Page 18 of A Sanctuary from Shadow
He waved dismissively. “Some light summer reading.”
“There are 20 books here!”
Daddy’s expression slanted, accentuating his gaunt cheeks. “You’d have no trouble reading twenty of your beloved romances.”
I soured. “It’s easier to comprehend a simple love story than complicated political philosophy.”
“Don’t you disparage my daughter’s intelligence. She’s capable of comprehending anything—if she wants to.”
“But I don’t want to. You want me to.”
“I promise it won’t occupy too much of your time with Briar.”
I stilled, no doubt blushing. “How do you know about Briar?”
“Your sister isn’t exactly Fort Knox when it comes to gossip, Amy.”
I bit back a curse.
“I think the whole neighborhood knows about you and Briar.”
That meant Laurel Woodrush knew about me and Briar. I gulped, figuring spirit circle would be tense on Sunday. Perhaps Laurel’s semester hadn’t ended yet.
“Do you like him?”
I bit my lip. “He’s—nice.”
Daddy’s brows, bushy as our hydrangeas, rose in amusement. “Just nice?”
“Yes.” I rolled my eyes. “Just nice.”
He studied me, making me squirm. “He’s not the one.”
I gasped. “What makes you say that?”
“Because he’s not.” Daddy shrugged. “I can tell these things.”
“From looking at me? Daddy, that’s crazy.”
“It’s not. You’re my daughter. I know you. And I know love. There’s a certain spark missing from your eyes. Briar Hawthorne’s not your match.”
“But why not? He’s kind, smart, and very likable. He’s studying to become an engineer, so he’s bound to be successful. And he’s Danann! I thought you’d be over the moon that I’m even interested in him. I know Aunt Aylie and Uncle Neel are.”
“But you don’t love him.”
“Of course not! We’ve only been on two dates. One of which took place in a car on the way here.”
“You’ve known him since you were four. I’d think love would’ve set in by now.”
“We’ve been acquainted since I was four. That doesn’t mean we know each other as people. We’re just starting on that.” I eyed him. “Isthisyou being an overprotective father? You decide to start being critical of my dates when I finally find one I’m attracted to?”
“Ah, attraction!” Daddy wiggled. “The heart of the matter.”
I hid my face.
“Attraction is important, daughter, but there must be something more.” He nudged my hand from my face. I met his dry gaze with one of my own. “Of course, there’s no harm in testing the waters. If you have a taste for him, then—”
“Oh, please stop right there!” I exclaimed, making him laugh so hard he coughed.
