? For the first time tonight, a cloud passed over his face. He frowned. Not what my agent wants to see. He blew out a breath, waving his fork in the air as he spoke his next words. She wants me to write a travel guide for those with physical limitations is how she puts it. But you dont want to? Kate asked, genuinely confused. Ill bet it would sell, with your reputation She tried to hide her grimace behind a bite of garlic bread. She hadnt meant to reveal just how much shed followed his books. It might, came his casual reply. He shrugged. But if I write that kind of book, it would feel like Giving up? she guessed, fascinated by the play of emotions crossing his face. Exactly. Giving up. Color swamped his cheekbones as he went on. I know the doctors dont think theres much chanceany chance, reallythat Ill get back mobility in my legs, but Now it was Kates turn to touch him. She brushed her fingertips across the back of his hand. But we both know that God works miracles sometimes. ### Kate couldnt stop laughing as Brody regaled her with stories of disasters hed had during his travels. She stretched her feet out in the hot tubhed talked her into sticking their feet in after dessertand leaned back on her palms, more relaxed than shed been in a long time. She was enormously happy shed decided to come tonight. Im glad you came tonight, Brody said, bumping her shoulder with his, and she laughed again. I was thinking the same thing. Yeah? He turned toward her and suddenly they were face-to-faceclose enough that she could see the lighter flecks in his ebony eyes. Her breath lodged in her chest. Was he going to kiss her?

He didnt. Instead, he leaned his forehead against hers, and the moment was almost more intimate than a kiss would have been. We should try an outing for our next date, Brody said, holding her gaze. Kate allowed her eyebrows to raise. Youre sure there will be a second date? Im hopeful. And she could see it in his eyes. She was still fearful that he would find out about her past and decide she was too far outside his social class to continue a relationship. But hed taken the chance asking her for dinner Maybe she should take a chance too. Listen, my friend is having a party at, he named one of the nearby beaches, on Valentines Day. Would you come with me? Kate leaned her head to one side. My mom cooks a fabulous pot roast, and shes planning on making lunch on Sunday. Would you like to come to lunch and meet her and my brother? Does Kate agree to meet Brody at the beach party? GO TO PART TEN Does Brody agree to join Kates family for lunch? GO TO PART NINE

PART SEVEN Four days to Valentines Day. A truck door slammed and Brody looked up from his computer. A glance out the office window showed Kates truck in his driveway. Was it that time already? Brody wiped his suddenly sweaty hands on his gym shorts and grimaced at the paint-splattered t-shirt he wore. It was a favorite, soft and worn in, but Hed meant to change before Kates pool-cleaning appointment this afternoon but been caught up in a first draft of his new book. It was no wonder shed declined his invitation to dinner last week. He knew there were several times shed seen him at his worst, right after the accident. He absently rubbed the ugly scars that showed on his right knee, a reminder of how broken hed been. Including his attitude. She probably felt sorry for him. Ouch. Nothing for it, but to go back to being pals, no matter how much it galled him. He wheeled into the kitchen and fixed a couple of tall glasses of lemonade, then loaded them into the makeshift cup-holder he used. He attached it to the arm of his wheelchair and forced himself to join Kate by the pool. Hey, he greeted, placing the glasses on the glass-topped patio table. Fixed you a drink if you can spare a few minutes. Oh. Thanks. Yeah, she sounded real enthused about it. She barely looked up from where she was adding chlorine tablets to a little container that he knew she would put in the pool. Instead of waiting for her excuse as to why she couldnt stay, Brody plunged ahead with the apology hed planned. Listen, Im sorry if I made you uncomfortable the other day He swallowed past the lump of embarrassment in his throat and tried to remind himself that he was no less of a man just because all his limbs didnt work correctly. When I asked you out. That wasnt my intention. I just really like you and Okay, he hadnt meant to blurt that out. He rushed on. I know Im not not exactly a prize catch with these two chunks of driftwood, he slapped one of his thighs to emphasize his point, not working, and I know Ive had my moments where my attitude hasnt been the best Kate dropped the little basket into the pool with a splash and stood up, wiping her hands on her khaki shorts. Thats not it at all, Brody. It wasnt? Hope leapt to life in his chest, and sounded an awful lot like his heart thrumming. There are things you dont know about me For the first time in all the times hed asked her to share a cold drink with him, she sat down at the patio table and began fiddling with one of the lemonade glasses. Brody maneuvered his wheelchair up to the table next to her, hoping his face showed he wanted to hear what she had to say. She took a deep breath. Im Suddenly she turned her head to the side so that he had a profile view. Goodness, this is harder to say than I thought it would be. Im just going to say it. She gulped another breath. Im just going to say it, she repeated. Closed her eyes. I never graduated high school. Brody heard the words but they didnt register at first. When the silence lengthened, Kate finally looked at him. She mustve read his confusion because she went on. I dropped out of high school when I was sixteen. Because My mom got cancer and my brother and I had to eat somehow. And you got your diploma Her eyes narrowed at his leading statement, but she continued the sentence. GED. I was nineteen.

And thats why youre still in school? A nod. So Are you telling me that the reason you turned me down was because of something that happened what? Seven, eight years ago? Her face flushed. Nine. But, Brody, Ive been in your office. I saw your degrees framed on the wall. I have a hard time believing youd want to be in a relationship with someone who isnt as smart as you are. You are intelligent, Kate. Those degrees are just pieces of paperI know Ive learned more about life outside of the classroom. He looked down at his lap. Including this, he gestured to his legs. This was his chance. To go big and hopefully get what he wanteda date with Kate. Brody hoped his hand was steady as he reached out and took Kates hand in his. What youve just told me confirms what I already knew about you. You have a big heart. Kates face remained a rosy hue. Its something I really admire. A lot more than a college degree. So I guess the question is She met his eyes. Held his gaze this time. Her response gave him enough hope to put himself out there again. Will you go out with me? Theres a party my friend is throwing on Valentines Day, out at a nearby beach. Would you come? For a moment, he feared she would reject him again, but then she smiled and said a soft, Okay. GO TO PART TEN

PART EIGHT Chicken. Thats what he was. The old Brody never would have wasted a thought on asking out Katehe just would have done it. Not chickened out. Twice. Brody watched her truck roll into the driveway and allowed the blinds in his office to flick closed. The question was was he going to chicken out a third time? Brody straightened the collar of his polo shirt and checked that his jean shorts hadnt ridden up thanks to the wheelchair. Clothing okay. Next, he breathed into his curved palm and inhaled. Breath okay. Hed just spritzed himself with cologne so he should be okay on any body smells. He needed everything to be perfect. Praying as he maneuvered his chair through the house, he was concentrating so hard that he wobbled as he crossed the threshold. Hed navigated the patio doorway a thousand times and would have been able to right himself but his landscaper had left a potted plant too close to the door on the patio side and he overbalanced to avoid it. For the first time since his lessons in piloting the wheelchair, he tipped too far and fell out. The chair flipped over on top of him, metal ringing as it banged against the concrete patio. Brody! Oh my goodness! Are you okay? Through the blood rushing in his ears, he distantly heard Kates sandals slapping against the concrete. Embarrassment flooded him. Brody did a push-up to get his chest off the ground and pulled his body out from under the chair. Quickly, he turned himself over so he sat upright with his useless legs outstretched in front of him. Kate knelt next to him, hand on his shoulder. His face flamed. Im all right. Just embarrassed. Well, dont be. You couldnt help it. I saw that pot and didnt think anything of it. Well, I shouldve seen it, he muttered. Im used to checking if things block where Im going. He couldnt look in her face to see the pity there. How could he ask her out now? When shed seen him fall on his face like a toddler? He reached out to right the wheelchair and Kate followed his movement, putting out a hand to help him. Ive got it, Brody said, still not looking at her. Humiliation ate a hole in his gut. Heaving himself back into the chaircarefully, so he didnt take another spillhe ignored Kates gentle hand against his lower back. Youve scraped your knee pretty bad, she said. Sure enough, blood seeped from an abrasion on his right knee. War wound. Cant even feel it. He couldnt keep the wan tone from his voice. Ill get some antibiotic ointment on it when I go back in. Kate touched his shoulder, but he still couldnt bear to look at her. Then she knelt in front of him, placed her hands over his on the armrests and he couldnt ignore her. Its okay to need help sometimes, you know. I know. He really did. Hed been accepting help since the accident, but this encounter put a bitter taste in his mouth. Hed wanted Kate to see him as a man, not as an invalid. Someone who could take her out on a date take care of hernot someone who needed constant help. Hey Kate tapped him on one hand. I dont think less of you just because you fell out of your chair. It was like her, with her compassionate heart, to know what he was thinking at this very second. It made the moment intimate, but he couldnt force the words to ask her for a date. Not now, not with embarrassment seeping through every pore. I can pretend it never happened, if you want. Or, you can prove that this was a one-time deal.

He raised one eyebrow skeptically. How? Why dont you come to lunch with me on SundayValentines Day? My mom is making a pot roast and my brother will be there as well. You can roll your wheelchair all through my moms house and if you dont fall out, well She was teasing him. The question waswas Kate asking him for a date? Brody was stunned. But he couldnt say no. All right. GO TO PART NINE

PART NINE Kate flipped over a pillow on her moms couch and patted it into placetwo inches over from where it had previously been. This is going to be a disaster, she muttered to herself. A bad, bad idea. What had she been thinking to invite Brody over to her moms house? She still shared the small house with her mom and younger brother to save money while she was working through school. Would he think less of her because she didnt have her own place? And she still hadnt told him about her past and being a high school dropout. At least lunch promised to be good. Her mom was an excellent cook, and the savory smells of roasted meat and vegetables permeated the entire house. Not that there was much house to it. Kate examined the living room with a critical eye. Shed had Thomas move the coffee table into one of the back bedrooms and one of the two sofas had been shoved back in hopes that Brody would be able to maneuver a bit easier. But was it enough? Her moms knickknacks and all the childhood photos were a bit embarrassing compared to Brodys modern dcor. Quit worrying, dear. Kate looked up from her internal musings to see her mom leaning back from the stove in the next room, wooden spoon held carefully above her palm. Youve moved that same pillow three times now. I dont think your friend is going to mind where it is. No, I know. Kate was just nervous. And her secret wish was that Brody wanted to be more than friends. Impossible. Besides, I think hes here. Sure enough, Kate heard the sound of a car engine fade away. She rushed outside in time to see Brody descending from a minivan via a ramp extended out the rear sliding door. He was really here. Hey. She forced the greeting out of a suddenly-dry mouth. You need any help? Nah, Im okay. Pink tinged his cheekbones as he moved away from the vehicle and punched a button on the remote that made the ramp fold back into the car door. Like my wheels? It took her a second to realize he meant the car and not the wheelchair. She didnt know whether he was joking or being serious. Oh, yes. Very sporty. I like the red. He winked at her and relief that shed read him correctly made her giddy. Actually, Im very impressed that you get around on your own. Thats good for booksignings and things, right? Mmm, and getting to the grocery store, he agreed absently. She followed his gaze past where she stood to the four concrete steps leading up to the house. His smile had disappeared. Youd better hold these, Brody said, indicating the red and pink gift bag and a bouquet of roses in his lap. Kate hadnt noticed them until now. Oh, you dont have to Kate motioned to the steps and then pointed to a paved path that led around the side of the house. If we go around, the kitchen just has one small step. The frown creasing his brow eased and his easy smile returned. Sure. Lead on. What about my present? she asked as she turned and led the way around her moms cottage. Sorry, youll have to wait. Hmph, she groused, but his chuckle told her he knew she was teasing. This is a cute house. Thanks, Kate murmured, not looking back at him. You live here, too?

She sighed. Yeah, and my brother. Its cheaper than having my own place, since Im still at university They approached the door to the kitchen that stood wide open and Kates moms voice floated outside. Dont let her fool you. Shes been taking care of me and Thomas since she was a teenager. Now it was Kates turn to blush. She stood back and ushered Brody toward the open door, wanting to be prepared in case he needed assistance getting up the low step. That doesnt surprise me. It smells delicious, he commented as he easily popped up the front wheels of his chair and then manhandled the larger back wheels to climb the step. All within seconds. Kates assistance hadnt been needed after all. She followed him inside and as her eyes adjusted from the outdoor light, saw him offering her mom the bouquet of roses. These are for you. Thank you for inviting me. Kate jumped in to make introductions. My mom, Angela. This is Brody. Her mom lowered the roses from where shed had her nose buried in them and beamed at their guest. Im glad you could come, young man. Make yourself at home. Brody turned back to Kate, this time his hand outstretched with the gift bag in it. I suppose you want this now. She snatched the gift from him, eyebrows raising as she registered its heaviness. Warmth flowed through her. She hadnt thought he would bring a gift, even though it was Valentines Day. Their relationship, if it could even be termed that, was too new. But she really liked that he had. Ill bring it with me, she said, motioning toward the doorway toward the living room. Lets get out of moms way and let her finish up with the meal. It wont be long. Angela ushered them along with a cheerful wave. Brody followed Kate into the living area, and Kate was immensely relieved to find he had plenty of room for his chair to get around. She was not so excited to find Thomas lounging in the recliner, watching TV. Shed hoped for a little privacy to open her gift, but it was apparently not to be. Whats up? her brother asked in greeting, nodding to Brody. You must be Kates new flame. Kates face started to burn. Hes not my anything. Brody, this is my annoying younger brother Thomas. Brody shook the younger mans hand and then wheeled backward in a half circle so Kate had a view of his face when he said, Were not officially together. Yet. Im hoping to sew that up today. And her face was never going to cool off at this rate. Kate didnt respond to Brodys leading comment, but sat on the sofa and began pulling tissue paper from the top of the gift bag, eager to see what was inside. That for me? Thomas asked. Nope. Didnt figure it was. What is it? Its a ream of paper. She extracted the plain white paper, bound with rubberbands, and placed it on her lap. Its a manuscript, Brody said quietly. Still not quite what my agent wants to seea travel guide for people with disabilities, he said aside to Thomas, but I wanted to share it with you and let you know how much youve inspired me. I think its great that youre plugging your way through night school, and I just kept thinking if you can do something that hard, I should be able to get past my writing demons. Kate blinked back the sudden sting of tears at Brodys compliment. She touched the front page of the manuscriptfilled with only a title and his name below thatand raised her gaze to meet his dark eyes. And I wanted you to know that I trust you with something that no one else has seen yet. I want to pursue this thing between us. His voice vibrated with intensity. It made her insides a little shaky, too. Guys, is it getting a little hot in here? Thomass voice crashed into the intimate moment. Im going to check and see if mom needs help setting the table or something.

Kate hid half her face with one hand as her brother skedaddled and Brody chuckled. I think thats the first time in about three years that hes voluntarily offered to help with a chore-related activity. I like your brother. I do too. Most days. She focused on the manuscript again, unable to hold Brodys concentrated gaze for too long. Thank you for this. I dont think Ive ever received something so special isnt quite enough to describe it. Good. Thats what I was going for. She had to laugh at Brodys faux-smug commentrealizing that it was an attempt to lighten the mood. Kids, the food is ready! came Angelas call from the other room. ### I had a really great time today. Kate knew the line was cheesy even as the words fell from her lips, but there it was. The afternoon had been filled with laughter and learning about the man shed come to care about what more could she ask for? Me too. Luckily, Brody didnt seem to mind. She perched on the front steps, not ready for him to get in his car and drive home, even though shed ushered him out of the house under that excuse. Sometimes a girl just needed a little privacy. Kates seat put them on the same level, and Brody seemed to realize she wasnt ready for their time together to endor he wasnt eitherand wheeled close enough that they were knee-to-knee. He took her hand, sending warmth up the appendage and straight to her heart. Thanks for inviting me. With both my parents gone, sometimes I forget how it feels to be part of a family She squeezed his hand, wanting to offer comfort. Im glad you didnt lose your mom. Shes an incredible lady. Angelas cancer and remission had come up during the meal, but Brody still didnt know that Kate hadnt finished high school. She knew it wasnt fair to keep something like this from him, but a small part of her still worried that he wouldnt like herwouldnt want to date herif he knew. She closed her eyes. She had to be fair to him. Fair to both of them. Brody, theres something you should know before we go any further with this. Our relationship. Just calling what they shared a relationship made her want to clam up and not say anything. How could she ruin this opportunity to be with a man she admired more than any other guy shed met? Tell me. I never finished high school. I have my GED, but I never actually graduated. She couldnt look at him, couldnt bear to see the censure in his eyes. His reply came slow and measured. Because of your mom, right? She nodded, a lump in her throat blocking more words. Im glad you told me, but it doesnt make me think any less of you as a person. He tipped her chin up and one of her threatening tears slipped free. He brushed his thumb across her cheek and caught it. I can tell this is important to you. Do you want to tell me why? Youre intelligent and well-rounded and and famous! And Im a high school dropout. Im afraid that the only reason you want to be with me is because Im available. You see me every week for your pool cleaning, and Brodys thumb brushed forward over her cheek and pressed against her lips, stopping the flow of her words.

