Approaching the porch stairway, his eyes caught sight of Hayley, and he fought the urge to whistle. She was more beautiful and her features were more vivid and captivating than he remembered.
"Do not be concerned, I won't bite." Her eyes sparkled. Austin's big smile told her he had not forgotten her.
Maddie rose from the swing and picked up her bag.
As she descended the porch stairs, Austin reached for the bag as they greeted each other. As they walked to the carriage, Hayley ran down to Maddie and grabbed her by the arm. "Must you leave immediately? He has come all this way, and must surely be thirsty." She resisted the urge to look at Austin.
"He is not here for entertainment, Hayley." Her voice was gentle.
"A drink is far from entertaining," she shot back.
"Do not torture yourself." She touched Hayley's cheek softly, and continued toward the waiting carriage.
Hayley pressed in. "You should not assume to understand my intentions."
"I have assumed nothing."
As Maddie reached the carriage, Austin reached out his hand to help her climb into it.
Austin smiled at Hayley, walked to the other side of the carriage, climbed up and sat down.
Hayley cleared her throat and spoke. "Mr. Sommers?"
Her expression displayed a serious urgency. "My father has requested that I come to your estate rather frequently, to give Miss Hawthorn messages concerning the affairs of our home." She saw Maddie's eyes sparkled as she fought to keep a smile from forming.
"Is that so, Miss Lawrence?" Austin picked up the horse's reins.
"He had wanted to speak with you, regarding your driving me; however, he has left for the afternoon."
"Is your horse lame?" He smirked.
She hated being teased. "If you do not wish to deliver me, on Sunday afternoons, Mr. Sommers, do not give it another thought." She turned and walked briskly toward the house.
"What time in the afternoon should I not give thought to, Miss Lawrence?" His voice rose in volume as she walked away.
"Three o'clock!" She yelled, and did not turn to watch them leave.