Tangled Hearts by Barbara McMahon

Author:Barbara McMahon [McMahon, Barbara]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: The Harts of Texas Book 2
Publisher: Barbara McMahon
Published: 2016-11-13T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seven

“The bathroom is yours,” Brianna said as she came into the kitchen the next morning. She refused to look at Jake, though she could see he wore a shirt this morning. She'd packed her bag and set it by the front door. Her jacket and hat were on top. She was ready to leave as soon as they finished eating.

Operating on autopilot, she refused to dwell on anything. She had her whole future to think. Today she just wanted to get home.

She went through the motions of cooking oatmeal, setting the table and pouring the coffee as if in a trance. She only had a little longer, then she’d be free. Free of the need to watch every word, every gesture, lest she give herself away. Free of the constant hunger to touch him, listen to him, look at him. Free of the heartache that threatened to drown her.

Hearing the shower, she paused for a moment as she realized sadly their time of playing house was coming to an end. However brief, for the most part it had been interesting. She drew out the list of items she’d made and set it at his place. Whether he implemented her ideas or not, she no longer cared. She wouldn't be coming back to the cabin.

They were silent as Jake drove back to Texarkana. The highway had been cleared and they made good time. He pulled up before her house and turned off the engine.

“Let me go in first to check things out to make sure the place is secure,” he said, opening his door.

She nodded, then alighted. Reaching for her bag, she gave him her key. Her chin held high, she led the way up the snowy walk. She’d have to shovel it later. It would give her something to do.

Opening the door, Jake walked in while Brianna stood to one side, waiting. His sweep was brief. He returned and paused beside her. “No sign of any unlawful entry,” he said formally.

“Thank you, Officer. I appreciate your help.” She stepped inside and pushed the door shut. He caught it before it closed all the way and held it a moment.

“I’ll pick you up in the morning and take you to the college. When your car’s ready, I’ll give you a ride to pick it up.”

“That’s not necessary, but thank you. I have friends—”

“I’ll pick you up in the morning.” His hard tone brooked no refusal.

She swallowed. “Very well.” Pushing on the door this time shut it. She stood for a long moment, listening as he started his car and drove away.

Fortunately, she had plenty to do. It kept thought at bay. She worked on lesson plans, shoveled the walk and visited briefly with her neighbors. Life had returned to normal.

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