Three years ago, I mightve agreed with you. His eyes showed how serious he was taking this. But Im not the same person I used to be. Now I know youre selling yourself short, Kate. She sniffled. You havent mentioned your compassionate heart. A lot of kids wouldnt have done what you did to support your mom and keep your family together. Thats a lot more important than a high school diploma in my book. She shook her head, dislodging his thumb from her lips. But This time he leaned forward and captured her lips with his, his hand sliding behind her jaw so that his fingers tangled in her hair. Involuntarily, Kates eyes closed against the tender onslaught of his kiss. She was lost in the sensations he evoked, rooted only by the anchor of his palm against her jaw. When he eased back and her eyes fluttered open, it took Kate a moment to focus on his face, his tender smile. Her stomach swooped at the light she saw in his eyes. Kate, I think Im falling in love with you. Her heart stuttered. Shed been falling for Brody for a long time, but never hoped that her feelings would be reciprocated. Was God answering her unasked prayer? I care about your past because its made you who you are, but I dont think youre ruled by it, Kate. Youre changing your future by going to night school, and youve changed your moms futureyour whole familys futureby your selfless actions. Brody clasped both her hands between his. What I want to know is if you can see a place for me for us togetherin that future. Because I can. He paused. Unless unless my disability is too much Kate wiggled her fingers in Brodys hands, not surprised that she was shaking. He started to release her, but she laced their fingers together instead. A line that had formed between his eyebrows eased. You said my past doesnt define me. Your legs, or lack thereof, dont define you either. Ive been fighting my feelings for you for months, thinking there was no way youd want someone like me This time Kate leaned forward and kissed Brody, just a delicate brush of her lips against his. I definitely want to go out with you again. When? Is tomorrow too early? THE END

PART TEN She wasnt coming. The sun neared the place where water and horizon met, and Kate still hadnt shown up to the beach party. Brody had been so proud of himself that his new wheelchair had handled the sand, if not gracefully, then at least not painfully. Earlier hed dipped his toes in the Gulf. He knew hed have to rub down his chair later and remove all traces of saltwater, but it had been worth it. But his joy and anticipation had waned as time passed and Kate still hadnt arrived. Had she decided someone with a handicap like his wasnt worth her time? Some of the guys had started a bonfire and most of the group had congregated there, taking turns roasting marshmallows and chatting and generally having a good time. But Brody sat slightly apart, eyes traveling over and over again to the parking area, hope dimming with each minute that ticked by. Maybe he should leave. He certainly wasnt bringing any life to this get-together. Then suddenly a happy bark announced a newcomer, and his heart took flight And Kates bobbing ponytail followed her golden dog down to the sand. Shed come. Late, but she was still here and thats all that mattered. Brody wheeled his chair toward her, arms straining with the effort of moving through the soft sand. Her dog barked again and ran right up to him. He accepted the doggie lick of his hand and rubbed along the animals back as he waited for Kates approach. She wasnt smiling. Hey, he greeted, stomach swooping low. Hi. The setting sun turned her blond hair russet and shadowed her eyes. She wore a simple one-piece and a pair of board shorts. The party is right back there, Brody said, indicating the bonfire over his shoulder. Cmon. Ill introduce you to everyone. Brody, can we talk? Oh no. The dreaded can we talk. Heart plummeting, he nodded anyway. If you want to walk for a bit, its easier for me closer to the water. His wheels had more traction on the hard-packed, wet sand instead of the soft, dry sand closer to the parking area. Kate followed him as he pushed his chair through the sand and then as he turned parallel to the water she moved into place next to him, flip-flops dangling from one hand. I almost didnt come tonight, she said, voice soft. Im glad you did. The rapidly sinking sun didnt give him much visibility, but he thought she frowned. This is really hard to say. That didnt sound good. Brodys heart sat like a rock in the pit of his stomach. Brody, theres still a lot about me you dont know. And I just dont think that this thing between us She stopped for a moment and that was okay because his pulse pounded in his ears and he could barely hear her. She didnt want to be with him. I dont think we should see each other again. Socially. Brody searched his memory for something from their last encounter that had gone wrong. Anything. Anything to explain what was happeningwhy Kate felt they shouldnt be together. He came up empty. Maybe hed exposed his feelings too early. He knew hed told Kate how much he liked her. She hadnt seemed uncomfortable at the time, but She could have been humoring him. She probably didnt want to be with a disabled man.

Brody swallowed hard, but it did nothing to dislodge the boulder blocking his throat. If thatsif thats what you want. It wasnt what he wanted, but how could he argue with her if her mind was made up? I think its for the best. Im sorry. Kate whistled for her dog that had run ahead of them and Brody realized she meant to leave. Just as well, hed rather hide his humiliation in the darkness, alone. Im going to he motioned forward, to the beach extended before him, keep going. Okay. Ill Ill see you Wednesday? Sure. Unless he cancelled his pool maintenance plan. It couldnt be too hard to do on his own, could it? Then he wouldnt have to face Kate again. Are you going to be okay? Kate sounded genuinely concerned. She was a kind person at heart, even though she didnt want to date him. Yeah. Sure. Okay, well good night. Goodbye. She turned away, her dog trotting after her with lolling tongue, and Brody pushed his chair forward again in case she looked back. He didnt want her to see how badly he hurt. When a glance behind him verified shed disappeared from the beach, he stopped his chair and simply sat in the twilight darkness, listening to the waves pound against the sand. After a while, his heard slowed to match the waves rhythm. He felt empty inside. A lot like hed felt when he realized he wouldnt walk again after the accident. Hed believed that Kate would be able to accept him as he was disability and all. Hed seen compassion in her, but maybe shed realized exactly how hard it would be to be in a relationship with someone like him. He didnt know. After crying out to God for a long timelong enough that it had grown fully dark around himhe gained a measure of peace, though he still felt an empty place inside his heart. Kates place. He turned his chair around, noting that the tide had started to come in and began the trek back to his handicap-accessible minivan. He made it to the asphalt parking lot and was approaching his vehicle when a figure stepped out of the shadows near his van. Kate. Where have you been? Do you know how long its been since we parted? Do you need help? The shrill tone in her rapid-fire questions wasnt one hed heard before. His face flamed. He hoped she couldnt see it in the dim illumination from the parking lot lamps. Im fine. You didnt need to stay. I can take care of myself. I know you can, but your friends all left! What if youd been hurt or something? He was embarrassed that she felt the need to watch out for him. If hed been a normal guy, she never would have stayed. I have a cell phone, he said curtly. Her face pinched and her expression made him realize that shed been asking questions as if she cared what happened to him. Wait a minute. Just wait a minute. Brody extended one hand, palm outward as his mind raced, his hope was resurrected. You care about me, he stated. Kates cheeked pinked. He could see it even in the dusky half-light. Of course I do. Just not enough to date me.

Her eyes shifted away, a telltale sign that she wasnt being completely honest with him. Brody took a shaky breath and took a wild guess that his disability wasnt as big a problem that he had thought. You do want to date me. Brody, please Please, what? Please dont make this more difficult? Or please make me confront the truth? He waited for a long moment, and when she didnt deny that she wanted a relationship he took action. Brody set the brake on his wheelchair and reached out for her hand. She gave it to him, but must not have been expecting his next move, because when he gave a sharp tug on her arm, she tumbled right into his lap. Just like hed planned. Thank goodness the chair hadnt toppled. Before she could get up, before she could protest, Brody took her mouth in a passionate kiss. He tried to show her everything in his heartthat he wanted her in his life, that he didnt want to take no for an answer, that he was falling in love with her. And Kate kissed him back. Brody pulled away, still holding her, breathing hard. He pressed his cheek to her ear, felt her trembling. How could she deny that this thing between them was strong? Too strong to just walk away Dont be afraid, he whispered, and the fine hairs at her temple tickled his lips. I think God brought you into my life for more than just cleaning my pool. I dont want to get my heart broken, she returned, voice low and breath warming his neck, when you come to your senses and realize that Im not good enough for you. Were too were too different. His heartthe same one hed thought crushed into a thousand pieces just minutes agopulsed with life. If she was worried about her heart getting broken it meant her heart was involved right? He took a chance the old Brody never would have, made himself vulnerable. Im falling in love with you. Kate froze. Holding her close like he was, Brody could feel that she even stopped breathing for a moment. You, Kate, he went on. Pool cleaning girl. Night school attendee. Silly dog owner. Woman who has captured my heart. She groaned softly. Brody how can I say no when you say things like that? He chuckled, heart light. Maybe she was finished arguing with him. But Or maybe not. Brody stopped her words with another tender kiss. He pulled away, breathless. Why dont we let God worry about all those what ifs and concentrate on building a relationship? he asked when he could finally speak again. She raised luminous eyes to him and Brody let her look into his heart, hoping his feelings for her, his commitment were shining right through. Yes, she whispered. I want to be with you. Youre not going to change your mind again? he teased, hugging her waist. Nope. Youve convinced me. No more doubts. Good. Wanna get a cup of coffee? Now? Sure, why not? Tonight and tomorrow and the day after THE END

THE BLUESTOCKING AND THE BLUEBLOOD By LACY WILLIAMS

Chapter 1 This certainly wasnt the trip Id planned on. Engine problems delayed my flight into Manchester. On top of that, the rental company gave away my luxury car and I was left with something that looked like a toy. Worst of all, this honeymoon had turned into a trip for one. At least the cottage was everything Id imagined. I stood for a moment in the waning light, admiring what I could see of it. White stucco walls seemed to almost glimmer in the fading light. Roses climbed the trellis and onto the slanted, thatched roof. Their sweet fragrance reached me, for a moment overpowering the scents of exhaust and travel grime that clung to me. Sighing, I hefted my bookbag full of romance novels and hooked it over my shoulder. Id been planning this trip for six months. I should be happy. I was happy. So why did this ugly feeling of disappointment rising in my throat make me want to cry? Because I had dreamed it differently? Who needed a man to carry the luggage, anyway? It took some effort, but I wrested my suitcase from the miniature trunk wasnt it called something else here in the U.K.? and trudged up the walk. As I juggled my luggage and tried to find the key that had disappeared into the abyss of my backpack, my cell phone began playing the Oklahoma State University fight song. Not now, I mumbled. For a nanosecond I considered who it could be. Id called Aunt Donna from the airport earlier and promised to call again tomorrow. Considering that my best friend had run off with my now ex-fianc a week before the wedding, hearing from either of them was out of the question. That left only one person. Erik. I ignored the ringing phone and kept digging. I knew what Erik wanted, and it wasnt something I could give, not right now. I could still feel his hug as he had dropped me off at the airport in Oklahoma City. Find a way to forgive them, hed whispered against my temple. Dont let your hurt turn into bitterness. I shook my head to dispel the memory and the pinprick of guilt that it brought with it. I didnt want to think about the people or the God whod betrayed me. Finally, my fingers closed around the key. Ahaing with triumph, I stuffed it into the lock. The inside of my dream cottage was as beautiful as the outside. Warm wood floors showed off a recent buff job. An oversized sofa and chair created a perfect reading corner in front of the fireplace, while the other half of the room made up a kitchenette and small dining area. Everything about it spelled warmth and promised relaxation. It was everything Id dreamed of. Before Jared shattered my heart. Too keyed up to sleep yet, I dumped my stuff on the king-sized bed just around the corner from the fireplace and patted myself on the back when I didnt tear up thinking about being in it alone tonight. A quick apple-snack in the stocked kitchenette was all I needed before I headed out the back door. A bark, almost a yelp, was the only sound in the twilight stillness and made me pause on the step. It had sounded close. Here, boy. I dont know what made me hesitate, but I felt a peculiar reluctance to step out into the gathering darkness. The familiar, heady scent of roses swirled around me. Decaying leaves rustled in a random dance, provoked by the light breeze that tickled my bare arms. I could barely see the outline of the gate that led to the garden. When the yelp came again, I imagined the poor dog caught in a fence or lying in the street, hurt. That wouldnt do. Not when I could do something about it. Ignoring the peculiar quivering in my stomach that warned me to go back inside, I stepped from the stoop and pushed through the garden gate.

As soon as I moved through it, dizziness engulfed me. A swarm of bees thrummed inside my head and my limbs felt as if an anvil weighted each appendage down. My heart fluttered erratically against my ribcage. Blackness took over the edge of my vision and then I was falling, falling ### The sound of unfamiliar voices roused me. For a moment, I couldnt place where I was. My head throbbed, making it doubly hard to understand the thick British accents. I strained my ears anyway. Weve naught left to trade, miss. There has to be something. A clanging noise, like heavy metal pots being thrown together, almost made me cry out. Where is the little jar we hid back here? Gone. Its all gone. Theres naught but the locket Miss Matilda kept and she wont give it up. In my sleep-dulled state, I couldnt understand their conversation. Who were the two women? How did they know my name? And why did I taste dirt? I cracked open my eyes to dappled sunlight shining directly in them. Quickly, I shut them again. But not before Id seen the rose garden that surrounded me. With a groan, I remembered coming outside in the near-dark last night. I must have fainted or something, and spent the night out here. And I had been planning to get full enjoyment out of that kingsized bed, too. A shiver crawled up my spine, reminding me that I hadnt been dressed for a night out in the elements. My jeans and t-shirt werent much insulation against the cold creeping from the ground into my bones. Maybe thats why my entire body ached. Or maybe I was just getting older and needed a mattress. When I tried to sit up, I found my legs caught in a net. I looked down to find that I wasnt wearing jeans after all, but some long nightgown that I didnt remember putting on last night. What the I struggled with the gown that seemed to be longer than I was tall and finally managed to get to my feet. Too bad my movements and noise had attracted notice. Two women, one who looked to be about my age and the other only in her teens, appeared on the cottages back stoop and gaped at me over the hedge of roses. What are you doing in my rental? Thankfully my mouth was functioning better than the rest of me. I cleared my throat, embarrassed. I mean, who are you? And what are you doing in my rental? There. Hopefully the firmness in my voice would scare them off before I had to call the cops. Did they even have 911 in the United Kingdom? The older woman, whose features seemed vaguely familiar to me, glared at me and turned to go back inside. Whoa. That was some major fury steaming from her eyes. Stepping down to my level, the younger woman approached me, concern wrinkling her brow. Miss Matilda, what are you doing outside at this hour? And without a wrap? Why, youll catch your death of cold. She reached for me, as if to pull me inside with her. I yanked my arm out of her reach. How do you know my name? Surprise flickered over her face for a moment, but it quickly disappeared and her brown eyes darkened. With sadness? Why dont ya go back to bed, miss? Its early yet. She reached for me again. Distracted by a remembrance of the big bed Id left behind last night, I wasnt as fast to pull away this time. She was stronger than her thin frame suggested, easily propelling me toward the cottage. I dug in my heels. Who are you? I asked again, as she pushed me through the door. Instant surprise overtook me, and I froze. The interior of the cottage had morphed from the warm ambiance I remembered to something more like a living history museum. Where had all the sparkling appliances gone?

A rough wooden table and chairs almost touched the back of a sofa, but not the one Id seen last night. This one was covered in an awful striped pattern and looked old-fashioned and uncomfortable. Somehow, a wall had been erected to block off the kitchenette. The furious woman sat at the table with papers strewn over almost the entire surface. She chewed her lip, but when I came in the door her face blanked, going completely neutral. Again, I was struck by a feeling that I knew her from somewhere. I couldnt place her dirty-blond hair or blue eyes, but maybe Id seen her last night in my hurry to get away from the bustling airport and to my country cottage. That two strangers were invading right now. Who are you? The question was beginning to feel redundant. The younger girl squeezed my arm before letting go and moving to stir the fire that danced merrily in the fireplace. Miss Matilda, Ive been serving your family for years now. Dont you remember, I styled your hair for the Rochdale Ball, where you met She broke off and looked chagrined, before quickly turning back to the fire. Serving my family? The closest thing to a servant Aunt Donna and I had been able to afford was Eddie, who mowed our yard every other week during the summer. This wisp of a girl definitely didnt look like Eddie. I glanced around the room again, a ball of panic rising in my throat. What happened in here? Where did all the nice things go? There was no way these two women were strong enough to steal the appliances and furniture. Did they have help? I glanced around, but the three of us seemed to be the only ones here. Now the woman at the table sighed. She kept her eyes on the papers in front of her. I dare say you are aware that weve been trading the candlesticks and china for some time now. What? Who cared about plates and candles? Im talking about the dishwasher, the couch, all the appliances. Where did you put them? She looked up, her eyes flashing. Matilda, you know very well that we have not had a dish washer in ages. Weve had no servants save Ruth for more than three years. I began to feel lightheaded. Was I speaking a foreign language or something? This time, I spoke slowly so she would be able to understand. I want to know where the dishwasher, I pointed to the place it stood last night, stove, I wasnt sure you could call the black wrought iron thing I pointed at a stove but I went with it, and refrigerator are. You can keep the microwave for all I care. She shook her head, her lips compressing until they were white, and began to pore over the papers again. Her nonchalance bothered me more than I cared to admit. She was sitting in my cottage, after all! And acting like she owned the place. Is this a scam? My voice rose. I couldnt help it. I watched her for signs discomfort while she pretended to ignore me. Because I dont have any money. Im a veterinary student. Well, I was before The woman stood up. For the first time, I noticed how drawn and pale her face was. Her shoulders were slightly hunched, as if she bore the weight of the world on them. You seem a bit addled this morning. Perhaps you should rest for a bit. In fact, I insist upon it. I dont want to rest. I want to know whats going on! Ruth, who'd been silently picking up the worn rag rugs from the floor, looked up from her stooped position. Forgive me, miss, but you shouldnt talk to your sister that way. You two have only each other left and you shouldnt bicker. Sister?

