Page 34 of Savoring Christmas
“I can tell you from experience that a woman like Patty has learned the world is untrustworthy and cruel. She won’t know if she can trust us.”
“Is that how you are? After what happened?” Logan asked.
“Unfortunately, yes.”
“You can trust me. And my family. But I understand being wary. I’m naturally suspicious of people.”
“Even though your life’s been perfect?” Mia asked.
That stung a little. “Not perfect, but blessed, yes. My parents had struggles through the years. You don’t own a farm without experiencing some lean years. That was one of my arguments for college and law school. Stability.”
“Have you found that?”
“I have. I make a good living,” Logan said. “Should I be ashamed of that?”
She flinched, clearly taken aback. “Not at all. I’m just saying that some are dealt an easier hand than others.”
He nodded, sipping his wine, his thoughts tumultuous. All these years he’d thought being an attorney and owning a home would be attractive qualities to a woman. Right now it felt the opposite.
Cannoli stretched and yawned and came to sit between them on the couch. Logan stroked her soft ears, unsure of what to say.
“I’m sorry. I’ve offended you,” Mia said.
“You have actually.” His voice was tight.
“I didn’t mean to. Sometimes my bitterness comes out way too loudly. It’s just that I had so many dreams and they all went up in flames.”
He softened a little. “I understand.”
“I find it hard not to feel envious of other’s good fortunes. I’m not proud of it.”
“Yes, but it’s understandable.” He paused. “Does it make you uncomfortable—seeing my home?”
“Not uncomfortable. Inadequate.”
“You shouldn’t feel that way. None of what happened to you was your fault. Anyway, I’m certainly not one to judge someone on their earthly possessions. I see the woman you are, with or without a large bank account. And, frankly, you amaze me. You should be proud of yourself for starting over, especially after what happened.”
“I had a friend’s help. My best friend from high school. Sharon. I mentioned her the other night. She married a patent attorney.”
“They do well,” Logan said.
“Yes, and she was generous. If not for her, I don’t know what I would have done.”
“You’ve been a good friend to her, I imagine. As she has been to you. Generosity between friends is something that comes from deep nurturing on both sides.”
“I suppose so.” She pressed her hand against her mouth, obviously trying to stifle a yawn.
“Are you tired?”
She nodded. “A bit, yes. I tend to go to bed early. There’s not much to keep me awake.”
“It’s late. You’ve had wine, and we’re heading to see the McDonalds first thing in the morning. Why don’t you stay here tonight? The guest room’s ready.”
Her eyes widened slightly. “I wouldn’t want to trouble you?—”
“It’s no trouble. And the guest room’s pet-friendly.”
She hesitated, then nodded. “All right. Thank you. Why not? A nice bed in a warm home sounds too good to pass up.”
