A Headstrong Woman(46)

“Could I offer you tea or coffee?” Alexandria turned to Tristan.

“No, I have business to see to in town, but I wanted to check on you. The sheriff came by my place after leaving yours yesterday and I understand you had a scare.”

“I did, but I’m alright, I assure you,” she offered.

“I’m glad to know it. I tell you, our town isn’t as safe as it used to be; it worries me some,” Tristan’s gaze was dark.

“It does seem to be getting worse,” Alexandria acknowledged.

“I know that you have friends and family watching out for you, Mrs. Morris, but as your closet neighbor, I want you to know that you can call on me anytime. Neighbors have to look out for each other if a community is going to be safe.”

Alexandria had to bite back a frown. Why was everyone suddenly worried about her?

“I’m glad to know I can count on my neighbors,” she offered instead of the sharp comeback she wanted to hand him.

“I won’t keep you, just remember I’m nearby if you need help.”

“Thank you, Mr. Price,” Alexandria rose to see him out. She turned from the door and shook her head at the two visits she had just received.

“Who was here?” Anna asked as Alexandria entered the kitchen.

“Lane stopped in and then Tristan Price before Lane had even excused himself,” Alexandria’s expression was baffled as she fixed herself a cup of coffee.

“What did they want?” Anna turned from where she was punching down a loaf of bread.

“To check on me apparently,” Alexandria shrugged a dismissal.

“You look exhausted,” Anna noted as she took in the circles under her sister’s eyes.

“I am tired,” Alexandria admitted.

“So go take a nap.”

“No, no I think I’ll just read for a while. I can’t remember the last time I picked up a book other than one of Lilly’s story books.” Alexandria turned and made her way to the parlor to make herself comfortable with one of her favorite books.





Jonathon approached the house that evening; he was wondering if Alexandria had actually rested or if she had worked the day away inside. He had never met a woman as stubborn as that one was. He mounted the back porch and tapped on the door; a moment later Anna let him into the house.

“Hello, Mr. Stewart, if you’re looking for Alexandria, she’s reading in the parlor,” Anna offered.

Jonathon nodded; reading was good.

“Thank you, Ms. Cannon.” Jonathon made his way to the parlor and stopped in the doorway.

Alexandria lay curled on her side; the book she had been reading was sandwiching one hand. She had obviously fallen asleep while reading. He crossed the room quietly and gently tugged the book free. Pride and Prejudice the spine read; Jonathon smiled. He had suspected that despite all her bravado Alexandria had a romantic side; Jane Austin novels were proof. He laid the book aside and claimed a throw from a nearby chair to spread over Alexandria. She looked peaceful, free from the strain and worry that too frequently lined her young face. Jonathon reached forward and smoothed a stray curl from her cheek before he even realized he intended to do it. He watched her shift lightly before settling back in and he turned to leave the room as quietly as he had entered.

“She’s sound asleep,” Jonathon announced when he entered the kitchen.

“Good, she needs some rest,” Anna nodded.

“I was afraid she would find work to do in the house,” Jonathon admitted as he accepted the drink he was offered.

“She was tempted to; I could tell,” Anna grinned as she shared this.

“I imagine,” Jonathon smiled in return.

Anna had to drop her gaze when he smiled; it tied her up inside.

“Did you ladies have a quiet day?”

“We did. Alexandria had a couple of visitors though.”

“Really? Who if you don’t mind my asking?”

“Lane and Tristan Price from next door,” Anna answered his query.

“She’s not even aware that they’re interested in her is she?” Jonathon asked.

“No she isn’t.” Anna’s smile was sad this time.

“Why is that, Ms. Cannon?”

Anna sighed and after checking on the bread in the oven and making sure Millie had the vegetables under control, seated herself at the table. Lilly was busy fussing over a dolly at her small doll highchair in the corner.