Chapter 2 Feeling suddenly lightheaded, I sank into one of the chairs at the little wooden table. Can I have a cup of coffee? I asked weakly. Yes. Java was just what I needed to wake up from this weird dream and figure out what alternate universe I'd landed in. We havent had tea in a week, and she wants coffee. I heard the words that my sister sister! spoke to Ruth, but they didnt really register. My mind spun as I tried to take in the changed cottage, the fact that I'd slept outside, but most of all, the fact that I had a sister. A sister. Id been alone in the world except for my Aunt Donna since my tenth birthday, when my parents died. I didnt have any siblings. I was an orphan. The familiar swirl of loneliness threatened to bring tears to my eyes. I stuffed them back down to the deepest nether-regions of my mind. What I really needed to do was find my luggage, get in the little rental car, and drive back to the airport and normalcy. I think Ill go I stood and moved toward the bedroom. Behind me, I heard a soft mutter. Mayhap she is confounded because she hasnt eaten in two days. At least she is speaking to you again, even if it is in anger. A pause. I cannot think what would keep our uncle from sending for us. Ive written two letters to him, the most recent sent a fortnight ago. If he does not come for us soon, we will be forced into the almshouse. I closed the door and the rest of their conversation was lost to me. The bedroom had changed overnight, too. Instead of the king bed with its mounds of pillows, there was a double. With no pillows. My suitcase and bookbag were nowhere to be seen. Spying a trunk in the corner of the room, I rifled through it, hoping to find some normal clothes to wear. Instead, I found only more gowns like the one I wore, and ribbons. Lots of ribbons, of all different colors and patterns. At the bottom of the trunk I found a stack of letters bound with a thin cord. They were like no letters I'd ever seen before. Written on thick yellow paper in a calligraphy-style print. I flipped one of them over and admired the waxy seal that someone had stamped into it. Without thinking of the consequences, I opened the letter and read the salutation. It was addressed to Dearest Minerva. If the women in the other room thought I was Matilda, and this letter was written to Minerva My pulse pattered in my ears. I sat down on quivery legs. It couldnt be. I inhaled deeply, my airways burning. God, this cant be happening. The prayer slipped out before I remembered that I wasnt on speaking terms with Him. Somehow, someway I'd arrived last night at a cottage in England in the twenty-first century. Today, I'd awakened in the nineteenth! ### Moments later, I strode away from the cottage, determined to find a way out of this mess. Id banged my knee and ripped the hem of the dress I wore while climbing through the bedroom window. My head still pounded, but I couldnt tell if it was from my fainting spell last night or the conundrum that I now found myself in. It could be a coincidence. The only reason I remembered the names Matilda and Minerva was because my aunt had talked about them once, a long time ago, when shed been on a genealogy kick. They were sisters. And sure, my family history was one reason I'd decided to take the honeymoontrip-turned-trip-for-one to this little berg in the United Kingdom.

But what were the chances they were the only sisters with those names? I mean, it couldnt be that I'd traveled back in time. Right? My rental car wasn't where I'd left it last night. There weren't even any tire tracks. And the road wasn't paved. I rubbed my fists over my eyes. Nope, the grassy lane with two ruts of smashed-down grass had definitely been paved yesterday afternoon when I'd driven in. Another building stood behind the place where I remembered parking my car, this one smaller than the cottage but its roof was the same thatched material as the cottage. I really didnt have time to go exploring if I was going to figure out a way to get out of this mess, but my stubborn feet carried me in that direction anyway. The heavy wooden door let loose a long creak when I pulled it open. Although the inside was dim, dust motes glittered in slanted rays that shone through a grungy window. Sunlight from behind me illuminated the packed dirt floor and feel like a beam from heaven on a dark, familiar shape. An anvil. Breath caught in my throat as I stepped to the workbench and ran my fingers over the tools lying in careful rows. The hammers and tongs were primitive, so different from what I usually worked with. And so dusty. I wiped my hands on my skirt to get rid of the offending grime. In the center of the room stood the forge. It looked like one I'd admired at a museum, made out of stones and open on the top. A pile of coal in the corner of the room just begged to be used. What could it hurt to pound a couple of shapes? Maybe it would release some of my pent-up frustration. I found the tinder box and flint in a drawer, and like the good little Girl Scout I'd been until the seventh grade, soon had the coals glowing with life. It quickly started getting stuffy in the small enclosed space and I remembered why Aunt Donna said she preferred a closed forge it kept the smoke contained. The realization that I could easily get carbon monoxide poisoning sent me rushing to the double doors that took up nearly the whole wall opposite the door I'd come in. Grunting, I slid the two-by-four that latched them closed out of the way and gave a hefty push. Nothing happened. The smoke started making my eyes water. I put my shoulder into it. Still no movement. A lung-rattling cough surprised me and scratched my throat. I couldnt see any other options and I sure wasnt going to give up. So I backed up and ran at the door. I managed to trip on my skirt and fall headlong into it. It finally gave, which didnt help me catch my balance, and I tumbled through and landed in a heap on the grass. Fresh air whooshed through my nostrils and I drew greedy breaths. Then I looked up. I barely registered the light pants and dark jacket before I was captured by the handsomest pair of sideburns Id ever seen.

Chapter 3 Okay, the russet sideburns bracketed a pair of ice-blue eyes that squinted just a bit in the harsh sunlight. And a strong, straight nose. But most of all, it was the angular jaw with just a hint of dark stubble that captivated my attention. Wow. I must've been staring because one well-shaped brow lifted and the crows feet around this strangers eyes gained just a bit more definition. H-hello, I managed to stammer, pushing the words past the breath stuck in my throat. I tried to stand, thinking maybe that would give me some perspective. Somehow my feet were wrapped in the skirt again and I couldnt get them to obey me. A warm hand under my elbow contrasted with the cool outdoor air and I couldnt help noticing the strength that easily assisted me to my feet. At least, my pulse noticed because it hummed in my ears. Th-thank you. Get ahold of yourself, girl. The man didnt seem to notice my discomfort. He nodded, unsmiling, and glanced back at the smithys building. His fine clothing, obviously cut and tailored to enhance his muscular build, made me intensely conscious of the faded fabric that made up the dress I wore. Who was he? What was he doing here? Part of me wanted to know if hed felt the same spark of connection when he touched me. The other part, the part that remembered the look on Jareds face when he told me he wasnt in love with me anymore, reminded me not-so-gently of everything Id lost. The warmth I'd felt just seconds ago faded away like the smoke that dissipated above the smithy. I have a problem that demands the services of a farrier. Ignoring the tremble that went through me at the deep timbre of his voice, my mind raced on to the covering of dust covering everything inside the building. No one had worked there in some time. IIm not sure where he is. I tried to sound firm but my voice came out all breathy. I cleared my throat. Do you know when he will return? My gelding has thrown a shoe and I have an errand that must be attended to today. A glance behind him revealed a well-muscled bay with a white blaze and stockings grazing in the sweet-smelling grass. I couldn't help but admire it. What a beautiful animal. He waved toward the building. The forge has been fired. I dare say the blacksmith wont be gone long. I swallowed. There was no real reason to keep stalling. I should tell him I had started the forge. But What if I could shoe the horse and make some cash? The conversation Id overhead earlier told me that my so-called sister worried about food. If we had some money, it would get me a few more days in the cottage to figure out how to get home. My stomach rumbled as if in agreement. Now if I could just convince the handsome well, I didnt know his name. You know, I believe the blacksmith would be happy to shoe your horse, Mr. His broad shoulders straightened and his blue eyes flickered to me, then away again. Forgive me. I am Mr. Howarth. Matilda I struggled for the correct surname, finally recalling the one that graced the notes from the trunk. Matilda Briggs. I stuck out my hand for him to shake. Instead, he bowed low over it. Oh. I was probably supposed to curtsy or something. Fear of tripping on my skirt again held me still. I smiled, hoping that would do. He frowned, avoiding my eyes. Was he purposely being stuffy? Irked, I strove for a professional voice. If you would be so kind as to leave your horse, Ill be sure to tell him-- uh, the farrier, as soon as he comes back.

Mr. Howarths frown deepened. What bothered him so much? I would prefer to stay. Intuitively, I knew that if Mr. Howarth knew I would be shoeing his horse, he wouldnt agree. I needed to get rid of him, and fast. He, uh likes to work without interruption. He raised a skeptical brow. He's very solitary, you know. He doesnt like anyone to watch him work. My neck burned at the untruth that sprang so easily from my lips. Mr. Howarth looked as if he would make another comment, but to my surprise he nodded and turned to leave. I stood for a moment, watching his slight swagger as he strode away. With a sigh, I gave a gentle tug on the reins of his horse. The docile animal followed me to the building and stood while I tied him off to a post that seemed to have been built for that purpose. I found a heavy leather apron beneath the table that held most of the smithy's implements and got lost for a moment imagining who might've used it before me. As I pulled it on, its scent pulled me back home to the last horse Id shod. The day before I left for university, an old friend called with a problem horse that Id dealt with a few times successfully. Jared had shown up as I finished the horse. Wed dated casually a few times during high school, and I could still remember the shiver of delight that snaked through me as hed stood watching in the doorway with his arms crossed. Arent you glad you wont have to do this for a living any more? I shrugged, not sure why his words bothered me. Pretended they didnt. I like working with my aunt. Yeah, but youll make a killing as a vet. Think of all those people with little lapdogs who need flea medication. I swallowed the urge to tell him that I planned to specialize in equine surgery. I desperately wanted a special internship they only offered to one student a year, and had mapped out the next three years of my life in order to get it. Jared joined me as I loaded the tools into the special chest my aunt used to carry them from job to job. He tossed a small pick into the air and caught it in a fluid motion. Youre so different from the girls I usually date. I couldnt read him well enough to know if he meant that as a compliment or a concern. So I didnt say anything. He brushed a hand against my shoulder, then his fingers came up to caress my cheek. I just think youll be so much happier when you get to be a real woman, not your aunts apprentice. I shook my head to dispel the memories, tightening my hold on the hammer. Who was Jared to tell me what I should want out of life anyway? Id thought he understood me, wanted my dreams to come true. Obviously, Id been wrong. Now, I relished the familiar actions of measuring and filing the gelding's hoof. I was surprised at how clean and well-maintained it was. It appeared Mr. Howarth did an exceptional job at caring for this horse. The dip and pound of the hammer as I adjusted the horseshoe came back to me as if I hadnt spent the last four years in a classroom instead of the forge. Although my muscles began to ache more quickly than when Id worked with Aunt Donna every day. Midway through the shoe, my hair fell down around my shoulders. I paused to tie it up with a leather thong found in one of the drawers. Fine wisps of hair escaped my makeshift ponytail; I shrugged and reminded myself that I wasnt trying to look pretty for anyone. I swung the hammer again. The clang of metal against anvil was a song from my childhood and I found myself humming along. Each time I moved through the arc of the hammer's swing, reused muscles I hadnt thought of in years, I took back a little bit of myself. I liked smithing. And if I couldnt find a way to get home, I could be happy making a living this way. The realization didnt stun me. It felt right. Working with horses was my true first love, and it felt good to return to it.

I finished the shoe and was examining the other three hooves to make sure none needed maintenance when a shriek from the doorway made me whirl. My skirt billowed around me. I caught sight of Minervas angry countenance at the same time as the horse whinnied and reared. From the corner of my eye I watched the rope I had tied it off with snap. I covered my head with my arm and ducked so I would present the smallest target. Even though I braced for an impact, it surprised me when it came from behind me and sent me sprawling to my knees, out of harms way. Whoa, boy. I looked up to see Mr. Howarth grasp the geldings bridle and attempt to calm his horse. Minerva rushed to my side and grabbed my arm. What do you think youre doing? she hissed. I struggled to my feet, brushing myself off. Not good. I needed to get rid of Minerva before she ruined everything. Id like to know the same thing. Mr. Howarths back remained to us as he rubbed the gelding's shoulder. The geldings head bobbed and I could see the whites of his eyes from where I stood. Mr. Howarths voice was cool. Where is the farrier? Really, really not good. Minerva glanced at Mr. Howarth in confusion and back at me. What on earth were you doing? Why are you wearing that apron? Mr. Howarths eyes met mine from over his shoulder, shooting daggers. That is a most interesting question. I cannot wait to hear the answer myself. Quickly, I shirked the apron, tossing it to the side. Well, here goes nothing. I was finishing up. Minerva frowned. Finishing what? Shoeing the horse, I muttered. Minervas gasp echoed loud in the sudden stillness. Before she could say anything else, approaching hoofbeats announced the presence of another. Halloo. A silhouette of a man blocked the sunlight streaming through the doorway. He stepped forward and flashed a broad smile at myself and Minerva. A shock of carrot-red hair fell into his dancing hazel eyes. There you are, Andrew. Mr. Howarth did not respond. Hed already moved to the geldings foot and bent to examine it. Pride puffed out my chest. I see youve made some new acquaintances. The shorter, stockier man bowed in the direction of where Minerva and I stood. She had the grace to curtsy but I was too focused on Mr. Howarths reaction to do anything. Wont you introduce us? Mr. Howarth only grunted, now touching the new shoe. The other man stepped inside and approached us. Forgive my cousins manners. He is a bit obsessive about his horses. Mr. McCullough, at your service. Upon closer inspection, the family resemblance was visible. Mr. McCullough had the same nose and facial structure as Mr. Howarth. Though he certainly seemed to smile more. Minerva seemed embarrassed or reserved, I couldnt tell which. She didnt offer an introduction, so I did the honors. Mr. McCullough bowed a second time, and when he straightened, his eyes lingered on Minerva, who had gone an interesting shade of pink and now avoided his gaze. You did this? Mr. Howarths stern tone startled me and I turned back to where he stood, in front of the gelding. He wasnt smiling. Hadnt he looked at the shoe? Didnt he see the craftsmanship? I couldnt help the raise of my chin. Yes. He scratched his head. He lifted the hoof again, squatting this time. What was he looking for? The shoe was perfect. Your horse isnt the first Ive shod, you know. Matilda! Minerva gripped my arm so hard that I almost cried out. Shes not she didnt She passed her hands over her face. Our father Both men exchanged a glance.

You arent related to Mr. Briggs, of Burnley, by chance? Mr. McCullough asked. He speaks often of his handsome nieces, but I dont believe his descriptions do you justice. Minervas color was slowly coming back. She cleared her throat. Yes, actually. Were expecting a coach from him any day. Im afraid youll be waiting for quite some time. Your uncle is out of the country. Minerva gasped at hearing Mr. Howarths cold words. The sound was so soft I dont know that either of the men could have heard her. Do you know when he is expected to return? I asked, when it seemed that Minerva couldnt find her voice. No, Miss Briggs. Mr. McCullough looked apologetic. I believe he had some urgent business to attend to. Minervas hand on my arm shook. A surge of protectiveness for this ancestor made me step in front of her. If you would be so kind as to pay for the service rendered, Mr. Howarth. Then you may be on your way to your business appointment. He knew that my words were meant as a dismissal. I could see it in the sharpening of his gaze, the tightening of his mouth. Without a word, he tucked a coin into my hand. I resisted the urge to look down at it. I wouldnt know its value anyway, so I could only pray that he hadnt cheated me. His glittering eyes held mine for a second too long before he turned to his cousin. Come, Tristan. I turned back to Minerva, who still trembled. At least we can eat today. She didnt look at the coin I extended to her, instead staring off into space. I cannot believe That I shod a horse? Look, Minnie, Im not who you think I am. She didnt move. They are still outside. I can hear the horses stamping. It grew silent and I could hear the mens voices. They were muffled and I couldnt make out the words, but one voice raised louder than the other. A moment later, they both reentered. Mr. Howarth stood with rigid posture, his jaw clenched. Mr. McCullough wore a strained smile, but when he spoke he sounded almost jovial. My cousin agrees that we cannot leave the dear nieces of our family friend in these dire straights. We must insist you accompany us to Howarth Park until your uncle returns.

