A Searching Heart (29 page)

Relief washed all through Virginia. “You're coming back?” she said weakly.

He reached for his hat and twisted it round in his hands. He seemed suddenly nervous. Thoughtful. He looked over at her, his gaze holding hers.

“I'm coming back.” His words held promise. Silence for one long, anxious moment. Virginia felt her heart race as she wondered if—

He lifted his eyes, which seemed to be eager, yet pleading. “I . . . I had rather hoped that . . . that when I do, you'd allow me the privilege of calling—more officially, you know.”

Virginia's breath caught in her throat. He had asked to call. To court her. He would be back. Soon, her heart hoped.

She looked at him and gave him an encouraging smile as her racing heart responded with joy-filled leaps.

“I'd like that,” she said simply, but her eyes told him she could hardly wait.