Homespun Bride

118 Homespun Bride“Fine. Christian duty and all that.” Aiden fisted hishands. “How about I take over at the Worthingtons. Youhold down the fort here.”“You? At the Worthingtons?” That was almostlaughable. “You know there’s nothing but women overthere?A cook, a maid, those daughters and Mrs. Worthington?”“And that Kramer girl.” Aiden quirked one eyebrowas if to give those words special emphasis. “I’m unaffectedby her. By any woman. I’d best take over in yourstead for a couple of days, at most. I suppose morefamily are coming to help?”“Don’t know.” Thad smiled at Sunny’s nicker andpoured a quarter of the bucket into the trough. Sunnytook a look at that and shook his head in argument.Thad rubbed his nose. “More later, buddy. I’ll comeback with some warmed mash for you. Is that acceptable?”Sunny seemed to consider it and dipped his muzzleinto the cool, fresh water.Satisfied his horse was cared for, Thad left thebucket on the aisle floor and turned to face his brother’sdispleasure. “I’m not going to make old mistakes.”“I’m not so sure.”“Doesn’t matter.” Thad grabbed his saddle pack fromthe rail he’d slung it on and hefted it onto his shoulder.“I’ve got a duty, is all, Aiden. Surely you understandduty.”“What I understand is that look in your eye.”“What look?” Thad shouldered open the side doorand barreled out into the harsh weather. He didn’t haveany look in his eyes. What he had was conviction. Hewould always do right by Noelle. It was as simple as that.