Chapter 4 Travel in the nineteenth century was slow and tedious. Coaches werent really meant for comfort. Most of all, road was a four-letter word. Id given up on sleep after the umpteenth time that the jostling of the coach knocked my head into its wall. Id gone to the floor twice, each time struggling back to my seat with help from Ruth, who sat next to me. Minerva, leaning against the opposite corner of the coach, was either a heavy sleeper or pretending not to notice my discomfort. I stared out the window, feeling as if wed been traveling for days, though I knew it to be only hours. None of my pleading could convince Minerva to stay at the cottage, once the men made up their minds. Actually, she seemed relieved. Frantically, I tried everything I could think of to get back home, but no matter how many times I stepped through the garden gate, nothing happened. Finally, Id been forced to give up when Ruth came for me and escorted me to the waiting coach. The men rode horseback in front, and I desperately wished for the chance to join them, instead of enduring this torture inside. Now Ruth looked at me strangely, her eyebrows drawn together in concern. Miss Matilda, are you ill? she whispered. No. You seem different. I sighed. What could it hurt to tell her? Youll probably think Im crazy, but Im not the Matilda you think I am. Her eyes widened as I told my story. At the end, I sat back and waited for her to say something. And waited. I dont know how to believe you, miss. She glanced across to Minerva, as if her hushed voice might waken the other woman. Ive never heard anything of the like before. Its the truth. Miss Matilda Mattie. Miss Mattie, are you sure this isnt about the scandals? A way to escape them? All of a sudden it became hard to breathe. What scandals? Her eyes scanned my face. Looking for what? Her browns were drawn down in concern. Perhaps it is not my place to say, miss. Please, Ruth. I think I need to know. When she spoke, her face reflected just how earnest she was. You were engaged to be married. Mr. ah, the man was found with Her words slowed and once again she glanced across to where Minerva slept. I didnt think my sister had so much as twitched but perhaps Ruth was afraid of reprisal for speaking so freely if she woke up. She continued in almost a whisper. He was found with another woman. In a compromising situation. I covered my face with my hands to hide the sudden moisture in my eyes. She touched my shoulder gently. I couldnt find the breath to speak. Something thudded in my ears, blocking out all other sounds. I realized it was my heart. I-Im okay, I lied, forcing my words through stiff lips. I placed my hands in my lap, wound my fingers together. I didnt look at her, afraid shed know that I wasnt telling the truth. I just need to think through this. I turned my face to the carriage window and pretended to watch the passing scenery, though I couldnt see anything through the tears that blurred my vision. Slowly, I regained control of my rioting emotions. With each trembling breath I took, I fought against the voices that whispered youre not good enough and no one will ever love you.

God, why? I didnt understand why a loving God would let this happen to me. Sure, I hadnt expected to be over Jared so soon, but hearing Ruths tale and knowing that I well, really, my ancestor had been betrayed as well fanned my own pain into a burning that sat in the pit of my stomach. A long time passed before I felt that I could speak again. When I chanced to look, Ruth watched me with tears in her eyes. Im so sorry, miss. You said scandals, plural. She bit her bottom lip, clearly distressed. You should talk to your sister. I am just a maid, after all. I took her hand in mine and squeezed it. Something inside tells me that you are more a part of this family than you know. Please tell me. Her eyes fell to our clasped hands. After the first scandal your father changed. He became angry and withdrawn. It is rumored that he gambled away tliving your uncle gave him. And that his creditors caused his death. I didnt know how to process this additional hurt. I would have loved to know a father figure, having only Aunt Donna since my tenth birthday. Obviously Minerva still mourned both situations, too. Before I could formulate something else to say, the coach slowed and a look out the window confirmed that we were arriving at a gorgeous mansion of white stone. Minerva roused with a start. I gripped Ruths forearm. I need you to help me, I whispered, knowing our time was running out. She hesitated. Minerva will be upset if I make any more mistakes, wont she? She nodded, biting her lip again. Then I need you to tell me how to act, what to do. Ill never make it long enough to find a way back home if you dont. She agreed in a muted voice. Our discussion was over. Id never been so happy to arrive at a destination, not even at my arrival in Manchester after all the flight delays. The coach door opened and Mr. McCullough was there to hand us down. I stood and stretched, admiring the sun setting in a beautiful haze while he handed out Minerva and then Ruth. Somehow Ruth managed to miss the step and fall into Tristan's chest. He steadied her, looking directly into her face for the briefest of moments, before setting her on her feet. She cleared her throat nervously and attempted to straighten her dress. Poor girl. I knew just how she felt. I had a tendency to be clumsy at the most inopportune times. As the group moved away, I pulled myself from the sunset and turned to take a full view of Howarth Park. The mansions many windows reflected the last light of the day. Two wings, one on each side, flowed from the main part of the house. The grounds were impeccable, with sculpted shrubs and trees interspersing a lawn that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was beautiful. And I was going to stick out like a sore thumb. We climbed the stone stairs and Ruth slipped away with another girl. Andrew waited on the top step, looking imposing with his stormy brow and dark features. My parents wait to greet you in the parlor. His glance skittered over me, not landing. I thought he seemed irritated, judging by the set of his jaw. Nervous now, I trailed the two men and Minerva through cool corridors, hurrying to keep up with Andrews long gait. I studied the back of his head, ignoring the no doubt fine furnishings that surrounded us. I wouldnt know how to properly admire them, not being a history buff like my aunt. Instead, I noted Andrew's hair that curled just a bit above his collar. When he turned a corner, I glimpsed his profile for just a second, with the jaw that so enamored me at our first meeting. We neared the end of the hallway. A young man wearing knee breaches, a starched shirt and velvet jacket stood at attention and opened the double doors for us. Inside the room, a man and woman both rose from their stuffed chairs near the fireplace. The man could have been Andrew in twenty years, with the same tall build and only a few gray hairs interspersing his dark locks. The woman was of average height, slender, with a ready smile, though she was a bit pale. Her dark hair coiled into a braid that wound around the back of her head.

As the introductions were made, another set of double doors across the room burst open and two young women appeared. Tristan! Andrew! Their voices rang out at the same time before their father cleared his voice. Sorry, papa, the taller of the two looked contrite for a moment but then grinned at her brother and cousin. Its just that we could not wait to hear all about Andrews trip to Manchester. The second girl, whose red hair favored Tristan more than any other family member, stared openly at me. We didnt realize we had guests. Andrew introduced the girls by their first names. Anna, seventeen, informed us shed been dying for some female companionship. Her brother nudged her but she only gave him an impertinent grin and hugged his waist. Ella, thirteen, seemed a bit shy and didnt speak to myself or Minerva directly. She, too, accepted an embrace from her brother. Overwhelmed by the long carriage ride and the things Id learned from Ruth, I was content to take a seat in the corner and sip the tea that was handed to me. Andrew sat opposite me on a long sofa, flanked by his sisters. Anna whispered something to him and their dark heads bent close together as they conferred. I looked down into my teacup. I'd rather analyze the murky liquid than give him the satisfaction of glancing up to find me watching him. Plus, I was having a hard time watching him interact with his sister. The easy camaraderie they obviously was something I dearly missed from my growing up years. And something that it appeared Minnie and I didnt have. I did my best to stay out of the conversation, letting it flow around me. Tristan addressed Minerva several times, each time eliciting a murmured response and a blush. Andrew did not speak to either of us. I wondered if he still seethed, as he had done when Tristan informed us that we would be returning to Howarth Park with the men. Was he angry that we had interrupted his planned errand, or for another reason? The little gathering broke up soon enough and a maid appeared to take Minerva and me to the room we would share. I found myself dawdling in the hallway, taking in the marble busts and portraits that I hadnt noticed on the way in. A portrait of Andrew, in particular, caught my eye and I paused to study it. The painter hadnt done justice to his fine features, but they had managed to capture his intense eyes. When I looked up again, I realized I was alone in the hallway, and that I didnt know the way to my room. I started off in the direction I thought Minerva and the maid had gone, but I hadnt gone far when the sound of voices stopped me. I recognized Andrews baritone easily. I dont like it. What would you have rather done, left them there? You know as well as I that the Briggs girls need a chaperone until their uncle can claim them. I moved away from the open doorway, not intending to eavesdrop, until Andrews answer froze my feet to the floor. I concealed myself the best I could behind a large potted plant. Yes. I do not understand your cruel attitude. Let me enlighten you, then, cousin. I do not wish our family name tied to theirs in any way. Their uncle is a swindler Why, because he owns a few mills? Nay, I have other reasons to think so. Not to mention the scandals that surround those two women. Rumors, thats all they are. Perhaps. You know that our neighbors will talk, and I cannot stand to think that my name could be tied to that pair of bluestockings. Why, Ive heard that the eldest Miss Briggs took over her fathers affairs after his death. And the youngest she thought to shoe my horse! I stifled the gasp that rose in my throat. And did a right fine job of it, if I do say so.

Ill let my own farrier decide that in the morning. I do not want to be bothered with either Miss Briggs and I advise you to stay away from them as well.

Chapter 5 I found out that proper ladies dont deal in business or work with their hands, except for needlework or sketching. They don't make their own decisions. Most of all, proper ladies never do anything fun. Whatsoever. After three dreary, rainy days of needlepoint, reading and playing the pianoforte or should I say, knotted threads, napping and missed notes the sun finally came out. I wheedled until Anna and Ella agreed to play a game of cricket with me. I didnt know the rules, but I wasnt going to let that technicality stop me from having some fun. Minnie refused to play with us. She and I still werent on speaking terms, and Id been unable to pump any more details about our situation from Ruth. Well, there was no way I was going to let my sister and her black mood ruin this gorgeous day. The girls spent a quarter of an hour explaining the finer points of hitting the ball and the purposes of the wickets. Id never seen a bat like the one they used, with its round handle and flat head. We couldnt play a real game with only three players, but Ella insisted we could practice batting and bowling. I watched as Anna, with her tongue sticking out the side of her mouth in concentration, smacked the ball so that it sailed clean over my head. Andrew is a terribly good catch, you know. Huh? Where had that thought come from? I dare say he doesnt intend to be caught, Ella chimed in, as she trotted after the ball. I once heard him tell Tristan that he wont marry at least until his thirtieth birthday. Anna made a sound that sounded close to a snort. She didnt believe her sister? That is five years from now. Much can happen during that period of time. She winked at me. And I think I know who could change his mind. Heat climbed my neck and into my face. It definitely wasn't from the sun. I know youre not talking about me. Believe me when I say that neither one of us are interested in the other. The conversation between Andrew and Tristan Id overheard the other night came to mind, increasing the warmth in my face. To think that Id actually been attracted to thatthat snob. You haven't seen the way he looks at you when you aren't watching. Ella stood up from her crouch, holding the red ball triumphantly above her head. He does? I shook my head, vehemence clenching my teeth together. Annas eyes danced anyway. Your sister is making that up. And even if she wasnt, it didnt matter to me. So far, I hadnt told anyone of my plans to show up Andrew. I didnt even really have a plan yet, just a fierce desire to best him at something and break his arrogant spirit. Ella shrugged and prepared to throw the ball to her sister again. We shall find out for sure at mothers ball. Andrew hates dancing. If he is indifferent, he wont dance with you. If he does Anna nearly squealed. Oooh, brother. The upcoming dance seemed to be the only thing she wanted to talk about. I cannot believe we've only a fortnight until it is here! This was her third ball, and she was convinced that a certain Mr. Wentworth, of a neighboring town, liked her. She was sure that he would ask her to dance at least twice. She gave the ball a hearty whack, and it veered to my right. To avoid the gushing conversation that I knew was about to begin, I walked briskly away to fetch it. As I scanned the grass for the red object, a shouted hah! carried on the wind and perked my ears. I looked up to see a rider galloping across the moor, his jacket flapping open behind him. Andrew. His silhouette gave him away. He rode the gelding in an all out run. Faulty shoe, indeed. His horse seemed to be doing exceedingly well, considering that it led several lengths ahead of a black horse and its rider. I didnt think Tristan rode the other horse, judging by the width of the man or his hair color. Anna joined me in watching the two men race across the green landscape. Each horse kicked up chunks of rich brown earth. My breath caught in my throat as they jumped one of the stone fences that crisscrossed the green land, then another. Finally, they pulled up where the moor and horizon met, near a church with its spire pointing toward the sky.

Andrew trounced him. Annas voice rang with satisfaction at my elbow. Hmm. A thought leapt to the forefront of my mind, unbidden. I almost didnt hear Anna when she went on. Hes never been beaten. I dare say he is as fast now as he was at fifteen, though hes not quite so skinny any more. A tingling shiver swept through me. Id been on the rodeo circuit during my high school days. Id been blessed to win the barrel race every single time Id entered. Aunt Donna used to say God had gifted me with speed. Your brother has never lost a race? Annas eyes were shining. Never. What are you thinking? Oh, your face is glowing so. I shook my head, afraid to say anything. For the moment. I linked my arm through hers and dismissed any lingering thoughts of the missing ball and our brief conversation about Andrews indifference or lack thereof. I have a sudden urge to visit the stables. Ella, tired of being out-of-doors, didnt accompany us. Anna was a gracious hostess and obviously knew her way around. After a cursory walk through, I felt my heart sinking. Maybe this wasnt such a good plan after all. Of the many horses in the Howarths stable, there was only one a chestnut mare that looked as if she could outrun Andrews gelding. But she was nearly bursting at the seams with a foal that should be coming soon. She was Andrews pride, Anna informed me. The foals sire was a horse that had won several sweepstakes and Gold Cup races. Sigh. My only other chance stood with a well-proportioned dapple gray stallion. He was shorter than Andrews gelding by several hands, but there was fire in his eyes. I didnt prefer stallions, with their extra feistiness. In this case, it looked like my only choice. Hes never seated a woman, Anna told me, her face earnest. Well, you never know until you try, right? I wouldnt recommend it, miss, said the groom when Anna informed him that I wanted to ride. I insisted. It was the only way I stood a chance of challenging Andrew. I had severe second thoughts when the groom brought out my stallion wearing a funky saddle with only one stirrup and a pommel unlike any Id seen before. What is that? I hissed in Annas ear. I pretended to adjust my bonnet and hoped the groom hadnt heard me. A saddle, Miss Mattie. Her dancing eyes and quivering lips said it all. No, Ive ridden on English saddles before and they dont have pommels like that. Annas brow wrinkled. What is a pommel? Before I could open my mouth to put my foot further in it, Andrew and his companion rode around the side of the stable, their horses dark with perspiration. Our eyes connected and I felt the familiar jolt of awareness zing through me, quivering my stomach. I broke the contact first, but then my eyes fell on the weird saddle and I knew this was going to end badly. What is going on? Could their be any more derision in his voice? Miss Mattie is going for a ride. Anna seemed to take pleasure in announcing my intentions. Now I had to ride or be humiliated. On Belvidere? I shot him a glare that I hoped said to leave us alone. It didnt work. He rode his gelding closer, almost blocking me from the stallion. I must insist you choose another mount, Miss Briggs. Why? I challenged, raising my chin. If he thought I would change my mind just because he said so, he had another thing coming. I didnt look at him directly in the eye, knowing if I did, he would have some kind of power over me. Instead, over his shoulder, I met the gaze of his friend, who seemed to be enjoying the fact that Id challenged Andrew. Sharing a glance with the stranger gave me the courage to smile at Andrew and walk around him, to the stallion.

Andrew's perpetual frown deepened into a scowl. I can assure you he will be too much for you to handle. Why dont you let me be the judge of that? I turned my cheek away, so I wouldn't have Andrew in my peripheral vision. I would ignore anything else he had to say to rebuff me. I whispered to the groom to help me get in the saddle. He boosted me up and Anna, the scamp, slipped to the opposite side of the horse from her brother. She quickly motioned me how to adjust my leg and skirt. Oh. A sidesaddle. The posture it required was more than awkward. I probably wouldnt be able to stand the slight twist in my back for long, but I was on the horse. For now. Even though the groom held on to the bridle, the horse shifted uneasily beneath me. At least youre wearing your worst dress, Anna said cheerfully from below me. When you fall, it wont matter if you get dirty. Her words had the affect she must have intended, because I found my balance and grinned at her. I wont fall. The groom released his hold and the stallion skittered to the side, nearly unseating me. I gripped him with my one knee as best I could. Apparently he thought that meant go, because he bolted. My bonnet flew off the back of my head and nearly choked me with its tie. I shook my head, and felt my hair flow out behind me. The stallion galloped past the house, but I gained the upper hand before we escaped to the moor. I slowed him to a walk when thundering hoofbeats announced that Andrew followed us. From the storm brewing in his face, he wasnt happy that Id gotten my way. Or maybe just that Id calmed the stallion myself. I smiled sweetly at him, batting my lashes just a bit. Yes? Did I forget something? He stared at me, his almost transparent blue eyes unreadable. A muscle jumped along his jawline. I told myself that it was the adrenaline and not his eyes that made my pulse thunder in my ears. He wheeled his horse and left without another word. I pretended not to care. But my traitorous hands still ached to run through his dark locks. Instead, I nudged the stallion into a trot, then a canter and didnt look back. ### A half hour later, my temper cooled by the crisp afternoon air, I wished for home. For Oklahoma. Sure, the moors were beautiful. Raw, even. But a big part of me longed for the flat plains of my hometown, where a person could see into the next county. Minnie would be furious if I skipped dinner, so I talked myself into returning. Before I got very far, I came upon a small boy crouching over something on the ground. He looked up with a tearstained face when I came close. My first instinct was to hug the poor thing. Dirt and tears smeared his face his clothes were old, stained. He couldnt have been more than seven or eight, if his height and size were any indication. Whats wrong? M-my dog. Hes 'urt. I dismounted and knelt beside the boy. A little red and white dog, a spaniel from the looks of it, stood with head hung low, one of its back legs dragging the ground unnaturally. I ran a hand along the dogs spine first. It looked up at me with those pitiful spaniel eyes and I knew I wouldnt make it back to Howarth Park in time for dinner. When did this happen? I asked, keeping my voice calm in hopes the boy would stay that way, too. Just a bit ago. He sniffled. A little more probing with my fingers confirmed that the dogs hip was dislocated. I resisted the urge to sigh, knowing it would probably upset the boy. A hip like this could probably be popped right back in if I had another adult with me.

