The Reluctant Bride Read Online Free

anyone but Cory,” Anita said.
    â€œWell, the upside of losing your job is that now you’ll have plenty of time to spend with him.”
    Anita nodded. “I’m tired of us being apart. Maybe I can find new employment up north. Married people shouldn’t be separated for such long periods.”
    Karinne said nothing. She’d often thought the same thing, as had Max. But Max couldn’t quit his job, and she didn’t want to quit hers. Besides, Jeff Cavanaugh had heart problems and had no other family around, so she felt obliged to stay close to him. Both Karinne and his doctor knew Jeff didn’t take his medication regularly. Whether it was due to forgetfulness or a deliberate attempt to keep his daughter’s attention, the result was the same.
    â€œHey, where’s your ring?” Anita asked curiously.
    â€œMy diamond? At home. I felt it would be safer.” At the last minute, Karinne had removed it—and packed the pink sweatshirt.
    â€œIt seems strange to see you without it. In fact, with your jobs, I don’t know how you two ever got engaged. Good thing you were childhood sweethearts.”
    Karinne frowned at the old-fashioned term. “Not really.” Her love for Max was based on deep trust since childhood, not some clichéd idea like that.
    â€œHow would you describe it, then?” Anita teased.
    â€œCall it destiny, and leave it at that,” Karinne said lightly. “Max and I grew into each other. He’s the man for me.” Karinne darted a quick glance at her friend. “But we all can’t be as lucky as you and Cory, the perfect couple. Even miles apart, you’re happy.”
    â€œWe’re not perfect,” Anita said. “And I am happy. But I’d be happier if I could be with him all the time.”
    â€œSo would I. With Max, I mean.” She and Max were at a stalemate about the subject of one of them relocating. Karinne appreciated that Max loved his job, but so did she. Not only that, Jeff was too ill to be moved, or, at least, claimed he was.
    She remembered their argument the last time she’d postponed the wedding.
    â€œYou’re using your father as an excuse, Karinne. With his heart, he should be in an assisted-care facility. Your living at home is no substitute for professional care.”
    â€œHe’d be miserable at some nursing home!”
    â€œHe’d have a fuller, healthier life than he does right now. We can move him up near us if you want. And no—” he held up a hand when she would have protested “—he isn’t too ill to be moved. He just says that because he doesn’t want to leave his home. But it’s time, and his doctor agrees,” Max insisted.
    â€œHow would you like giving up your home?” Karinne countered.
    â€œIf I had to, I hope I would do it gracefully. But that’s not the issue. You know how hard Cory and I have worked to make our concession a success. Do you want me to give it up when I’ve finally become profitable? And ruin Cory’s finances in the process?”
    â€œNo, but—”
    â€œI’m not trying to be heartless, Karinne. But Cory and I still have to make a living. Support our families, if we have any. You were the one who wanted Jeff to see his grandchildren,” he reminded her.
    Karinne flushed. “I know.”
    That last argument had convinced her to take the week off and spend more time with Max. Their weekends were usually filled with loving reunions in bed, and lately talking seemed to make things worse. Now Anita and Cory were coming along—but it was Cory’s business, too.
    â€œWell, all four of us will be together this weekend,” Anita continued. “I’m glad you don’t mind me tagging along. If you need privacy, just let us know. Maybe we can split up into pairs. I can catch a mule down with Cory,” Anita suggested. “I’ve never ridden a