Morgan felt as out of place as an armless man in a milking contest. What a bad idea to help the women. He should have gone with the reverend or worked in his office. “Is this the biggest plant to move?”
When Casey affirmed his question, he glanced about. “I’ll get this corn-looking plant outside, and then you can tell me what I need to do next.”
Casey sighed and smiled. He wanted to put that pleasure on her face for the rest of her life. “I think that’s a splendid idea. We should pull out Sarah’s mattress and replace it with the one I used.”
She walked with him to the front porch, where she pointed to the perfect spot for the plant. “Thank you. I thought my back would break in two.”
“You could ease the pain in my heart by agreeing to marry me.” He regretted the words the moment they left his lips.
“I can’t.” She fussed with a brown spot on one of the leaves. “I can’t even talk about it until all of this is over.”
Why can’t I keep my mouth shut? Casey wrestled with the nightmares that he wanted to destroy. “I’m sorry. Leave it to me to spoil a good morning.”
“Nonsense. You made it a wonderful morning.”
But he didn’t believe her. Casey was slipping through his fingers, and all he could do was watch.
*****
Casey watched Morgan walk toward the shed in back of the parsonage. Her heart ached for what she could not give. She wanted to say what he craved to hear, but she couldn’t. She tarried awhile, examining the rosebushes and pulling a weed here and there. Appreciative notes needed to be written to those who’d brought food. Housework awaited her attention. Sarah’s room had to be aired. She didn’t feel like accomplishing any of it, but it had to be done. Praise God, Jocelyn and Bonnie were there to help.
She blinked and allowed a tear to slip onto her cheek. She wished folks wouldn’t question her about setting a wedding date. No one really understood her reluctance to get married. No one sympathized with her but Sarah. Granted, Morgan was a changed man, and he never seemed to tire in proving his devotion to her. His efforts made her feel guilty of the doubts plaguing her mind, but she simply could not agree to marry him until her misgivings were gone. Not a day passed without a reflection upon Sarah’s last words of advice. God always answered prayer, and Casey simply needed to listen . . . and wait.
When all the plants had found new homes and Sarah’s clothes were sorted, Jocelyn and Bonnie chose to clean Sarah’s room while Casey cleaned the kitchen.
The sound of Morgan’s voice diverted her attention. He waved and made his way toward her. She stepped onto the front porch, and her pulse raced at the sight of him. Some things never changed. She didn’t understand her own emotions. How could she want something and be afraid of it at the same time?
“I’m ready for digging fence posts or whatever you need.” The late morning sun picked up the light in his eyes—filled with love for her. Yes, she did love him dearly.
“I know of a farmer who needs a new barn. Looks like a lovely day for a barn raising, doesn’t it?” she said.
“Yes, but I’m powerful hungry. I’ve worked hard this morning.”
She picked up her skirts and made her way to his side.
Morgan leaned against the front gate. “Do I smell coffee? Is there any of that apple cobbler left?”
“Morgan Andrews, you haven’t helped me carry out the old mattress yet. I think you’re trying to get out of a little work.”
Shock spread over his face. “I wouldn’t think of it. Why, when it comes to your coffee, I’d ride halfway around the world.”
“So what’s your price to finish up the work here?”
“A cup of coffee, a big bowl of apple cobbler with fresh cream, and a hug.” He reminded her of a schoolboy reciting his lessons.
“You certainly know how to try a woman’s patience.”
“That’s my price.” His grin looked permanent.
She tried to glare at him, but she laughed instead.
“You’re beautiful when you’re angry.” He touched his hand to her cheek. “But you always look beautiful.”
“Thank you.”
“And I love you.”
How long had it been since she’d told him she loved him? She took a deep breath. “I love you, too.” But I’m not ready to get married.