I tried to carry him to Howarth Park, but m not strong enough. Now I took a longer look at the boy. He was so pale and thin that I wondered when hed had his last meal. Dont worry. I touched the boys shoulder. I know just what to do. Well have him fixed in no time. Hopefully. It took some doing, but I managed to fashion a sort of sling with my jacket. With the dog tucked inside it, I was ready to get on the stallion again. I breathed a prayer that he would let me on without any tricks. And he did, though it took me two tries with the skirt, sidesaddle and my bundle conspiring against me. I reached down and hooked my arm with the boys. With a heave, I swung him up behind me. His stick-thin arms clutched me around the middle, cutting of part of my air supply. I didnt tell him to loosen his hold. I held the stallion to a trot, afraid Id bounce the boy off if we went any faster. Wed just crossed the lawn and pulled up to the stable when a tall figure stepped out of the darkened doorway. Andrew.

Chapter 6 The set of Andrews jaw told me he was still angry. And worried, judging by the lines in his forehead. The first thing he noticed was the boy. Simon. Whats the matter? The boy sniffled and began to cry again. Andrew reached for him, at the same time looking to me, concern written in his eyes. His dog is hurt. I kept one arm protectively around the bundle I carried. Andrew set the boy down and reached up for me. His wide hands at my waist lifted me down easily and steadied me on my feet. I prayed that he couldnt feel how I trembled, or that he would think it was from cold. Id given up my jacket to wrap the dog, after all. He released me and the connection between us faded. I couldnt take my eyes off of his face, thinking I could read in his eyes that he felt it too. He motioned to the bundle I clutched against my stomach. What is wrong with the dog? Shadows filled the stable. This was no place to work. Is there somewhere we can go that would have better light? I asked, loath to move away from Andrew and his warmth. The kitchen. He ushered me forward and led the boy with a hand on his shoulder. Inside, the kitchen smelled of bread and cooked meat. Its warmth sent a shiver down my back. My stomach grumbled, but I ignored it. I unwrapped the dog and laid a gentle hand against its shaking shoulders. When I looked up at Andrew, I found an expression on his face that Id never seen before could it be respect? Whatever it was, it made my insides tremble. Do you have anything we could use as a painkiller? He looked at me blankly. To numb his leg? I wracked my brain, trying to remember my classes on the history of medicine. Opium? Finally, his face lit with recognition. Laudanum. He left and returned a moment later with a small bottle. How much? I hid my surprise at his helpfulness. How much would you give a small boy like this? I motioned to Simon. Now half that, and then half again. Carefully, we administered the laudanum. The dog didnt go completely under, and that was just fine with me. I worried that if we gave him too much, he would die. But I also needed his muscles to be relaxed enough to pop that leg back in. Softly, I explained to Andrew what we needed to do, while the boy looked on with earnest fear. Simon, Im going to need your help. I want you to hold on to my waist here I positioned him behind me, where he wouldnt be able to see what Andrew and I were doing. Hold on tightly. I caught my breath when he took me literally. His face pressed into my back. Now wait until I tell you, then well pull together. I met Andrews eyes and dared to wink. In response, his eyes crinkled at the corners. With the dog between us, I took his large hands in mine and linked them beneath the animals thigh. It was hard to keep my focus with his nearness distracting me. The smell of horses clung to us, but I could also smell his scent, something spicy. I didnt look up into his face again. Carefully, I twisted and tugged the dogs leg, while Andrew held him immobile. It took a few minutes, and finally, with a muffled pop, the leg slid back into place. Triumphant, I lifted my eyes to Andrews, amazed when he responded with a smile. It changed his whole face, softening the lines around his shapely mouth. All right, Simon, I said softly. On three. One, two, three. He gave me a mighty pull on my waist. Afterward, I guided him back to his dog with a gentle hand on his shoulder. Hell probably be tired for a while. And youll need to watch him closely for the next few days. Make sure he doesnt run too much or jump around and hurt himself again. The boy nodded gravely. He wiped his sleeve across his face, smearing the tears and dirt that darkened his skin.

Now that our task was complete, I began to notice the kitchens activity going on all around us. Servants hustled food out of the room, probably going to the dining room. My own stomach growled, reminding me that Id missed luncheon as well. It was too late to get dressed and make it down for the evening meal. Plus, there was the issue of what to do with Simon. I couldnt just leave him to walk home. Andrew apparently had the same thought. Lets see if cook can spare some food for us. Of course she could, and she set us up with three steaming plates at a small table in a corner of the room. Before Andrew joined us, I heard him ask her in a low voice to prepare something to send to Simons family. Our eyes locked above the boys head and I lowered my gaze, ashamed to be caught eavesdropping. Andrews kindness warmed me from the inside out. Even more than coming into the kitchen from outdoors. Until I remembered that he hadnt wanted to help Minnie and me because of the scandals. Thoughts of my secret plan ran through my head. Id nearly forgotten about it with Andrew's helpfulness and the way hed looked at me over Simons dog. But the reminder made me feel cold and numb. I didnt look up for the rest of the meal that we shared in silence. ### It took three days for the rest of my plan to work out. Three days in which I noticed every aching moment that Andrew came near. He played cards with the group in the evenings, and our hands tangled over the deck. Sparks shot up my arm. Our eyes met across the breakfast table, his shining with warmth. One evening as Tristan regaled us with tales from their childhoods, I memorized Andrews laugh, a low delicious chuckle that felt like a good piece of dark chocolate. I finally resorted to escaping the room just before or after he entered. Each interaction made me want to like him. And I couldnt afford to like him, not with the way he felt about my sister and I. At last, a sunny morning dawned and I convinced Anna and Ella to come riding. After saddling up, we quickly overtook Andrew and Tristan, just as planned. Andrew rode with elegant grace, a natural horseman. I noticed his hands as they clasped the reins and folded over one leg, relaxed. The memory of how his hands had felt in mine large and powerful and gentle at the same time flashed through my mind. I pushed it away, unwilling to be distracted from my purpose. I drew my gaze away from Andrew with an effort and surveyed the scenery. Yes, this was the landscape I remembered from my previous ride. If I turned my head, I could see the spire of the church, about a half mile away. A haze covered the moors this morning, as the sun burned off the dampness from the previous few days. I took a deep breath of the fresh, wet air, while I tried to bolster my courage. The men put up with our feminine chattering for a few minutes but soon it looked as if they wanted to be rid of us. Now or never. Mr. Howarth, I waited until he looked at me. Unfortunately, so did the whole group. Heat slid into my face. What a nice morning for a race. Don't you think? A flash of surprise crossed his face before he quickly masked it. That sounds a bit like a challenge, Miss Briggs. It was intended to be. His eyes narrowed, the only sign that my words affected him. I'm afraid I do not race with members of the fairer sex. Maybe you could humor me, just this once. My stallion sidestepped, as if sensing the waves of tension churning between us. My chin rose. Of course, if you're afraid of losing to a girl

His jaw flexed. He reined his gelding around until we were face to face and I almost shrank from the fire flashing in his eyes. For a brief moment no one else existed, only Andrew and I and the connection that we shared. He broke the stare first and glanced off to the distance. I would not wish to embarrass a guest or a dear niece of a family friend. He faced the direction we would be starting from, and I did not. I forced my face to remain neutral, not to reveal my anticipation. Everything was falling into place. I wont be embarrassed when I win. His eyes flashed again. Name the course. Yes! I jutted my chin toward my right shoulder. To the church. Belvidere shook his head, the reins pulling against my hand. He was ready to go. I patted his neck and willed him to wait just a moment more. Would you care to make a wager? Oooh. Not in the plan. But interesting. What would cause Andrew the most harm when I won? My mind flew over the conversations Anna and I had shared in the last few days, trying to think of something that would humiliate him. Your terms? A kiss. My stomach reacted first, dropping to my knees. What? A gasp from one of the girls reminded me that we werent alone. I didnt look away from Andrew, pride reminding me of my purpose. Agreed. Was that my voice? And if you win? He looked so sure of himself, so arrogant, that I ached to show him up. This was going to be fun. A dance! I didnt wait to see the surprise on his face before wheeling my stallion around with a nudge to his side. We passed close to Andrews gelding and the hem of my skirt flipped up in the stiff breeze. I allowed it to flutter loose and was rewarded when Andrew's gelding whinnied and reared. The stallion needed no more urging to take off in a smooth gallop. I entertained a momentary hope that Andrew had been unseated, but when I heard a strong hyah! from behind, I knew the race was on. I didnt glance back. If I got off balance I probably wouldnt be able to right myself and would slip off the horse. At this speed, Id probably break something if I fell. The moor slipped by in a blur of green beneath me. Cool wind burned my cheeks and whipped my hair from its bun until it flew loose behind me. I leaned close to the stallions neck, trying to give us the least wind resistance possible. Moving as one, we cleared the first stone hurdle with ease. Then the second. Time slowed. This was my moment. My race. We passed the halfway mark, a low ditch, still in the lead. Drops of foam from Belvideres chest splattered me in the face. Joy and exhilaration bubbled up, and I laughed aloud. We were going to make it! The last hurdle appeared. Before we jumped it, I caught sight of Andrew at my elbow. I only saw his face for a split-second, but Id probably never forget the intense concentration that twisted his features. How had he gotten so close? Hah! I urged the stallion with both my voice and my leg. Did he have anything left for the last rise to the church? To my surprise, he sped up. It wasnt a lot, but it was enough, because we burst onto the top of the hill and slid to a stop right before the church. Ahead of Andrew. I wheeled the stallion around, triumph and pride lilting my voice. I won. You cheated. What? I did not. A little maneuvering couldn't be counted as cheating. He was closer than I thought, near enough to grab my upper arm and hold me in place. I tried to pull away but his hand was like an iron band. Let go. I hated that my voice had gone soft and breathy. Hated that I couldnt stop my reaction to his nearness.

His eyes roved my face. His face was flushed and his hair wind-ruffled. You cheated, and I will claim my prize. Now. My stomach quivered as he leaned closer. He still held my arm, though I couldnt have moved if I wanted to my limbs were tingly and numb. My traitorous lips parted, waiting for his kiss, hoping for it. His eyes darkened, the pupils dilating. Mattie, he murmured, his breath hitting my cheek. I stopped breathing, and closed my eyes. And remembered that he only claimed the kiss out of anger, and pride. An image of Jared came to me, unbidden. The memory of his betrayal hit me like a blow in the face. My eyes flew open and Andrew was so close that I could see the individual whiskers that made up the stubble on his face. His eyes were at half mast and he intended to do it kiss me. Not like this! Panic sent my heart beating against my ribcage. AndrewLet me go. My voice broke on the words. Finding a strength I didnt know I possessed, I pulled my arm from his grasp. Without looking back to see his reaction, I kicked the stallion into a canter and rode for the stable.

Chapter 7 Being ignored by Andrew was infinitely worse than trying to avoid him. It took all the willpower I owned to ride across from him in the carriage, dressed in his Sunday finery, and keep my gaze out the window. Most of all, I was powerless to stop the feelings for Andrew that had burst into life since the day of the race. If only I could find a way to get back to the twenty-first century. Id searched through several tomes in the Howarths library, but found nothing helpful. Hope dimmed with each day I spent here. It had already been three weeks. Maybe Andrews ire was for the best. If he continued to focus on his anger and smarting pride, maybe he wouldnt notice my muddled feelings. Each time his ice blue gaze sliced over me, I bit back the urge to apologize. After all, I didnt have anything to be sorry for. Hed agreed to the race. It wasnt my fault the wind had kicked up my skirt and spooked his horse. It was my fault that I was falling in love again, but I couldnt seem to help it. I noticed everything about Andrew. His strength, the gentleness hed shown Simon when hed helped me with the little dog, his relationship with his sisters. All of it drew me, even though I wanted to ignore it. I didnt want to be hurt again. And it seemed there was no way Andrew would be interested in me now that I'd damaged his pride. I tried to focus in on the conversation Tristan carried on with Minerva, but couldnt find the will to participate. Instead, I watched the landscape passing by the window. Andrew, with his stony glare and crossed arms, didnt enter into the conversation either. Our carriage followed another that carried the rest of the Howarth family. We rolled to a stop before the village church long before Id steeled myself to enter it. Tristan handed me out of the carriage before turning to escort Minerva inside. I followed behind them, Andrew beside me. He did not offer me his arm. Morning sunlight shone through the stained glass windows inside the sanctuary. I was surprised by its plain wooden pews and pulpit. They certainly didn't match the ornate ones I pictured when I thought old English church. The cacophony of voices raised in congregational singing was also a surprise. The hymns were all new to me, and nothing like the contemporary songs I loved from my church back home in Oklahoma. Good thing I was an auditory learner. Andrews baritone from the pew behind me sent shivers down my spine. A man in a dark jacket and starched white shirt stood up and began to speak. The first words out of his mouth had to do with forgiveness, and I tuned out in the same instant. Logically, I knew I needed to face my bitterness toward Jared and Hannah. Sooner or later. Emotionally, I chose later. Instead, I glanced around the room, admiring the costumes of the people who made up this small church. Some simple, some gaudy. Just like my church at home. A pinch from Minerva brought my wandering attention back to our pew. Pay attention, she hissed. With a frown, I pretended to do just that. But I didn't. ### After the service, Minnie and I stood near Tristan and Andrew in the sunshine as the carriages were fetched. Anna and Ella visited with a gaggle of other young ladies, but Minnie and I spoke to no one. Andrew, you must introduce me to the charming young ladies accompanying you. A male voice spoke loud enough that I knew he intended Minerva and I to hear him. I resisted the urge to glance back at the men, instead focusing on Minerva, who'd gone pale.

Andrew spoke in a low voice so that I missed the first part of his reply. they are guests of my family. Nearby laughter from the group of girls overpowered the mens voices. When the girls quieted, Andrew was still speaking. a terrible scandal. I believe the younger Miss Briggs came upon her sister in a compromising situation with her betrothed. Needless to say, the engagement was broken. I must have gasped audibly, because several of the girls nearby turned and looked at me, including Anna and Ella. But I couldn't feel their gazes. Only Andrew's. His eyes skewered me with a hard, triumphant gaze. For a moment, I couldnt think, couldnt move. I turned away from him and my eyes found Minerva, who was whiter than her dress. The look on her face told all Andrew spoke the truth. She'd betrayed me. I felt nauseous. The carriage arrived, saving me from further humiliation. Or was there anything worse than what I felt now? Though I still hadnt mastered the skirts this century forced me to wear, I managed to throw myself into the carriage without help, and without falling. Numb. The feeling came over me in a cloying blanket. Same as is had when I found out about Jareds betrayal. I turned my face to the window and closed my eyes, praying that everyone would leave me alone. I couldnt face any of them right now. Was I so worthless? How could I be betrayed both in this life and in the future? Hurt pounded against my heart, like a hammer to an anvil. But my heart wasn't made of iron. It shattered. Somehow, I managed to hold my tears at bay. I would not cry about Jared again. And Andrew certainly did not deserve one tear either. ### A week later, I was no closer to finding a way home. Minerva avoided me day and night, often slipping into the room after Id doused the candle. My conscience prodded me to make amends with her, but my broken spirit demanded she pay for what shed done to me. I spent most of my days staying a step ahead of Andrew. If he was out-of-doors, I stayed in the salon or library. If he was indoors, I went out on the moors. Most of the time riding Belvidere, but this afternoon I walked. I could no longer avoid the conclusion Id denied until now. This was all God's fault. So, in the same vein of pride Job suffered from, I challenged Him. God, why? Why did You let the people I trust betray me? Nothing. No response except the soft breeze that rustled the grasses. Whats wrong with me? My past, in the future, was all confused with the life I now found myself in. Jared and Hannah might as well be Minerva and the man I didn't even know his name who'd caused my scandal here. And Andrew was all mixed up in it, too. What I felt for him was stronger than anything Id felt for Jared, but hed hurt me by his cruel words, spoken to another. Answer me, God. Why do I deserve this? The LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." The words came to me, a soft whisper in the gathering dusk. They must have been from one of the Bible verses Id learned as a child, but I couldnt remember what chapter and verse. I wanted to reject the comfort they offered. It doesnt make it hurt any less. The LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." I fell to my knees in the fragrant heather. My fingers pressed against the ground. I knew one thing for certain: I didnt want to hurt any more. I wanted to let God take my pain.

