Page 107 of Brides and Brothers
Benson grabbed Daisha’s hand in a tight grip. It was like he knew she wanted to bolt. “Daisha, I have never once thrown around a marriage proposal. When have you known me to be anything but sincere? I’m twenty-nine years old. I’ve helped raise a family too. I know how much work it takes to support one. And I could list a string of disappointments that would impress even you.
“Aiden was on the tail end of his service mission when my parents were killed. The life insurance wasn’t finalized, and the meals from church members only lasted two weeks. After that, my family would’ve starved if I hadn’t kept the farm going and put food on the table. But that’s not the only trial I’ve experienced in my lifetime, nor am I complaining. I’ll be a better husband and father because of those hard times, so you can remember that the next time you play thewoe is mecard. I date for one purpose, and that’s to get married. You’d better understand that now. If you agree to date me, there’s a strong possibility of a forever kind of commitment.”
Camille’s arms erupted in goosebumps. A lump formed in her throat, and her eyes filled with moisture. So much of what he said reminded her of Aiden, and it made her ache inside.
Daisha sighed, and more white mist poured from her mouth. “I never should have said those words—or implied that you weren’t sincere. I know you’ll make a wonderful husband and father someday.”
Benson put his arms around her as the first tears escaped her eyes. “I’m sorry I rushed things,” he said. “Sometimes I can’t get the words from my brain to my mouth, but this time I’m afraid they came out a bit strong.”
Daisha shook her head. “No, I’ve needed someone to shake me like that. I’ve always seen myself as a victim of my circumstances, but it’s refreshing to know someone who doesn’t view life’s problems like they’re out to get them.” She relaxed against Benson as his hand stroked her hair. She never ever cried in front of people. Not even Camille. But Daisha felt safe—possibly for the first time—and Camille hoped she would let it all out.
“I’m afraid to ask if I’ve scared you away,” Benson said.
The disappointment in his voice caused her to pull back out of his arms. She wiped her eyes with her fingers. “I was thinking the same thing about you.”
Benson pushed Daisha’s hair behind her ear. “How about we call it a truce? I won’t bring up marriage again if you agree to go to dinner with me next week.”
Daisha’s wet cheeks lifted in a smile. “You’ll never bring it up?”
Benson held up three fingers in a salute. “Not for the entire meal—scout’s honor.”
“I would never doubt a scout’s honor.” Daisha grinned. “I think I can handle dinner.”
Camille dropped the curtain and put her back to the wall beside the window, sighing with happiness. Benson and Daisha had the makings of something special. Her smile wavered. She’d once thought that about her and Aiden. Now she didn’t know what to think. Why was it easy to see the potential in others’ relationships but not in her own?
