“What is going on here, Manchester?”

He looked up abruptly, obviously surprised to have his thoughts interrupted. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, you asked your wife and mother to leave the room. You’ve peppered me with questions about my church and the school I hope to build. Then you talk about the relationship between our families. I am wondering what it is that you’re trying very hard not to say.”

“Yes, you’re right. I should just get on with it.”

Drake fidgeted with his pen, taking it out of the holder, slipping it back in again. The man was obviously nervous. Definitely not usual circumstances for Drake. Dare he hope his childhood friend was about to suggest Joseph’s well- hidden desire?

“What do you think of Abigail?”

“I think she’s a wonderful woman, and I am distressed at her predicament.”

“Good. Because there’s something I want to ask you.”

Finally. His stomach in knots, he motioned with his hand for Manchester to proceed. Trying very hard not to anticipate Drake’s words, he held his breath.

Manchester leaned forward, his elbows on his desk. “Please give serious consideration to my suggestion.”

“I’m listening.”

“I would like you to marry my sister.”

Joseph sat back, all the breath leaving his body. Exhilaration mixed with shock. Despite what he’d hoped Drake would say, he still would not have been any more surprised if the man had jumped up, taken off all his clothes, and dashed around the room spouting poetry.

Marry Abigail? The one woman he never thought would be his?