With that realization, peace began to steal into my heart. The heart I'd been trying to protect, but couldn't. Tears I thought were long gone slipped from my eyes. God was with me. Maybe I could go on. Maybe I could find my place. Warmth rushed through me, so much that I could no longer feel the cool breeze nipping at my bare arms. God was with me. Galloping hoofbeats brought my head up. Quickly, I wiped the remaining tears from my cheeks. Backlit by the sun, I couldn't see the face of the rider. But I knew the horse. Andrew. He rode directly toward me and stopped, only feet away. I couldn't read his expression in the shadow of the sun's halo. I resisted the urge to look away. I couldnt fathom a reason why he would seek me out. Forgive me. My heart hammered at the breathlessness of his tone. For interrupting your walk. I didnt know how to respond. Part of me wanted to walk away, but my limbs felt weak. How could I still react so strongly to his presence? Miss Mattie, the mare is foaling and something has gone terribly wrong. Oh. I quashed the seed of hope that blossomed inside me. He needed help with his horse. I looked down, so he wouldn't see my disappointment. I know you have no incentive to help me, Andrew continued, his voice low. A proper English lady would never work with animals. And every reason to despise me. But the time spent with Andrew might be worth any reproach I would receive from Minerva. It wasnt as if I had a stellar reputation to protect anyway. If you cannot find it in your heart to help me... I heard his exhaled breath over the breeze that rushed in my ears. I beg you to have pity on the horse. Slowly, I looked up. His eyes were still unreadable. I took one step toward him. Of course Ill come. I'll meet you at the stable. He shook his head. I fear theres no time. We must hurry. And he reached out his hand for me. I grasped it, trying to ignore the emotion that his touch evoked. With a little boost, he swung me up behind him. My skirt made for an awkward fit and I ended up doing a modified sidesaddle thing without the saddle. There was no pommel for me to grab, so I did the next best thing for my balance and the worst thing for my equilibrium: I wrapped my arms around Andrew's waist and twined my fingers together. All right? Yes. It would have to be. He wheeled the gelding toward the stable and the horse responded to his urgings to canter. Wind, made stronger by our speed, whipped my hair from its pinnings into my eyes, causing them to water. I closed my eyes and pressed my cheek into the back of Andrews jacket. Being this close to Andrew was indescribable torture. Through his coat, I could feel the muscles in his back, his almost imperceptible movements to stay balanced on the horse. Goosebumps prickled my arms from the cool wind that whirled around us, but all I could feel was Andrews warmth seeping into me. His hand covered my bare, intertwined fingers, shielding them from the elements and sending heat up my arms. I trembled. Did he know? Pressure from his hand increased in an exquisite squeeze. We stayed that way until he pulled the gelding up near the stable. Andrew handed me down and followed quickly, releasing the geldings reins to a groom. His hand on my back as he ushered me into the stable disconcerted me. What of your farrier? I asked, hoping the man was on his way. Silence. I glanced at Andrews face. The lamplight revealed a faint flush creeping into his cheeks. I didnt send for him. I believe I thought only of you.

I managed to hold back a gasp of surprise. While part of me rejoiced that Andrew finally saw my value, the other half niggled with doubt. What if I couldnt help the mare? What if she died? And what did Andrew really think of me, that I was willing to enter a mans domain? Inside the stable, a large birthing box had been prepared. Surprisingly, Anna paced outside its confines, her face tight with concern. I peeked over the wooden railing to find the mare lying on her side. She barely lifted her head when I entered the stall. Not a good sign. She should be more agitated than that. Andrew followed me in and latched the door behind him. What do you need? I dont know yet. I walked around the horse slowly, not wanting to alarm her. Kneeling at her head, I stroked her neck, noticing that it was wet and hot. Probably a bucket of hot water and some strong soap. And towels or blankets. Andrew wheeled and said a word to one of the grooms. His face was stony when he turned back. How long has she been down? About an hour, Anna said. She rolled around on her back a bit at first, but shes been still for a while now. Worry clenched my stomach. Andrew and Anna were depending on me to help this mare and her unborn foal, when I hadnt actually helped in a birthing myself. Mostly I watched Dr. Richard do it. I took a deep breath. God, I need some help here. The words from the moor echoed in my mind. God was with me. Even now. Within minutes, the groom returned with a bucket of tepid water and a bar of hard soap. With a shrug, I resigned myself to take what I could get. I lathered soap on my hands and forearms then moved around the horse to her flank, praying the whole time. Moments into the examination, I found the problem. In a natural birth, both of the foals front hooves should emerge first, then its nose, and the rest of the body slips right out. This foal had one hoof caught in the birth canal, causing the whole operation to stop. An easy fix, and a few moments later, the foal lay on the hay at my feet. Exhilaration flowed through me for a moment until it registered that the foal didnt move. Anna gasped from somewhere behind me. I knelt next to the foal, looked up at Andrew. Keep the mare down. He nodded and moved to her head. I cleared the sticky mucus from the foal's nose and mouth. Still no movement, no breathing. I'd seen Dr. Richard rub newborn foals with hay, so I tried that too. A minute ticked by, each second lessening the chances of the foal's survival. I wracked my brain for a solution, anything I hadn't tried yet. God, help! As if a hand from above guided me, I leaned down and blew into the foal's mouth. Once. Twice. Three times. And the foal drew a shaky breath. Then another. Andrew whooped. Anna began weeping. I rocked back on my heels and sat down in the hay, tears coming to my eyes. Thank you.

Chapter 8 Getting ready for a ball was no easy process. I hated having my hair done. Most of all, I didn't want to dance with Andrew. Ruth, whats a blue stocking? Hours into the grooming and preparation, I was beginning to get fed up. At least I was finally dressed, though I'd lost the battle about my corset. Drat the torturous inventions. Ruth was putting the final touches on my hair, but she paused to consider my question. Her brow furrowed. Where did you hear that, miss? Her avoidance piqued my curiosity. I don't remember. Somewhere around, I guess. Minerva spoke up from her seat on the edge of the bed. Not a blue stocking. One word. Bluestocking. It means a woman that is... too involved in things only men should be involved in. Oh. Like shoeing horses. Birthing foals. I closed my eyes. Sighed. Wished again for something I could never have. Ruth hummed as she tucked the last few late rose blossoms into my hair. Her mood only made me feel more sour. Spending these few weeks observing the Howarths had filled in some of the gaps of my understanding. Although our uncle was wealthier than the Howarths, neither Minerva or I would be considered an acceptable match because uncle's fortune had been made in trade. In contrast, the Howarths owned quite a bit of land and real estate and had passed down their wealth through the generations. Aah, aristocracy. Our family connections were the reason why Andrew and I couldn't be together. Oh, and the minor inconvenience of our family scandals. Although Andrew wasn't totally avoiding me, he'd kept his distance since the birth of the foal. He and his father had been locked away in the library most days working on an important business dealing. Or so Anna said. I kept to myself, spending a lot of time in the stable, watching the colt and its mother. I couldn't stop thinking about Andrew and the ride we'd shared. I really didn't want to dance with him tonight. He probably knew I had feelings for him, and that's why he avoided me. Would he even uphold his part of the wager? I had no idea and we'd spoken only sporadically in the last few days. Never of the race or our almost-kiss. The thought of being in close proximity to him, with my messy emotions, made me want to avoid the whole thing altogether. If he didn't know already, I didn't want him to see that I was in love with him. Drat my traitorous heart. Ruth tilted her head, her eyes narrowing as she looked over my hair. She teased the soft ringlets that shed curled around my face. She must have sensed my jitters because she clasped my hand briefly. You look lovely, miss. In the mirror, I met Minerva's eyes. Her hands twisted in her lap and she'd gone whiter than Id ever see her. Actually, I said, trying to smile, Minerva will be the belle of the ball. Look how pretty she is with her pink ribbon. It was true. Minervas dark blond hair wrapped around the back of her head and the pink ribbon against the white gown she wore complimented her figure and complexion. But her blue eyes were large and scared. She smiled, almost a grimace. I would as soon stay up here instead of going down. A woman of eight and twenty will never be noticed among the other women. However, I would not disappoint our hostess. I glanced to Ruth, unsure how to respond. Warmth and sorrow reflected in her eyes. I cleared my throat. Surely Tristan will ask you to dance. Ruth dropped her comb on the floor. I bent and picked it up.

Minerva shot a startled gaze at me, then abruptly looked away. I dare say he will not. Come, let us go down before we are missed. It wasn't exactly an apology, but at least she had spoken to me. I could hear the sound of many voices even before we arrived at the Howarths beautiful staircase that led down into the foyer. Going up from the first level it split so that it led off to both wings of the huge house. As Minerva and I descended the top half-flight of stairs, Andrew appeared at the head of the stairs coming down from the other hallway. He looked incredible in his dark jacket and trousers. The crisp white cravat he wore accentuated the strong lines of his jaw. Drat the mans valet for making him look so handsome. Drat everything tonight. I tried not to look at him as he descended opposite us. But our eyes met and held, and under the intensity of his gaze, I faltered and missed the last step. He reached out a hand to steady me. The contact was over before I could blink. Or maybe I only imagined the warmth of his hand. He stood back so that Minerva and I could precede him down the stairs. I felt his eyes burning into my back the rest of the way down. At the bottom of the staircase, I stepped to the side and paused, half-hidden behind the banister. Minerva didn't seem to notice my absence as she moved easily through the press of people. Could I sneak back upstairs unnoticed? May I have the first dance, Miss Briggs? Andrews voice came close to my ear, low and intimate. All thoughts of escape flew from my brain. My lower back burned where his hand touched it. I-- The rest of my words lodged somewhere near my sternum. I swallowed, but my mouth felt like sandpaper and I couldn't get anything else out. Say yes. His warmth breath on my cheek made my pulse thrum. Don't make me beg. I couldn't look at him, afraid he'd see the emotions that quivered through me. Okay. I'll find you when the music starts. And he was gone. My heartbeat clanged like the beat of a well-swung hammer against an anvil. This time it didn't shatter. Nor did it slow down during the twenty interminable minutes before the violinist drew his bow across the strings and sent the first notes out over the noise of the crowd. Andrew appeared at my elbow and swept me into the frenzy of dancing couples, though it wasn't like any dance I knew from my life before the nineteenth century. Ruth had showed me the steps to the most popular dances a few days ago and I managed now without making too many noticeable mistakes. The English country dance required almost no touching, but each time Andrew's hand closed over mine, I felt the same spark of energy that had pulsed through me on our ride across the moor. He didn't speak, even during the part of the dance where we spun in a tighter circle by ourselves. I only met his eyes in fleeting glances because I didn't want him to know how he affected me. I focused instead on my footwork and on the couples conversing around us. I declare, the Howarths certainly host a divine ball. I caught the words from the woman dancing next to us. She was stunning. Her fine dress and hair coiffed with sparkling jewels spoke of her wealth. Her partner appeared to hang on every word. Oh! She gasped softly. I cannot believe who Andrew Howarth is dancing with. My face heated and I missed a step. What was the next move? I froze. Mattie, Andrew whispered. He clasped my wrist and drew me into the proper formation. Our eyes met and held. His smiled as if he hadn't heard the painful words. But I couldn't seem to block them out. A giggle. Yes, simply scandalous. Her sister dallied with her beau. All other conversations in our vicinity stopped. I extricated myself from Andrew's grasp, ignoring the fact that he called after me, and slipped out a nearby veranda door without looking back. In seconds, I was hidden deep in the garden, where no one could hear the sobs I muffled in my hands. Humiliation worse than what I'd felt in the churchyard obliterated the one seed of hope I'd held onto. Why would Andrew choose someone with a past like mine?

Why had Minerva betrayed me? Why didn't God protect me? He'd taken away everything my parents, my fianc, my life. For God so loved the world The words from John 3:16 reverberated in my head. It was the first memory verse Id ever learned. No. The groan ripped from my raw throat. Chilled from the cold, wet air, shivers racked my body. I didn't want to think about God's love. Love hurt too much. ...that He gave His only Son... She betrayed me. Sob. Just like Jared. Sniffle. And Hannah. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Hadnt Jesus been betrayed? And given his own life anyway? How could I resist Someone who loved me that much? Oh, God, Im sorry. Peace stole into the darkness, warmth spread over my goosebump-riddled skin. I wiped the tears from my cheeks. I still didnt know why God had allowed those closest to me to betray me, but I knew that He never would. I could go on, even if I had to go on alone. I remained in the garden, praying. I prayed for Jared and Hannah and for Minerva. Even for Andrew, though that prayer ripped my heart out. The realization that he was better off without me was hard to bear, but its truth resonated in my heart. Not ready to go back in to the ball yet, I knew that if I stayed out here any longer I would likely cause another scandal. I got up. The sound of voices stilled me. I recognized one of them Minerva. I dare say we should go back now. She is not here. In a moment, poppet. I didnt recognize the male voice, but its tone set my teeth on edge. Should I sneak away, or go to meet them? Lead me, Lord. I insist we return to the ball. When I moved to find them, my slippers didn't make a sound against the garden pavers. That was good, but it meant that Minerva's wouldn't either. How could I locate them without calling out? The man's voice came again. Aw, come now, poppet. I agreed to help you look for your sista. I should get sumpin' in return. I heard a sound like a slap. You shouldna done that. Unhand me! Minerva cried out. I ducked around a corner in the hedge and came upon them. A man clutched Minervas shoulders while she struggled. Fear for Minerva and anger at someone who would try to hurt her pulsed through me. I rushed at them and my clenched fist connected with the mans jaw. Pain splintered up my wrist and forearm. Minerva fell to the ground. I moved between her and the man. His eyes were dark and glinted with evil intentions. I could see the rest of his face clearly in the light of the full moon and his twisted smile sent a shiver of fear or disgust through me. He touched his lip and his hand came away with blood on the fingertips. Before he could try anything else, I blurted, I think you should leave. Youre not welcome here. He laughed, expelling hot breath that reeked of alcohol. I don't think so. He reached out for me, but I stepped out of his reach. I'll have me payment first, lassie. Minerva whimpered. My whole hand throbbed from the punch I'd thrown. What should I do now? The sound of approaching footsteps sent relief spinning through me, almost making me dizzy. I called out.

Andrew and Tristan rounded the corner. ### Moments later, Minerva sat on the stone bench where she'd been relocated by Andrew. She wept into the handkerchief he'd given her. I sat next to her, patting her shoulder lightly, trying to ignore Andrew's presence in the shadows nearby. Instead, my skin prickled with awareness. Tristan will be back in a moment, I murmured. Minerva began to sob in earnest. Ssh. I wrapped my arm over her shoulders. You're okay. We're both all right. I h-h-hate you. Stunned, I broke contact and sat back. I'd just saved her, and she hated me? He chose you. Stone called on me first he was my suitor! And you took him from me. I didn't want to hear this, but Minerva went on anyway. So I took him back. She hiccuped. I intended only to test him, but each stolen moment... He was so charming. He loved me better, you know. Heat swept over me, bringing the familiar hurts with it. It was worse, knowing that she'd wanted to betray me. He intended to break the engagement. One afternoon, we embraced. One thing led to another, and when you found us She began to cry again. I reached for her. She batted my hand away. You ruined everything. I folded my hands in my lap, trying to still their trembling. I bowed my head. God... Nothing else came. The peace I'd felt from before remained, replacing the hurt. A nudge in my spirit reminded me what was expected. I breathed in deeply. Touched Minerva's hand. I forgive you. She looked up as I spoke the words. For a moment, her eyes seemed to soften. Then her face twisted. You cannot forgive me. You're not my real sister. What? My heart beat painfully in my chest. I know your secret. Ruth told me everything. Even if I hadn't believed her, your ignorance that I was the one who betrayed you would have given it away. That may be true, but it looks like you're stuck with me. Tamping down the panic that rose in my chest, I glanced over my shoulder where Andrew stood, a few yards away. Had he heard Minnie's words? Where are they? Tristan's muffled voice interrupted further conversation. I stood up and turned away from Minerva. I couldn't bear to look at Andrew. To see what he really thought of me. My actions tonight were the icing on the cake. Even if Andrew had somehow managed to look past the fact that I'd helped birth the foal, there was no ignoring that I punched one of his mother's guests. Defending my sister or not, it wasn't ladylike. I'll escort you inside. I barely registered Tristan's words, or that Minerva left with him. I folded my arms across my midsection, trying to stave off the chill that had taken up residence with Minerva's last words. I really didn't want to go back inside and face that crowd again. Maybe I could stay out here until they all left. Andrew's shoe scuffed against the ground behind me. He cleared his throat. Did he have to be so polite? I wished he would just disappear. Then I wouldn't have to face him. We should probably go back inside, I said. I turned to find him only a few feet away. The moonlight cast angular shadows on his face. He was smiling. The rogue. I wish to have a word with you first. The urge to escape made my toes tingle. He couldn't have anything good to say after tonight's shenanigans. Andrew... He came closer. His smile faded. Please. With a broken nod, I allowed him to take my arm and seat me on the stone bench. He slipped off his coat and laid it over my shoulders. Our shoulders brushed when he sat down.

