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Page 151
sitive. Like now, when he'd anticipated her need of someplace to stay for the night.
Finally, unable to stand the silence any longer, she began, "I wanted" at the same time as he said, "One day soon" They both stopped.
"You first," she said. She tossed her head nervously to get the hair out of her eyes.
"No, you." There was a hint of amusement in the softening of his strong features, the barest quirk upward at the edges of his well-defined lips.
"Now that Holly is feeling better, I could ask again if the Raffertys could take me tomorrow, so I won't be in your way."
"You still can't go," he stated, his expression hardening. She felt herself brighten. Did he actually want her to stay? But then he continued, "They already told you they haven't room."
"Oh. That's right." What a dummy she was, she told herself, for imagining he'd care whether she stayed or left. She looked down toward the planks of the wooden floor. This room was dustier than the one next door; she'd have to give it a good cleaning soon. If she were given time out from her chores for business of her own.
At least, with Holly improving, René and she both could work at the same time.
She remembered then. "What were you going to say before?" she asked Thorn.
"Just that, one of these days soon, I'll have need for some trade goods. If I go to Harrigan's, you may come along."
"Thanks," she said, her voice low. He would hate the idea that she was relying on him yet again.
He had to pass her to reach the door to the room. As his arm brushed hers, he stopped.
The point of contact tingled, spreading a current of heated awareness through her.
She recalled the times they'd touched before. The kisses he had plied her with so passionately. She closed her eyes, afraid he'd try it again.
Afraid he wouldn't.

 
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