was all that Tilly had said the moment they’d spotted Shane seated on the high front seat of the buggy, driving two of the draft horses kept for farm work up to the house. “I know I promised to drive, but with the roads in a worse condition than ever, I just don’t feel up to it.” “It’s all right. I have set my mind to endure the man.” Meredith had closed the front door behind them, seized her sewing basket and clomped down the steps into the cold rain. Framed by a silent, steel-gray sky, he’d tipped his hat at her as solemn as a judge except for the mischief sparkling in his eyes of midnight blue. Mama had waved them off with dire warnings about the road conditions. The moment Shane extended his hand to her to help her onto the seat beside him, summer washed over her. She settled her skirts, taking care to smooth the blue flannel fabric so it wouldn’t wrinkle. When Shane leaned close to tuck a warm blanket over her, she took the length of wool from him and tucked it in herself.
