She had a soft and gentle manner with his niece and nephew. Her youthful enthusiasm refreshed his sagging spirits. He thrilled at the idea of sharing a meal with Amanda. He had his suspicions about why she’d invited herself. Amanda would rather dine at the almshouse than volunteer a moment of her time with him. She wanted something. But what? He mused over this while setting out for Reeves’ store in the wagon, the children in the back. Amanda waited outside, her pretty face alight with anticipation, as if they were courting and he came to formally call. Bitterness closed his throat. He could consider such pleasantries if she were not such a fervent British Tory more apt to put his neck in a noose instead of placing his ring on her finger. Jeffrey set the brake and jumped down. He helped her up, sharply aware of the softness of her bare arm against his palm. He climbed up and flicked the reins with more force than necessary. Amanda kept her hands folded neatly upon her lap. “Did you complete all your business in town?”
