“Rose…”

Adrian gazed at Rosemary standing in the doorway. The heavy rain behind him made a steady roar, as if the whole world were witnessing their meeting.

Rosemary drew a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart. She looked at Adrian for a long moment, hesitant, then opened the door wider.

“Come in. You’re soaked through.”

Adrian paused, then stepped inside slowly. His white shirt clung to his frame, his hair drenched; his face was pale but grateful.

Rosemary hurried to the kitchen, grabbed a towel, and set it on the table. “Dry yourself off. I don’t want you to get sick in here,” she said curtly.

Adrian offered...