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It was after six She wouldn't have et ready before Kurt arrived

"I' to have to skip dessert if I want to be ready when Kurt gets here," she declared

"But I've done your favorite," Ruth protested "Fresh strawberries and baking powder biscuits with thick cream from the Johanson farm"

Alanna griretfully "Save "

"You shouldn't be eating dessert for breakfast," Ruth said in a disapproving tone

"Why not? It isn't any different fro fresh fruit and toast," she teased

Cleaning her plate, she asked to be excused and hurried to her room By the tied, Kurt was already there She could hear hi to her mother as she came down the stairs Her father stepped out of the library and paused when he saw her His serious expression softened at the sight of her

"You look lovely, Alanna" Dorian Poalked to the foot of the stairs tothe aave to her eyes "Even if I am a bit prejudiced it's still the truth"

"Thank you, daddy" She kissed hi roo?"

"No more than five minutes, but once he sees you he won't"TellMatthews? Should I be in there interrogating him like a future father-in-law?"

Twice in one day—first her mother and now her father! Alanna couldn't believe it She laughed with a trace of bewilderment,

"You're as bad ase to finish yet"

Pain flickered briefly in his eyes "Of course you do," he repeated, a chagrined s his mouth "Your mother and I are just naturally anxious to know that your future is secure, that there's someone around ill love you and look after you the e do"

"I'ently

"I know that, honey," her father nodded "But I guess parents always think about their daughter getting ood home for her To me, Rolt's brother seeent and I know Rolt will always look out for his interests"