Page 52 of Wagon Train Promises
Hazel hurried to Louise. “You’re feeling better, I hope.”
“Much better, thanks.” She had her goals firmly in place.
Cecil, with Petey in his arms, stood by the fire, watching them.
Louise would not let herself think that he was concerned. Or—she gulped—hurt. Did he suspect she was purposely avoiding him?
“Good.” Hazel reached out to pull Louise to her feet. “The water has really gone down. Soon, we’ll be able to join the others.” She drew Louise toward the fire. “I made stew for dinner. It’s ready.”
“I should have helped.” What sort of friend pretended to be sick and left the work to others?
The same sort who would kiss the man her friend should have.
“Nonsense.” Hazel waved away Louise’s concern and served each of them stew.
Louise did her best to ignore Cecil and his demanding look. She’d made herself clear. Hazel was her friend, and she’d not do anything to interfere with what was best for her.
As soon as she’d finished her meal, she gathered up the dishes and began to wash.
Hazel grabbed a drying towel, but Louise waved her away.
“Petey doesn’t look sleepy yet. Why don’t you and Cecil take him for a walk so he’ll be ready for a nap.” It seemed she was always suggesting they take walks, but what else could she do to get them off on their own?
“Louise?” Hazel studied her. Then, shook her head and took Petey by the hand.
Cecil didn’t move. His unblinking gaze burned like hot coals. He crossed his arms and waited.
But there was nothing she could add. Or do. Except stand with her hands in the hot water and her gaze at the wagon beyond his left ear.
CHAPTER 13
This was not how Cecil thought the day would go. His plan to prove his affection had gone nowhere.
Surely, he could be forgiven for one kiss given in haste. And yet she’d blocked him in every way since. He’d apologized. What else could he do?
“Walk?” Petey held out a hand to Cecil.
At least someone welcomed him. Cecil trotted over to the boy. He smiled at Hazel. She, too, was worried about Louise. A smile was the only reassurance he could offer.
They walked to the edge of the trees when Petey dropped to the ground, crying.
“He’s tired,” Hazel said.
“Then it’s time for him to have a nap.” Cecil scooped up the little guy and carried him back to the wagon. He lifted him inside, and Hazel followed.Now. Now was the time to talk to Louise.
He turned around. She was gone.
The burning sensation that rushed up his veins had nothing to do with the bright sun overhead or the dying flames. Or even the strong coffee he’d consumed at the noon meal.
It was entirely because of his frustration with how she treated him.
There had to be a way to explain that she would accept. Not that he meant to say that he regretted kissing her. Or growing fond of her and wanting more time with her.
Wanting—
He groaned.
“Something wrong?” Hazel called from the wagon.
