“Phoebe…” he said softly. “What is it, honey? Why do ya look so sad?”
Her eyes misted. She had to get out of here. “I’m fine.” She glanced around. “I need to get home.”
“All right.” He looked around and snapped his fingers. Their waitress hurried over. “Check, please.” Braxton paid, and they retrieved their coats and belongings before stepping outside.
“Are you not feeling well?” he asked.
“I have things to do, that’s all.” Like putting distance between herself and Braxton Jones before she lost any more of her heart.
He wrapped her arm through his and started down the sidewalk. “I’m sorry it’s a bit of a walk from here.” He smiled. “But not to worry.” He waved down a horse and buggy.
“A cab?” she said. “You don’t have to…”
“I know you have a new coat, but I don’t want you walking so far.”
The driver pulled up, and Braxton helped her climb in. Once they were settled, he gave the man her address, and the horse started forward.
Phoebe had to admit, it beat walking. Even better, snow began to fall. She was more grateful than ever for the ride. “Thank you.”
“Of course, darlin’.”
Her heart fluttered at the endearment. Why did he have to be so wonderful?
When they reached her boarding house, he helped her down and walked her to the door. “Thank you, Braxton. That was very kind of you.”
He smiled down at her. “Do you have plans?”
“For…?”
“Tomorrow. Sunday?”
“Oh, I, uh, need to get some things done.”
“I see.” He studied her. “Then I won’t see you until Monday?”
“I suppose not.” She fidgeted.
So did he. She’d never seen Braxton fidget before. Instead of unsettling her, it made him look like a schoolboy waiting for something he couldn’t quite name.
He met her gaze. “Well… I should go.”
Phoebe nodded, not trusting herself to speak. If she did, she might invite him in to warm up a bit. She wasn’t sure how Mr. Randall would feel about that, even if Braxton had done the same for her at his boarding house.
She hesitated, then said, “Can I ask you something?”
“Sure, honey.”
“Why are you staying at a boarding house instead of a hotel?”
Braxton shrugged. “I like the homey feel better. I always choose a nice boarding house over a fancy hotel.”
“That makes sense.” She glanced at the door. “Well…” She motioned with her thumb. “Good night.”
He stepped closer. “Good night, Phoebe.” His eyes locked with hers, and her knees nearly gave out. Braxton smiled, reached past her, and opened the door. “In you go.”
She gave him a shy smile and stepped inside. He returned the look, then gently closed the door.
Phoebe released a long breath and leaned her back against the door. “What am I going to do?”
