The Spinster (Emerson Pass Historicals 2)

“And you must ask for whatever you need,” Theo said. “Our families are forever united. Don’t forget that, all right?”

“I won’t make that mistake again,” Shannon said.

“Did Josephine tell you about the party?” Flynn asked.

“Yes.” Shannon’s eyes sparkled. “Something to look forward to, even though I have nothing to wear.”

“You could wear what you have on,” Flynn said. “You look fine to me.”

She flushed and gave him a shy smile. “Flynn Barnes, have you become charming in your older years?”

“Haven’t I always been charming?” He grinned, still staring at her.

“I seem to recall an incident with a frog in my lunch pail.”

“That wasn’t me, I swear,” Flynn said.

“It was definitely him,” Theo said.

“We’ll have to settle this later,” Shannon said. “I’ve housework to do. Good luck this afternoon. Please don’t hesitate to knock if you need anything.” She bobbed her head, then slid back into the house.

“I can’t believe that’s little Shannon Cassidy,” Flynn said, shaking his head. “All grown up.”

Isak nudged Flynn’s shoulder. “You might’ve been a little obvious.”

“Nah, I’m charming. Didn’t you hear her say that?” Flynn asked.

We all laughed as we traipsed down the stairs and headed back to work.

In the late afternoon, we called it a day, all of us wanting to get home before dark. The Olofsson brothers left together in their sleigh for town. I was about to take off with the twins when horses appeared on the horizon.

“It’s Josephine,” Flynn said.

“Who wants to bet it’s not one of us that she’s come for?” Theo said.

“I’ll take that bet,” Flynn said.

“She’s teaching me how to drive,” I said, sheepishly.

“Sure, that’s the reason,” Flynn said.

“Enjoy your drive,” Theo said.

They got into their sleigh and were off, passing Josephine in the driveway.

She came to a halt in front of me. “I thought you might fancy a drive. It’s such a lovely afternoon.”

“You know my answer will always be yes,” I said as I climbed in beside her.

The sun was low in the sky, making gold streaks between the trees as we set off down the driveway.

“Let’s go home through the meadow,” she said.

“Sure.”

We chatted for a few minutes about the barn and our progress. I made her laugh by describing Flynn’s reaction to Shannon.

“Do you think they could be a love match?” she asked, sounding incredulous.