Page 9 (1/1)

Approaching the porch stairway, his eyes caught sight of Hayley, and he fought the urge to whistle She was more beautiful and her features werethan he remembered

"Do not be concerned, I won't bite" Her eyes sparkled Austin's big sotten her

Maddie rose fro

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 e to look at Austin

"He is not here for entertainentle

"A drink is far fro," 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 assue, Austin reached out his hand to help her climb into it

Austin se, climbed up and sat down

Hayley cleared her throat and spoke "Mr Soency "My father has requested that I coive Miss Hawthornthe affairs of our hoht to keep a s

"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 la teased "If you do not wish to deliver ive it another thought" She turned and walked briskly toward the house

"What tiht 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