Vera's Turn For Love by Tamela Hancock Murray

Author:Tamela Hancock Murray
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Barbour Publishing, Inc.
Published: 2013-08-18T16:00:00+00:00

Twelve

Moments later, a free man, Byron whistled as he made his way across the generous foyer of the Estes home. He crossed the threshold, his waiting horse in sight.

Rolling his glance to the sidewalk, he slowed his pace when he realized that someone else awaited, too.

Daisy’s father.

The large fellow, dressed in the suit he had worn during his day of toil in the office, lumbered toward him, a smile covering his countenance.

“Byron!” he boomed when he caught up to him on the porch steps. “There you are, my boy. I was wondering how long it would take for you to show your handsome mug around here.”

Byron tipped his hat. “Good afternoon, Mr. Estes.”

Mr. Estes drew closer. “Have you seen Daisy?”

“Yes, sir. She’s looking lovely as usual.”

“Of course she is! Now do my eyes deceive me, or does it look like you’re trying to make a beeline for the street?” the older man queried.

“I’m due home for dinner soon.”

“Nonsense! You’re having dinner with us.”

“Thank you, sir, but not this evening—”

“What’s the matter? A big slab of roast beef isn’t good enough for you anymore?” He let out a laugh as hearty as the portion of meat he suggested.

“Oh no, roast beef sounds delicious.”

“Well then, there’s no reason for you not to stay—if you can stand all the talk that’s bound to be happening about the wedding. My womenfolk do like to chatter.”

“About that—”

He slapped Byron on the back. “I know, I know. But women get excited about these things. After dinner we can sneak into the library for a nice glass of port, eh?”

“Really, I can’t.” Byron looked toward the street.

Daisy’s father tugged Byron’s sleeve, leading him into the house. “If you’re worried about your mother, I’ll have Lester send word.” He called out Lester’s name.

“Please. Don’t. I really, really can’t stay.”

Mr. Estes’s face took on an expression of regret. “So you honestly do have plans for this evening? Tomorrow night, then.”

“No, not tomorrow night, either.”

Daisy joined them. “Daddy. I thought I heard you.”

He hugged Daisy with one arm. “My little muffin. How was your day? Wonderful, I’m sure, now that your intended is back from the country.”

Byron sent Daisy a look. She shot one back. In spite of his reluctance, he knew the time had come to set things straight once and for all with the Estes family. Surely Daisy’s father would take disappointment better with Byron present rather than Silas.

“What’s this?” Mr. Estes asked. “Do I sense a little tension in the air? A lovers’ spat? Well, you have all evening to make amends. This, too, shall pass.”

“No, Daddy, we didn’t have a spat. Byron and I are still the best of friends.”

“More than friends, I hope.”

“Daddy, please come with us and sit in the parlor.” Daisy’s mouth was set in a firm line.

Her father looked at them both quizzically but complied. Byron sent Daisy an approving, if worried, look. The idea of being sure her father was seated when he heard the news seemed like a good one.

“So what is this about?” Mr.

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