Page 383 of Conveniently Wed
Katherine’s chin quivered, and she looked away.
“Does that make sense?”
She nodded. One tear snaked down her cheek.
“Why does it make you sad?” He longed to gather her in his arms and comfort her, but that would only frighten her.
“I’m…surprised. That was most thoughtful of you.” She brushed the tear from her cheek with a quick swipe and started walking again. He fell in beside her, waiting for the next two questions.
“Why me? You could have any woman in the valley you want.”
He’d been expecting this question. “Why not you?”
“I’ll tell you why not me. I’m not cultured or poised. I know nothing about being rich, having servants, or dressing up for dances and dinner parties. I’m a plain, hard-working farm girl.”
“And I’m a rancher, and I hate entertaining. We’ll make a good team. Besides, I would not call you plain." The compliment set her eyes blazing.
“You’re just like the rest. I knew it.”
“What does that mean?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“Of course, it matters. I can see I’ve upset you.”
Like a mask pulled over her face, all emotion vanished. “I’m fine, Mr. Richardson. Let’s turn around now. Ma will have tea and biscuits ready, and I know she’s hoping you’ll stay for supper.”
Josiah wasn’t fooled. He’d said something to offend her.
Katherine spun back toward the house, lifted her head high, and picked up speed.
He matched her quick gait. “And the third question?” He was afraid to ask, but more afraid not to.
She laughed as if she didn’t have a care in the world. “Do you like cats?”
“Cats?’
“Yes, cats. I have an old cat named Tabby who miraculously survived the Yankee burning, and I’d like to bring her with me.”
“I love cats.” He didn’t even have to feign his enthusiasm.
“Really?” She threw him a sideways glance. For the second time that day, he caught a glimpse of a real smile.
He nodded. “The one pet my mother allowed while growing up was a cat. They bring back fond memories. My barn is home to a number of strays.”
“I’ll introduce her to you after tea. She lives in the barn.”
She hurried them back, and the grim set of her jaw sent doubt nibbling at the edges of his mind. Could he really win her love? Or would she pretend for the sake of her family, much like she was doing at the moment?
5
Katherine hated the nervous tension that filled her during Josiah’s weekly visits. But to keep up the façade to her family that she was at peace with her decision, she had to endure his presence.
“He’ll be here soon.” Pa’s chair squeaked as he rocked back and forth. A slight breeze blew across the porch, bringing much needed relief from the heat. “How are you doing, Katie girl? Are you getting to know the man?”
She searched for a way to keep from lying. “Well. It takes time to get to know someone.”
“Yes, ’tis true. But the two of you seem to be hitting it off real fine. Love will grow.” He leaned forward and patted her knee.
