He tipped his hat again, forcing Sarah to look at him once more.
"It's been a pleasure, ma'am. The last time we met, I never really got the chance to visit with you. In fact, we didn't even exchange names. I'm glad to see you haven't moved on."
Sarah stared, dumbstruck. "I don't remember ever meeting you before." But that voice...
"Reckon I was a bit hard on the eyes then, and you were preoccupied with other matters." He paused and took off his hat, running long, tapered fingers along its brim. "I helped you bury your brother."
Sarah winced. She didn't like being reminded of that day for several reasons, and one of them stood before her. It had taken her several weeks to forget this man and the strange effect he'd had on her. His kindness had made her uncomfortably aware of her vulnerability. Gazing into his deep brown eyes now, she experienced the same startling connection and glanced away quickly.
"I'm sorry I didn't recognize you. You were a great help that day, and I want to thank you again for assisting me when no one else would." She gazed out into the distance.
"I reckon it's hard losing a loved one, but--"
"You don't need to say it. I understand. So what brings you back to Banjo, Mr. Nolan?"
He stroked his mustache. "A pretty filly with deep-blue eyes."
She relaxed and wondered what girl had caught the eye of such a handsome man. "She'll be a lucky lady, I think."
"I hope she'll think so. And you? I couldn't help but notice you wear no ring."
"No, I'm not married, and I don't plan on getting married. Ever."
"Those are pretty strong words. Mind if I ask why?"
"Yes, I ... I do mind. It's none of your business." She wasn't sure why, but she wanted Tabor to think of her kindly--without censure. If she told him the truth, he would hate her.
He smiled. "Perhaps, but I have to tell you a little secret."
"Yes?"
"I came back because of you, Miss Jones." He urged his spirited horse into a trot, leaving Sarah with her mouth wide open.
He'd come back for her?
)
