The Ties That Bind by Amelia C. Adams

Author:Amelia C. Adams [Adams, Amelia C.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-01-10T06:00:00+00:00

Peter had just inserted the key into the lock of his office door when he heard a voice call out his name. He turned to see Toby Johnson coming up the road toward him, and he lifted his hand in greeting.

“Hello there,” he said, reaching out to shake Toby’s hand. “I haven’t seen you in a little while—all the wedding planning, I suppose.”

“No, actually,” Toby replied. “The women have got that well under control, and any time I ask about it, I’m told that I’m being a nuisance. I’m spending my time finishing the cabin.”

“Wise choice.” Peter opened the door and invited his friend to follow him inside. “I’ve been wanting to come by and see if you need any help, but I’ve just taken on a few new clients, and that’s pretty much eliminated my free time.”

“That’s all right. Hugh and Asher Spencer have been coming over, and between the three of us, we’re making good progress. Might even have a roof on the place before the wedding.”

“That’s good. I’ve heard that brides like having roofs on their houses. Something about not getting rained on—I think it’s a bit persnickety myself, but who am I to judge?”

Toby laughed. “Yes, I’ll make sure the roof’s done. Smart aleck.”

Peter laughed too, leaning back in his chair and regarding his friend. “So, things are going well between you and Miriam? I mean, you’re working everything out?”

Toby shook his head and blew out a breath at the same time. “Yes, mostly. It’s been difficult, though—I won’t lie to you. She carries a lot of heartache about her parents’ deaths, and every so often, she asks me to reassure her that I’m not going anywhere. She still puts up walls when she feels vulnerable, and I’m learning when to give her space and when to step closer. And she’s learning how to deal with all my quirks as well—I’m sure I’m a joy to be around every minute.”

“But all this hard work has been worth it?” Peter asked.

“Every single second, and I know I’ll feel that way twelve times over once we’re married,” Toby replied. “Love isn’t easy, but it’s the most valuable thing we have, and it’s worth fighting for.” He tilted his head to the side. “Why do I get the feeling you’re not just asking out of idle curiosity?”

“Because . . . well, you know my history where romance is concerned,” Peter began.

“Or your absolute lack of history? Yes, I’m very familiar,” Toby interrupted.

Peter ignored him. When it came to Toby, that was often the best course of action. “I met a pretty woman at Miriam’s homecoming party—Scarlett Carlson. I spoke to her for a moment and found her intelligent and kind as well as pretty. I’d hoped to get to know her better—then I learned she has children, and I assumed she was married. But I found out yesterday that she’s actually a widow, and I haven’t been able to get her out of my mind ever since.”

“I see. And

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