He took a step back, forcing himself to turn away. He should find the cloths he’d brought out to help dry the foal.
Best he get to work so his heart didn’t lead him down another painful trail.
CHAPTER 19
Mandie took another bite of her boiled oats as the brothers’ conversation drifted around her. These had turned out better than she’d expected.
Yesterday—the morning after Willow’s foaling—she’d come into the kitchen to find a hot skillet of cornbread cooling on the back of the stove, a pot of beans soaking in cold water, and a note on the counter from Enoch. Rather, a recipe, written in his bold hand, with instructions on how to make the cornbread herself and how to cook the beans.
Last evening, she’d found another note with instructions on boiling oats, which he mentioned in the postscript at the bottom of the recipe was a favorite of his brothers too.
He’d avoided speaking to her though, unless absolutely necessary. And then, he wouldn’t look at her.
Had she done something wrong in that kiss? Responded too fervently? The thought made her neck heat, and she took another bite of her oats.
James’s voice cut through her thoughts. “Enoch, you said something about checking on the herd in the north pasture?”
Enoch cleared his throat. “I’ll ride out after breakfast. Check on that herd of cattle we moved last week.”
Mandie’s heart leapt. Did she dare ask? She so desperately needed air, space, a chance to clear her head. Being cooped up in the house with only her thoughts was driving her batty.
She lifted her gaze to his, trying to read the guarded expression in those piercing blue eyes.
“Could I…could I come with you?” The words tumbled out before she could second-guess herself. “I would love some fresh air.”
Enoch’s fork paused halfway to his mouth, his gaze snapping to hers. Surprise flicked across his face. “I don’t know if that’s a good idea.”
Mandie swallowed hard, her throat dry. “Please. I’m feeling cooped up and restless. I promise I won’t be any trouble.”
Enoch’s jaw tightened, and for a moment, he looked like he would refuse. But then he sighed, setting down his fork. “All right. But we’ll need to leave soon if we want to be back before dark.”
Relief washed through her, followed by a flutter of anticipation. A day alone with Enoch, away from the tension of the house... It would either be awkward or wonderful. Probably both.
She quickly finished her breakfast and started to gather the used dishes from the table.
Robert stood and waved her away. “My turn for clean-up today. You go get ready.” He sent a look Enoch’s way. “If I know my brother, he’ll be ready to ride out in a few minutes.”
Enoch didn’t voice a response, and she didn’t check his expression, just thanked Robert and went to change into her split skirt and boots.
As she braided her hair tightly, she caught sight of her reflection in the small mirror. Her cheeks were flushed, her eyes bright. She looked…excited. Happy, even.
Somehow, Enoch already had two horses saddled and waiting in front of the house when she stepped outside.
He didn’t look at her as she descended from the porch, simply turned to the sorrel and moved around to her side. “This is Rosie. She taught Thomas how to ride, so she should be gentle enough.”
In other words, he assumed she would be a novice.
“I’m sure I’ll manage.” Mandie kept her tone light as she reached for the reins. She’d ridden horses since childhood, though always sidesaddle. Her skills might be a bit rusty, and she’d never ridden astride, but she could handle a horse.
She smiled and thanked him as he helped boost her into the saddle. Let him think her a beginner if it would make him speak to her.
She settled onto Rosie’s back, and the mare shifted, finding her balance with the added weight. Mandie automatically tightened her thighs, but forced herself to relax. Riding astride felt odd at first, but the freedom of movement was wonderful.
As she settled into the saddle, Enoch mounted his own horse, a sturdy black gelding. He glanced over at her, seeming to check her seat and hand position. Apparently satisfied, he loosened his reins and started off at an easy walk.
They rode in silence for a while, the only sounds those of horse hooves clacking on stone and the creaking of leather.
She searched for something to say, some neutral topic to break the tension, but her mind went blank. All she could think about was the last time they’d been alone together…that kiss. The way Enoch’s lips had felt on hers, the heat of his body pressed close.
