Yes, Id love to.

Great, Alex too was feeling very pleased himself. His Wednesday night study was important to him, both spiritually and emotionally, and hed have definitely felt the void if Marcail had stayed home.

When Alex picked her up from school that afternoon, he surprised her with the news that Kay had asked them to supper that evening. He told Marcail when he would be back for her, and she took advantage of the time to do a little baking.

By the time Alex returned, Marcail was flushed from her baking efforts, but the cookie tin was full. Marcail also had a basket to go to the Austins.

Youve been busy, Alex commented with pleasure as his nose tested the air. What is that I smell?

Probably the peanuts. I like cookies with peanuts in them.

Marcail held one out to her spouse and waited for the verdict. Her smile was triumphant at the look of rapture on his face.

I take it you like them?

Alex quickly schooled his features into a blas mask. Theyre pretty good, but its hard to tell after just one. Id better try another.

He started toward the basket, but Marcail neatly scooped it up with one hand and held it behind her back.

Alexs brows rose, along with the corners of his mouth, at her impertinence, and he came to stand very close to his wife. When Alex leaned very close and put his arms around her, Marcail began to wonder if she should have hidden the basket. He seemed to take an inordinate amount of time stealing a second cookie, and Marcails face was a dull red by the time he finished.

Alex never took his eyes from his wifes face as he reached around her slight form and retrieved the cookie without ever touching her. As she watched him, Marcail had the sudden impression that Alex was not all that interested in the baked goods. The idea scared her a little and caused another emotion, one she could not define.

Alex kept his place by Marcail as he ate the second cookie, and did nothing this time to hide his pleasure.

These are really excellent, did you know that?

Im glad you came to that decision after only two; one more and you wouldnt want any supper.

Now you sound like a teacher, Alex told her as he wiped the crumbs from his hands.

The smile Marcail gave him was brilliant. I do, dont I?

Alex only laughed, shook his head, and escorted his wife out the door.

Kay Austin said little to the new Mrs. Montgomery when she first walked in the door. Not until they were in the kitchen, and alone, did Kay give any hint as to what was on her mind.

Are you all right? Kay asked the question while looking directly into Marcails eyes, and Marcail suddenly felt tears stinging her own.

Marcail nodded a little. Why do you ask? she whispered.