Let me see your hand. He took the one that still throbbed and began to slip off the white elbowlength glove I wore. Heat from his palm grazed my skin. He brushed his thumb over each of my knuckles before tilting his head to appraise my face. I don't suppose you considered that you could have been harmed before you rushed in to rescue your sister. No. I could barely get the word out past my trembling lips. Of course not. He raised my hand to his lips. The gentle pressure of his kiss against the forming bruise was like nothing I'd ever felt before. His eyes held mine and seemed to be sending me a message, but it must've been coded because I couldn't decipher it. I looked away, my heart slamming against my ribcage. I know it wasn't the proper thing to do. I'm sorry for ruining your parents' ball. I tried to pull my hand from his grasp, but Andrew only held tighter. I don't mean to keep causing trouble. It just sort of... follows me around. Your sister may not appreciate you at this moment, but she will. He touched my lowered chin, raised it. His thumb skimmed my jaw. As I do. I gasped and raised my eyes to Andrew's face, only to find him leaning closer. Wait. I tried to stop him with a hand to his chest. It didn't work. He just took my other hand in his and murmured, I have waited a lifetime. His mouth covered mine with gentle fervor, firm but undemanding. New tears sprang up behind my closed eyelids. I kissed him back. He withdrew too soon. His hands moved to my shoulders and he brushed another kiss against my temple. Mattie, he whispered. I have long dreamed of someone like you. Shaken, I let out a strangled laugh. A bluestocking? He pulled me closer. The stubble on his chin rasped against my cheek as his head lowered. I couldn't help myself. I raised my face and met his kiss again. Love welled up from the deepest crannies of my heart. So much so that I could no longer contain it. I wrapped my fingers in Andrew's shirtfront and eagerly let my lips speak for me. When I pulled back, breaking the kiss, he pressed his cheek against mine. Andrew spoke first, his voice coarse. You're no more of a bluestocking than my mother. You're strong. You fight for what you believe in and for your family. He paused, took a breath. I wish to marry you. Marry me? Andrew wanted to marry me? Words wouldn't come out of my suddenly dry mouth. Will you accept my hand? I swallowed. Andrew deserved to know the truth if we were going to spend our lives together. There's a lot you don't know about me. I know enough. I love you. The words seeped inside me, filling all of the places that had been broken before. God, please. Let it be real. Say it again. His mouth came down on mine, firmer this time. I love you. Marry me, he said against my lips. My heart insisted there was only one answer. I will. ### Two months later, we said our vows in the same little church where Andrew had once humiliated me. Before the wedding, I told Andrew everything. My life in Oklahoma. My background as a blacksmith and veterinary student. Jared and Hannah. It took some convincing to make him believe I was not the original Matilda Briggs, but with help from Minerva and Ruth, he came around. And he still married me. Who knew that true happiness wasn't limited to a certain century?

Or that scandals could be overcome, if you knew the right people. Most of all, who knew that forgiveness could lead to the sweetest love of all? The End

SNEAK PEAK MARRYING MISS MARSHAL The report of a rifle echoed through the red-walled canyon, ringing in Marshal Danna Carpenter's chest. A second report sounded close after the first. She reined in her mount and pushed back her Stetson, instantly alert and scanning the area for trouble. The shots could've been someone hunting gamealthough there wasn't much of it to be found in these washed-out ravines southwest of townor it could've been someone discharging their weapon for a more nefarious purpose. As town marshal, she had to be prepared for both possibilities. Danna's horse shifted beneath her, its movements telling her it sensed something wrong as well. But what? Then she saw him, in the last rays of sunlight slipping over the canyon's edge. A man staggering along the canyon floor, booted feet dragging in the sandy soil. He carried some kind of luggage over his shoulder. From this distance, she couldn't see a rifle. Too far away to determine his identity, Danna guessed she didn't know him. His clothes were too fine for these partsdark pants, vest, jacket, and a bright white shirt. Most folks around here wore woolen trousers or denims, and plain cotton shirts. What was he doing so far from town? And on foot? Any halfway intelligent person knew you didn't traipse around the unforgiving Wyoming landscape without a horse, or a mule at the very least. Before she could decide whether to waste the last of the sunlight to check on the stranger, or to head out of the canyon toward home, her horse's ears flicked back and his shoulder quivered beneath her gloved hand. The ground trembled. From around a natural bend in the canyon, a cloud of dust rose like steam from a kettle and sent fear skittering down Danna's spine. And the terrible sound she was hearing began to make sense: hundreds of pounding hooves, getting closer every second. Stampede. She couldn't leave an injured man to be trampled to death. Danna kicked King's flank and gave a shouted "hiyah!" The horse rocketed toward the figure still too far away. Peripherally aware of the canyon walls racing by, Danna watched the greenhorn pause and looked up toward the sky. What was he doing? A few hundred yards behind him, cattle began to round a bend in the canyon. The beasts bellowed, and that must've jarred the tenderfoot from his stupor, for he turned and faced the approaching wall of horns and hooves. He froze, the item he carried sliding to the ground. Words rose in Danna's throat but she had no breath to call out, not when all her concentration centered on reaching him in time. He wouldn't be able to hear anyway. As the cattle closed in, the man's sense of self-preservation seemed to kick in, for he turned to flee, caught sight of Danna, and began to run in her direction. Danna fisted her mount's mane with both hands, leaning forward until her torso rested against his foam-flecked neck as she pushed the animal even faster. The man looked up and, for a moment, time seemed to suspend itself. His eyesa bright, clear bluemet Danna's, and she saw his fear and surprise. A solid wall of cattle closed in behind the man. Too close. Clinging to the saddle horn with her right hand, gripping with her knees, she caught hold of the tenderfoot under one arm, and used her horse's forward momentum to sweep him up behind her. "Hold on!" she cried. The man's arm slung tight around her waist, Danna pulled the horse into a tight turn and fought to keep the stallion from unseating them both. She knew the fear of death in that moment, her twenty-four years playing out before her eyes, so many mistakes mademistakes she desperately wanted a chance to rectify. They weren't going to make it.

A squeeze of Danna's legs sent the horse into a smooth canter, but it was too late. Several cattle overtook them, one bumping the horse's flank. The animal stumbled, but somehow managed to keep its feet. Fear stealing her breath, gasping, Danna clung to the horse's neck as it sped forward, quickly outrunning the cattle and their thundering hooves. Thank God. What had the fool man been thinking? "Do you have a death wish?" the womanwoman!who'd saved Chas O'Grady's hide shouted over her shoulder. He barely heard the words over the din of the cattle still surging around them. Her glossy black braid flopped over one shoulder and thwapped him in the chin. "Didn't you hear the stampede?" Chas sucked in breath after breath of wonderful, fresh air before he could force any wordslike, "I thought the racket was distant thunder"out of his frozen jaw. "You're a woman!" His arms still around her, he felt her stiffen infinitesimally. But the pounding adrenaline and building anger in his system kept his words flowing. "Are you entirely out of your head? You could have been killed riding straight into a stampede!" "Perhaps you'd rather I hadn't rescued you? Because you would've been killed trampledif I hadn't scooped you up out of there." He felt her inhale deeply, then she blasted him again, "And I certainly didn't see any men around to do the job properly." The woman's fiery retort stymied him for the moment, because it was true. There hadn't been anyone else in the canyon, and he would never have been able to outrun the cattle. The thought of what she'd riskedher lifebrought bitter memories to the surface. Chas blinked away the images of another woman falling, her blood spilling. This woman, whose name he didn't even know, wasn't dead. Even though she'd put herself in danger for him. Memories and self-loathing churned in his gut until his rescuer turned her horse up the canyon wall, nearly unseating him with the sudden movement. Chas clung to the woman's waist, eliciting a huff from her. Her faded denims and wide-brimmed hat had caused him to assume she was a man from a distance, but with his arms wrapped around the curve of her waist, there was no mistaking his rescuer was pure female. He couldn't get a good look at her features from behind her, but she must be nearly as tall as his six-foot stature; the brim of her hat rested only inches in front of his nose. Several dark strands of hair escaped from her braid and curled along the nape of her long, slender neck. Her head was in constant motion, darting left to right, and it gave Chas fleeting glimpses of her cheekbones, the soft bow of her lips, the dark sweep of her lashes. She was beautiful. And she guided the horse as if she and the animal were one. In any other circumstance, she would have turned his head, trousers notwithstanding. Instead, with his detective's nose for curiosity already piqued, his mind swirled with questions. Why was she riding alone in this rough part of the country? And dressed as a man? Could she possibly work for one of the ranching outfits in the area? What rancher or foreman would hire a woman to work on their range? "What are you doing out here alone, anyway?" he demanded, trying to force back his darker emotions. "It's dangerous." "I could ask you the same," she returned sharply. "You're obviously from a big city, and this isn't a populated area. These arroyos are subject to occasional flooding. You're on foot. What happened to your horse? Have you gone astray from your destination?" Her questions implied he couldn't take care of himself, and they sparked his irritation. "I'm not lost." That statement was a bit of an untruth, but Chas wasn't about to admit that his sense of direction had been compromised by the winding canyon. He'd been operating as a private detective for several years. Being a little out of place was not the worst situation he'd ever managed to escape from. He would've found shelter eventually, if this female cowpoke hadn't come along. Probably.

"And if you must know, I had a horse. I bought her in Cheyenne, butwell, let's say the man who sold her to me may have exaggerated her condition." He thought he heard a small noise of amusement from his unusual companion, but he couldn't be sure. His curiosity got the better of him and he couldn't resist asking, "Tell me, do all women in the Wyoming Territory dress the way you do? Or are you attempting to pass yourself off as a young man?" "No," came the sharp retort. "No to which question?" She didn't answer, but he felt her draw back on the reins, and the horse slowed. "Are we stopping?" he asked. "Why?" They hadn't even attained the canyon's rim yet. He'd hoped to make it to the small town of Calvin before evening set in. "It's getting hard to see." The woman's voice was soft and melodic, but her words were clipped and terse. "I won't risk my horse or our lives by trying to climb this shale in the dark." Chas glanced at the purpling sky, realizing how long the shadows had gotten along the canyon walls. He was no outdoorsman, but even he could tell it would be full dark in minutes. "We can't just stop, can we?" Chas brought to mind the hotel room he'd hoped to find tonight. With a bed. A chance to wash away the trail grime he'd accumulated since leaving Cheyenne. "It looks like there's a level patch up ahead." She nodded, though he couldn't see what she was talking about. It all looked the same to himan uphill climb. "We'll stop until the moon comes up." "Are you sure it wouldn't be better to keep going?" Chas persisted, not ready to give up on the idea of that bed. She ignored him. As the last of the sunlight faded into pitch-black, the woman pulled up her horse on a somewhat flat piece of land. If they were going to spend the next few hours trapped together in the dark, perhaps he should apologize to his companion. Certainly, it wasn't her fault her actions had touched on a sensitive memory he spent most of his time trying to suppress. Best get it out of the way quickly. "Miss, I'm sorry" She interrupted him by pulling out of his loose grasp and sliding off the horse's back. A bit miffed at her dismissal, he followedand misjudged her closeness, thanks to the darkness. His momentum nearly knocked both of them to the ground, but he steadied her with hands on her forearms. Her breath fanned his chin, her warmth tangible as the night cooled around them. Chas's heart thundered in his chest, much like those hooves that had been so close to taking his life. This time for a different reason. "Miss, I meant no offense by my earlier words. I was" He paused, looking for the right thing to say, knowing he couldn't tell her about Julia's death. "I was simply expressing my surprise to find my rescuer a woman." She pulled away, but he still sensed her nearness. Her movements in the darkgetting something from the saddle?seemed jerky and stiff. It was clear she'd rejected his apology. He went on. "I am grateful for your fancy riding. I'd rather not meet my Maker today, and I've no doubt those beasts would've stomped all over me if not for you." "I would've done it for anyone." Her voice sounded muffled, and he wished for a candle or a beam of moonlight, so he might see her face. "Stay here." She disappeared into the darkness. Only the muted sounds of boots scraping against stone told him she was still nearby. Stay here. He mimicked her curt words silently. What did she think? He would wander off in the dark and get lost? She'd already made it clear what she thought of his abilities traversing this very canyon. Agitation and impatience made him restless, and he paced away from her horse. And stepped right off the edge into nothing.

Danna heard an indistinct shout, the scrabble of falling rocks, and then silence. "Hello?" she called, not bothering to disguise her annoyance. She kept after the small stand of bushes she'd spotted as darkness fell. If she had to wait until the moon came up, she wanted to be able to see the man she was stuck with. She tried again. "Mister?" He'd flustered her with his nearness after he'd landed on top of her while attempting to dismount the horse. She hadn't been so close to a man since her husband's death. And even during their brief courtship and the early days of their marriage, Fred Carpenter hadn't caused turmoil in her gut like the warmth from this man's hands did. What was wrong with her? Fred had only been gone a few months! And she didn't even know the stranger's name. Irritated with herself, she spoke once more. "Tenderfoot?" No answer. Her extended boot met some resistance and she knelt to gather the dry undergrowth from the bushes. Using the flint and steel she'd retrieved from her saddlebags, she had a small fire burning quickly. She turned toward her horse, that had remained where she'd left it, but the man was nowhere to be seen. She resisted the urge to groan. 18 Making sure the fire had enough fuel to burn for a few minutes unattended, she returned to where she'd left the tenderfoot just moments before. Past her placid mount, the rocks on the edge of the slope had been disturbed. She frowned and walked over, noting this area had a bit of a dropoff, instead of a gentle slope. It was hard to see in the dark, away from the fire, but by leaning out over the edge and squinting into the darkness, Danna was able to catch sight of the tenderfoot several yards away. He lay still, with one shoulder cocked in an awkward position. "Oh no," she breathed. Louder, she called out to him, "Mister, can you hear me?" A soft moan erupted from his lips, but he didn't move, other than to roll his head toward her. Forcing calm she didn't feel, Danna retrieved her rope from its tie behind the saddle and looped it around the saddle horn before tossing the length to where her unlikely companion lay. "Mister? Can you reach the rope?" She didn't expect a reply, so she wasn't too surprised when none came. Keeping one hand on the rope, she scrambled down the steep incline as best she could. She slipped twice, and rocks bit into her palms as she fought to keep from joining the tenderfoot in a tumble. She wouldn't do him any good if she injured herself, too. When she reached him, Danna knelt at his head and studied the man. His hat had slipped to one side, and his sweat-matted hair was dark next to his fair skin. "Mister, you've sure got a way of getting into some pretty good scrapes," she muttered. She probed his scalp and neck gently with her fingertips, searching for injury. Though obscured by a few days growth of stubble, he had a strong jawline. He gasped when her palm brushed his right shoulder. Keeping her touch as light as she could, Danna ran her fingers over the arm and shoulder, and he moaned again. "Hurts." "I know. Looks like you've knocked it out of place." She prodded his torso and legs, but found no additional trauma. She did find a gun belt and weapon at his hip, but ignored it for now. "I can reset it for you. But we need to get you up the hill so I can see what I'm doing." "I'll try," he said, and clenched his teeth as he rolled onto his good side. She helped him to his hands and knees, but he shook his head and collapsed onto the rocky soil. "I can't" he wheezed "make it." "All right." She smoothed a hand over his forehead, as if she was comforting her almost-niece, Ellie. "Tell me your name." "Chas." A breath. "O'Grady." She filed the name away. O'Grady sounded Irish. She nodded absently and murmured, "I'm Danna Carpenter," as she considered the best way to get his shoulder back into the socket. "What brings you to Wyoming?" "Job." "Not cattle."

One corner of his mouth quirked upward. "How'd you know?" "Lawyer?" He snorted a laugh, then grimaced as if the movement pained him. "Railroad surveyor?" she guessed, and gave a mighty tug. O'Grady's upper arm and the shoulder slid into place with an audible click. She was impressed when he didn't cry out, just rolled his head and looked at her with those blue eyes. "Thanks. You're a doll." Then he passed out. Danna sat next to his unconscious form in the darkness, willing away the blush that had flamed across her cheeks at his words. Stunned. Something had happened inside her when he'd looked at her, when she'd heard the endearment he'd spoken. Something inside her opened, like a flower unfurling. Attraction? Whatever it was, it was decidedly uncomfortable.

