Page 8 of Montana Groom of Convenience
Hugh directed his gaze toward Sawyer. “I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure.”
“Hugh, this is Sawyer Gallagher and his sister, Jill.”
The men shook hands, Hugh unmistakably curious. Then he offered his hand to Jill, and she solemnly took it.
Hugh returned to a seated position. “Now, what is it I can do for you?”
Carly and Sawyer glanced at each other, turned back to Hugh, and spoke at the same time.
“Marry us.”
Hugh sat back, shock and surprise making his mouth fall open. He sucked in air. “Marry you? To each other?”
Carly nodded.
“How do you know each other?”
“We don’t. First time I saw him was this morning after I had tea with Annie.”
“I see.” He tented his fingers and tapped the ends of them together. His gaze was serious and not exactly affable. “Then may I suggest that this is rather sudden?Perhaps you should wait and get to know each other better.”
“Why?” Carly and Sawyer asked at the same time.
Sawyer continued, “We know what we’re doing.”
Hugh shook his head. “You know nothing about each other.”
Carly made a derisive sound. “This from a man who advertised for a mail-order bride.”
Hugh had the grace to look embarrassed. “I would have wanted a few details before I actually tied the knot.”
“I know all I need to know,” Sawyer said, his voice calm. “Like she said to Jill, we need a home, and she needs a family.”
“She does?” Hugh didn’t have to sound like this was unexpected news to him. Even if she’d never before mentioned this need. The truth was she’d never considered such a thing before, but thanks to Father’s ultimatum, it had become imperative.
“Does Annie know of your plans?”
“Not yet.” Carly hadn’t had time to inform anyone.
“Do you mind if I ask her to join us?”
Annie knew why Carly had to do this. She would support Carly’s decision. “It’s all right by me if it’s all right by Sawyer.”
“I’ve no objection.” He sat still and patient. As if it didn’t matter that he was about to marry a stranger.
Carly eased back until she pressed to the wooden chair. She slowed her breathing and did her best to appear as unconcerned as Sawyer.
Hugh hurried from the room. They heard his murmured conversation with Annie, though they could not make out the words. Heard her surprised response,then the pair returned, Hugh carrying a chair for Annie. He put it beside his own.
“You want to get married?” Annie asked, her voice and expression full of shocked surprise.
“I told you I would.”
“Yes, but I didn’t think...” She shook her head. “I didn’t think it was possible.”
Carly chuckled, seeing the humor in this situation. “I told you to pray I’d find a husband.”
“Yes, but?—”
