Free Because of Rebecca by Leanne Tyler Page B

their last meeting had been strained, and he wondered what had changed.
    “We’ve already had breakfast,” Rebecca explained.
    “But coffee would be nice,” Josephine added.
    “Certainly,” he agreed, offering her his hand again.
    After Jared had helped them both descend, Rebecca fished in her purse for some coins and paid the driver. “Can you return for us in a few hours?”
    “That isn’t necessary,” Jared said. “I can have Higgins drive you and your aunt back to town.”
    “We wouldn’t want to impose,” Josephine interjected.
    “I insist.” Jared offered Rebecca his arm.
    “Thank you, Mr. Hollingsworth,” her aunt said and followed them up the walk to the verandah.
    Mary appeared at the front door as they approached. Despite her smile, she looked flustered. “I began to wonder where you got off to, Mr. Hollingsworth. Your guests are waiting.”
    Jared nodded. “Please set two more places, Mary. Miss Davis and her aunt will be joining us. If you’ll excuse me ladies, I must wash up.”
    “It’s a pleasure to see you again, Miss Davis,” Mary said, and showed them into the dining room. “Girls, Doctor Gordon, we’ve got two more additions to breakfast. Miss Davis and her aunt.”
    “Good morning, Doctor Gordon,” Rebecca greeted. She glanced at her aunt who had stopped in the doorway and just stared. Slowly Josephine reached up and touched the back of her neck before coming into the room. Twin patches of color bloomed in her cheeks.
    “Miss Davis, Miss Davis.” Doctor Gordon stood and bowed to them both. “How is Lucas fairing today?”
    “Better, the rash is almost gone. He’s also stopped fretting so much,” Rebecca said, taking the chair the doctor pulled out for her. “Thank you.”
    “My pleasure,” he said, pulling out a chair for Josephine.
    She quickened her pace to the table, allowing him to seat her. “Thank you,” she murmured.
    “You’re welcome,” he said, returning to his seat. “I’m glad to hear Lucas is doing so well. I’ll drop by this afternoon to see him if you don’t mind.”
    “Certainly,” Rebecca agreed. “How’s Isabella doing?”
    “I left her resting.” He turned his attention to Josephine. “How’s the ladies’ auxiliary work going?”
    “Very well. I’ve almost finished the front panel of one quilt. Mrs. Thackeray is doing the back.”
    Rebecca watched the interchange between her aunt and the doctor. Josephine was actually smiling at the man.
    Oh my goodness. She’s flirting with him.
    Fascinated, Rebecca watched the exchange between the two. Awareness dawned and she understood the many subtle changes in her aunt’s appearance. The new hairstyle, the new dresses and even the softening of her posture was because of Doctor Gordon. She hid her smile for fear they’d notice her observing them. She couldn’t wait to tell their maid.

Chapter Seven
    Ancil Gordon found himself enthralled with the bewitching woman sitting across from him at the breakfast table. His first impression of Josephine Davis had not been favorable when he rushed to the Bakersfield hotel when they met. He’d found her prim and extremely tense. In fact, looking back, he’d have to say his behavior toward her had been downright rude. Yet, something he’d said must have made an impression to cause such a remarkable transformation in her.
    He now saw a beguiling creature he couldn’t take his eyes off. The tension around her mouth was no longer evident and her harsh expressions had softened. She smiled and her violet eyes twinkled. She laughed and his weary heart beat with a new passion.
    He found his reaction to her startling. Instead of putting distance between them, he wanted to draw her near. He wanted to learn what had made her frosty cocoon melt away.
    “I’m glad you’re enjoying your service to the ladies’ auxiliary,” he said, lifting the coffee cup. He took a slow sip and watched her over the rim.
    She poured cream and sugar in her cup. “A finer