He lifted her chin and kissed her on the lips. Afterward his mouth lingered there, his blue eyes enormous. He kissed her a second time, this time much longer. The magic returned but she reminded herself – Mama’s house, October 1931. Plus Uncle Collin equaled punishment.
“Goodbye for now,” he said, straightening his jacket. “I’m off for my run.”
She stood there a long time, reliving his hypnotic kisses, wanting more, wishing he were standing there, his face eclipsing hers. She’d have to go inside sooner or later, so she opened the door and tip-toed up the front stairs to her own bedroom.
“Agnes,” Uncle Collin said, “come into the kitchen at once.”
She crept down the stairs and back to the kitchen. She sat at the table with the other three and cast her eyes downward.
“You lied to me,” Uncle Collin began. “Tell the truth now, young lady.”
“I didn’t lie, it’s just -- oh, all right, I did. Mr. Balmoral invited me to dinner and I didn’t want to tell you. I’m sorry.”
Mama groaned. “Why would you be lying to your Uncle Collin, who’s done so much for you ever since your father died?”
“I don’t know. I didn’t want Uncle Collin to feel bad that I missed bingo because Mr. Balmoral invited me to dinner.”
Uncle Collin scowled. “I don’t feel bad, as you put it. I’m angry. Until sundown it’s rosaries, novenas, and … my favorite niece has disappointed me, Agnes Mary.”
“Oh, poo.” Granny stood up and came behind Agnes. “You leave her be, Collin Doherty. Can’t you see the lass is smitten?”
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