Page 52 of A Secret Heart
“You wanting to leave the home place altogether?” Drew’s focus landed on Ed now with scrutiny.
“We’ve all worked too hard to keep the homestead going for me to just up and leave. I can use the money I earn to help the family,” he repeated.
Drew considered for a long moment. “Maybe you should keep your earnings. It’s time for you to have something for yourself.”
Could it really be so easy?
Drew’s gaze cut to Ed. “Especially since you and Rebekah seem to be getting close.”
“What?” He flushed. All of a sudden, he felt as if his collar was choking him. “Did Kaitlyn tell you?”
“You think someone had to tell me you were sweet on Rebekah?”
Drew had noticed?
“She’s nice. A little independent, but she’s sure got eyes for you.”
Ed’s heart pulsed at his brother’s words.
“Why don’t you make things official? Ask her to come courting.”
“There are complications.” Ed pushed Lightning faster, outpacing Drew’s horse.
“You mean like the bruise on your cheek we’ve all been trying not to notice?” Drew came even with Ed again.
Ed felt a phantom blow where Isaac had hit him. “That, and more.” He blew out a blustery breath. “She’s always wanted Isaac.”
“That’s not what I saw last night,” Drew said. “Since you were little, you’ve always tried to compete with Isaac. Have you tried being Ed?”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Be the steady beau who’s always there. A shoulder to cry on,”
Ed snorted and Drew grinned at him. They both knew Rebekah wasn’t some fainting lady from a dime novel.
Ed hesitated, then blurted, “And if that’s not good enough?”
Rebekah had pined for Isaac for a long time. Did feelings like that just go away?
“Best advice I’ve got.” Drew flicked the reins to speed up his horse, then called over his shoulder. “Strays up ahead.”
Ed gave Lightning his head.
Rebekah had been waiting for him this morning. It meant something. Drew thought so too.
He knew what he needed to do. He just needed time to do it.
* * *
Later in the afternoon, Rebekah helped Kaitlyn prepare supper in the kitchen.
“Me ’n’ Isaac. We brung celery and carrots.” Tillie made the announcement as she dumped the carrots onto the counter. “I even washed them. He told me to bring them inside.”
That sounded right. She’d seen Isaac in passing earlier this morning. He’d been headed to the barn and had clearly been surprised to see her. For once, she’d been able to read his expression.
And then he’d hightailed it to the barn without even a hello.
Thus, it wasn’t a surprise that he hadn’t come inside, not when he knew she was here.