SNEAK PEAK THE HOMESTEADERS SWEETHEART Wyoming Territory, summer 1890 Hadn't he promised himself not to get into a situation like this again? Jonas White stood on the dusty street in his Sunday suit, letter clutched in his hand, gazing up at the fine house. It seemed too much of a coincidence that his neighbor and closest friend--although they were two generations apart in age--was related to a wealthy banker when Jonas desperately needed a loan. And the letter Jonas had promised to deliver for his friend would grant him access to the banker he'd been trying to see all day. But Jonas had stopped questioning the Lord's hand in things once he'd met his neighbors, the Nelsons, just over five years ago. Staring at the light spilling from the glass-paned windows onto the large, well-kept yard reminded Jonas of another place and time, and how as a child he'd often looked in on some of Philadelphia's wealthy families. Like those stately town houses, this house was ostentatious. Two-story and much larger than the other homes on the street. Or in the whole town of Calvin, Wyoming, for that matter. Jonas resolutely pushed the painful memories to the back of his mind. His daughter needed him to do this, and he couldn't fail her. Sounds of voices and tinkling china trickled out from the wide-open front door. Was the banker hosting a party? If so, this might not be the best time to call, but Jonas needed to take care of business before the woman who was watching Breanna for him left town on the next Eastbound train. He brushed at some dust on his jacket sleeve and took a deep breath, reminding himself that his loan was a reasonable request. If only he felt more comfortable interacting with high-society people like the banker, but his upbringing didn't exactly lend itself to that. Trudging up the steps before he could change his mind, Jonas entered the elegant home. The entry hall was empty, but voices drew him to a parlor packed with people. One or two of them shook his hand, welcoming him as he moved through the crowded room. Most ignored him. Jonas scanned each face, looking for the portly man with salt-and-pepper hair that he'd glimpsed briefly on the boardwalk this morning. No sign of the banker. Conversations ebbed and flowed around him as he moved through the parlor and into another lamp-lit room in search of Mr. Castlerock. He knew he was out of place, and the disdainful looks he received from some of the partygoers only confirmed it, made him feel as awkward and unwelcome as he'd felt at eighteen in the Broadhursts' Philadelphia home. "Can I help ya, son?" Jonas turned at the voice and caught sight of a plump woman with an apron covering most of her ample figure. Here was someone from his class, someone who could help him. Relief flooded him. "Yes, I'm looking for Mr. Castlerock. I'm to deliver this letter, and I need to speak with him on another matter--" The woman took the letter from Jonas. "I'll put it aside for the boss. If he sets it down during the party, he'll never remember where he put it in the morning. Last I saw him, he was in his study, down there..." She nodded toward a door down the hall and her voice trailed off as she bustled away in the opposite direction. "Thanks," Jonas murmured to her departing back. He couldn't be sure which room she'd meant to indicate--there were two doorways on the left and one on the right, so he peeked into each as he passed. Finally, he had no choice but to enter the room at the end of the hall. So intent was he on locating the banker, Jonas didn't notice her at first. But as he tried to slip through the...crowd without bumping into any of the fine furnishings or well-dressed guests, he caught a glimpse of upswept copper curls, burnished to fire by the lamplight. He'd only ever seen one person with that color hair in his entire life.

Jonas stopped moving, dumbstruck, as a tall man in a black jacket moved away and his view became unhindered. It was her, with the laughing blue eyes he remembered and wearing the frilliest, fanciest peach colored dress he'd ever seen. The girl he'd admired from afar, back in Philadelphia. Penny Castlerock. He'd guessed from the unusual surname that she might be a relation to the wealthy banker, but never imagined he would see her here. He'd thought she would be married to a Philadelphia businessman by now. What was she doing in Wyoming? Penny Castlerock caught sight of the farmer the moment he stepped into her father's study, where some of the guests had congregated. His dark suit was ill-fitting, in contrast to the tailored jackets worn by her father's acquaintances, but the suit's ugliness couldn't hide the muscled shoulders most likely earned through days of backbreaking labor in a field somewhere. His crown of blond hair showed a noticeable line where his hat must have rested earlier in the day. And there was the hat. Clutched in one hand against the farmer's leg. The man appeared to be looking for someone, if his roving brown eyes were any indication. The moment those intelligent brown eyes spotted her, he froze, a thunderstruck look on his face. While he seemed vaguely familiar to her, she couldn't be sure she'd met the man before. And while she prided herself on the unusual shade of her hair and had taken extra pains to powder away the smattering of freckles she could never completely eliminate, she usually didn't elicit such a strong reaction upon a first meeting. It was quite flattering, even if he was only a farmer. She moved to intercept him, breaking off a conversation with her dear friend Merritt Harding, the local schoolmarm. After all, a lady's duty was to ensure all guests' needs were met. With advice from Mrs. Trimble's finishing school ringing in her ears, she greeted him with a warm, "Good evening," and the best smile she could procure after spending a long hour with her father's guests. He emitted a strangled sound, not words, and gripped his hat in both hands, holding it almost as if it was a shield in front of him. "There's punch on the serving buffet just through here, if you're thirsty." Penny extended her arm to indicate the dining room. The man still didn't move, and she struggled to keep her smile in place. Common courtesy demanded he answer her, but he remained silent. And his stare was bordering on rude. What was he doing here? Her father usually only included those he deemed "important" and she wasn't sure this farmer fit the bill. "I'm sorry, have we met before? Perhaps you're one of my father's acquaintances?" she asked, when the silence between them became fraught with tension. "Penelope, darling, there you are." Penny half-turned at her father's booming voice, relieved for the interruption from the awkward onesided conversation. Why didn't the farmer say anything? "Father, I've just been greeting one of our guests. This is Mr" She left off her sentence to allow the farmer to offer his name, but instead he moved past her and extended his hand toward her father. "Sir, I need to talk to you in private, if you have a few moments." So the farmer could speak. But she still didn't know his name. Her father's face creased as if he couldn't quite place the man. "I don't believe we've met. What can I do for you?" "It's a business matter, sir." The farmer glanced briefly at Penny, just a flash of his brown eyes. Penny was used to being excluded from her father's business, but it was a matter of contention with her. She felt women were intelligent enough to be involved in business matters, but her mother had always deferred to her father, leaving Penny no choice but to do the same. Her father chuckled, not a kind sound. "I'm sorry, son, but I don't discuss business matters during my private parties." Penny knew that was an exaggeration. Her father often had an after dinner cigar or drink with his associates to talk business. Why didn't he want to speak to the farmer?

"You're welcome to make an appointment at the bank." Her father took her elbow, obviously considering the conversation finished, and began to guide Penny away from the farmer. "Sir, I've been to the bank twice today, trying to see you." The farmer's statement was louder this time, drawing looks from others in the study. Penny's father didn't stop, but she saw his face redden from the corner of her eyea sign he was becoming irritated. "I'm sorry to hear that, but I'm a very busy man, you know." Penny stifled a snicker. Yes, and her father was also full of his own self-importance. She almost felt sorry for the farmer, and probably would've if he hadn't caused an uncomfortable scene. "I need a loan," the farmer called out as Penny and her father moved away, his voice becoming desperate, intense. "I've a homestead with a cabin and a barn to put up for it." Her father's face was now crimson, indicating his mood had moved from simply irritated to angry. That did not bode well for the farmer. "Son, you'll have to come to the bank and talk to me during business hours." With that final statement, her father swept from the roomas much as he could in the press of people now craning their necks to see what the raised voices were aboutpulling her along with him. "The nerve" he sputtered, apparently unable to form coherent sentences. "Embarrassing me in front of guests" "You could've granted him a private audience," Penny admonished softly. She knew her words were a mistake as her father's face purpled. He opened his mouth to rebuke her, when they were interrupted. "Ah, Penelope. You look positively striking this evening." A familiar, nasally voice silenced what her father would've said, giving Penny a reprieve. For now. She knew her father would have much to say to herprobably in a tiradeonce the guests had taken their leave. However, this interruption wasn't one she particularly desired. She forced a smile, knowing her father was also schooling his own features. The Castlerock family was nothing if not proper when in public. Her father's position on the town council demanded no less. Nor did the man himself. Her father's business associate, Herman Abbott, half-bowed over her wrist, and Penny couldn't help but note the clamminess of his gripmuch like a limp, dead fish. She reclaimed her hand and tucked it into the folds of her gown, wishing she could wipe away the disgusting feeling but not daring to. She couldn't help a glance over Mr. Abbott's skinny shoulders to the long case clock to gauge how much longer she had to participate in tonight's event. "I was hoping to speak to you tonight," Mr. Abbott went on, apparently not noticing her inattention. "With your father's permission, I'd like to take you on a buggy ride tomorrow morning. I've just had the carriage resprung," he said as an aside with a proud look at Penny's father. "I'm afraid that won't be possible," she inserted before the men could decide for her. "I'm going to help Mr. Silverton at the bank. Mrs. Shannonthe bank teller" she explained for Mr. Abbott's benefit, "just had her baby and he has not been able to find a replacement yet." She hadn't promised any such thing, but the bank manager would indulge her if she arrived early enough. She had no desire to spend time with her father's associate. Not only was he older, much closer to her father's age than Penny's, but there was something about him that made her uncomfortable "You know I don't like you working in the teller window," her father hissed. To Abbott he said, "Our family is certainly of a station that my daughter has no need to work. Of course, her mother and I encourage her to help those less fortunateshow compassion for the common man and all" Penny gritted her teeth, hoping her facial muscles approximated a smile while the two men chuckled. While she enjoyed the fine things her father's money bought, such as the taffeta gown she wore this very moment, she didn't think that same wealth gave her father reason to lord it over those around him. The men's arrogant posturing bothered her, and she allowed her mind to wander. Why had her father dismissed the farmer so abruptly? The man seemed familiar to her, though she couldn't recall a name. Had her father been in such a hurry to partner her with Abbott that he'd been unnecessarily rude to the man?

And why couldn't her father sense that she had no interest in Mr. Abbott? Of all her father's associates, there was something about Mr. Abbott that unnerved her. It wasn't that he looked at her inappropriately, per se. But something behind his eyes A man in a resplendent dark jacket approached, and Mr. Castlerock was drawn into conversation, leaving Penny and Mr. Abbott standing together. "It seems a shame to waste the morning," he said, turning his glittering gaze on her. "Are you sure you can't get out of your commitment to the bank?" Penny managed to keep her smile in place, but it was a near thing. "I'm certain." "Perhaps we can arrange for a buggy ride in the evening, then," he pressed. "Perhaps," Penny hedged. She knew an outright refusal would be considered rude, but she didn't want to encourage the man. "I'm most interested in deepening our acquaintance" Why must he push so? "Oh!" She glimpsed a flash of fuchsia skirt passing the doorway. "I've just seen a friend I absolutely must speak to. Will you excuse me?" She inclined her head and scooted away before he could respond. Emerging in the hallway, Penny spied her sixteen-year-old brother Sam sneaking into the kitchen and changed her course to follow him. She slipped through the door, one hand against her midsection as she tried to catch her breath. That had been entirely too close for comfortshe had no wish to spend any more time with Mr. Herman Abbott. Sam's head jerked up from his station behind the fancy chocolate cake that Ethel, the family's combined cook and maid, had spent all morning baking. "Sam, you'd better not be thinking of disturbing the food for our guests. You know Papa is still angry about the nasty words you painted on the side of the schoolhouse." At her admonishment, her brother's expression changed from guilt to something colder. "I told you that was Billy, not me." She didn't know whether to believe him or not. He'd been in plenty of trouble all on his own, including the horse he'd tried to steal right off Main Street, and as of late she had difficulty identifying if he was lying or not. "Just don't do anything to cause trouble tonight," she chided him. "We just want a taste of cake, that's all." Her eyebrows went up. "We?" "Me 'n Louie." Sam tipped his head to the side and Penny's gaze followed to the window, where the shadow of a head and shoulders could be seen. "Papa wouldn't let him come to the party" And no wonder. She'd never seen Sam's friend wear anything but torn, stained clothing. He probably didn't own a Sunday suit and wouldn't have fit with her father's associates. The comparison made her think of the farmer, who hadn't fit in at all, but there had been something about him that had drawn her "and we just want a taste, anyway." "Sam" she warned. She had a bad feeling that this would lead to trouble for her brother. "Aw, why don't you go back to your beau and leave me alone?" Penny hoped he wasn't talking about Mr. Abbott. The stubborn tilt of her brother's chin told her he wasn't going to listen, so she turned to leave. She spared him one more glance as she returned to the gathering. Sam motioned his friend to come in the back door. "I can't believe you embarrassed me like that. Herman said you just ran off and left him." "I saw someone I needed to talk to" Penny tried to explain, but her father spoke over her words. "While your impulsiveness might be charming to your friends, I'm not certain it is a trait Herman is looking for in a wife." Penny opened her mouth to tell her father that was just fine with her as she had no desire to have Mr. Abbott for a suitor, when her father continued.

"Herman has asked for my permission to pay court. It is his intention to marry soon. We've talked and decided you'd make an excellent match." Her mother's eyes came up from the afghan bunched in her lap, but she remained still and silent on the parlor sofa. Penny couldn't contain a gasp. "Am I to be settled like a business deal, then?" Agitated, she rose and paced to the front window. "I don't like Mr. Abbott. I have no wish to be courted by him or to consider marriage to him." She didn't have to look in the reflection of the glass panes to know her father's face was going red. "Herman is one of my closest associates" "And that has nothing to do with whether he would be an acceptable husband." Penny whirled to face her father. "He is arrogant, speaks only of his own interests all the time. Why, I doubt he even knows I like to paint!" "Those things will come as he gets to know you. You will allow him to come courting" "I won't" "You will, or you'll see your clothing allowance severely curtailed. I have given Herman my word." Penny shook all over, her anger was so great. "Darling, why don't you go up to bed?" her mother suggested, ever the peacemaker. "Perhaps we can discuss things further in the morning." "There is nothing further to discuss" "Papa, can't I go to bed?" Sam interrupted from his slouched position on the other settee. "No! I'm not through with you, boy. I can't believe you ruined a whole cakethere was no dessert to serve to my guests" Penny turned and stomped away, knowing she'd get no further with her father while he was in the midst of one of his tirades. Thankfully, his attention had turned to Sam, but what was she going to do? Her mother followed her out of the parlor. "I'll come up and help you unpin your hair." Upstairs in her room, Penny fumed as she nudged aside the romantic dime novel she'd been reading earlier and settled on the chair in front of her looking glass. How could her father do this to her? Her mother appeared behind her in the reflection and began removing the pins holding the intricate style in place. Her fingers in Penny's hair were a comfortas they'd been throughout Penny's youth, whenever her father had lost his temper over something insignificant. Like a grass stain on the knees of her dressthe reason she was careful to look perfect at all times. "I can't believe Papa would do this" "Your father and I want what's best for you, darling," came her mother's voice, muffled by pins pressed between her lips. "Well, it isn't Herman Abbott, no matter what Father thinks." "How can you know?" her mother asked, again with her unending patience. "You should get to know him, allow him to court." I don't want to know him. Penny didn't voice the thought. It seemed as if her mother already agreed with her father's decision. "But several weeks ago, I overheard him telling Papa he didn't think our church should support the needy." At the time, his words had shocked her in their callousness. "Perhaps you misunderstood," came her mother's unruffled response. "But" "Your father and I want to see you settled. You had a chance to make a match of your own when you were away at finishing school. And when you came back from Philadelphia without a husband three years ago, we didn't push" The reminder of Penny's failure to land a wealthy Eastern husband rankled. She'd known her father had been disappointed, but none of the men she'd met had caught her interest. She was only twenty-three, not an old maid yet. "Give Mr. Abbott a chance."

"But" Penny grasped onto the first thing she could think of. "What about love?" She tapped the romance novel with her index finger. Her mother's expression flickered in the looking glass. "Love comes later." "Like it did for you?" Penny asked. She immediately regretted the impertinent question. Why couldn't she control her impulsive tongue better? "I'm sorry, Mama. I didn't mean that." Her mother was silent. "Butwhat aboutdon't you remember what it was like between Grandfather and Grandmother?" As a child, Penny had been allowed to spend summers with her maternal grandparents, who lived on a homestead a day's ride away. Even in the reduced circumstances they'd lived in, Penny had been awed by the love her grandparents had shared. They never seemed to argue, always put each other's needs first. It had been a stark contrast to the relationship her parents shared, where her father made constant demands and her mother never stood up for herself. Her mother finished removing the pins and shook out Penny's long, curly tresses. She reached for the silver-plated hairbrush on Penny's dressing table. "Your father has not always been the easiest man to live with," she finally said. Penny thought of the tirades, her father's unmercifully high expectations. She knew the Good Book said to honor thy father and mother, but didn't it also say fathers, provoke not your children? "But neither was your grandfather." Her mother's surprising statement brought Penny's eyes back up to meet hers in the looking glass. She couldn't imagine her gentle, quiet grandfather in a temper. "Never having enough money for new dresses, or boots" Her voice trailed off, obviously she was lost in the past. Penny gazed at the skirt of the beautiful peach gown her father had allowed her to have for tonight's event. She fingered the soft lace at her wrist. It was an exquisite gown. And she had several more, just as fine "You must give Mr. Abbott a chance," said her mother at last, putting the brush back on the table. Penny didn't argue with her, but her mind was made up. She would never accept Herman Abbott as a suitor. She just needed to figure out a way to escape his attentions.