Homespun Bride

Jillian Hart 205“Oh, just what I’d been praying for!” to Robert’sadvice, “Go on, now, go have a nice time,” toAngelina’s shocking comment, “I’m predicting a Maywedding. June at the latest.”She truly hoped Thad had not heard that. She wason her feet without realizing it. Matilda had her elbowand guided her to the front door. Henrietta thrust thecoat into her hands. And Thad was there, his unmistakablepresence had her turning toward him, and she felthis smile with all of her heart.He thought this was funny, did he? She steppedthrough the open doorway and let him help her into hercoat, aware of her family members’ careful and excitedscrutiny.“Goodbye, now!” Henrietta practically sang. “Yoube back in a couple of hours, Mr. McKaslin.”“Yes, ma’am.”Thad sounded as if he were smothering laughter, andthe moment her coat was fastened and he took her handin his, she could feel the connection between her heartand his. That rare, emotional bond they’d always hadwas here again, anew, and she felt the strong bright happinessthat matched her own.He’d come for her as a friend, just as he’d said. Shelet him guide her down the steps and along the path.She was going to enjoy these moments she had withhim because she had learned the hard way in life thatnothing lasted. Everything changed. Before she knewit, Thad would be busy with his ranch and his dreams,and she would never see him again.She waited until the door shut firmly behind thembefore she apologized. “I don’t know what has overcomemy aunt, but she has jumped to conclusions.”