Courtship of the Recluse

She jerked the door open. Stop thinking about it. It was too late or too early to do anything about it now. In a few more weeks she could make a routine visit to the doctor. She might be worrying for no reason. After all, even if it was the right time, it didn't mean pregnancy was inevitable.

When she came through the living room the fire was roaring, but Cade was nowhere in sight. For that much she was grateful. Yet, when the smell of bacon lured him to the kitchen, she found herself wishing he would address the subject. Instead he was withdrawn and somber, even picking at his food. Finally he pushed his plate aside and rose from the chair.

"See you tonight," he mumbled as he headed for the door.

"Do you want me to pack you a lunch?"

He clamped his hat on. "No. I don't want anything." Without another word, he left the house.

She stared after him. Would he prefer she wasn't here when he got back tonight? Was he angry with her? After all, if she hadn't turned her head when he kissed her on the cheek, maybe things wouldn't have turned out the same way.

Warmth invaded her cheeks as she thought of something else. Maybe he was afraid she would insist he make an honest woman of her. She slammed the plates into the sink. Well he needn't worry. The last thing she wanted was a reluctant husband. If he wanted to forget it had ever happened, so much the better. It shouldn't have - and it never would again.