Truthfully, he’d impressed her. He could have walked away, but he hadn’t.

They’d passed the next few hours playing cards, and despite her anxiety he’d managed to distract her and make her laugh.

Eventually he’d vanished to track down food and Martha had checked on Kathleen.

She’d done the same a few times in the night, using the flashlight on her phone to leave and enter the room quietly.

All the same, it had been a relief when sunlight had finally peeped through the curtains. Things seemed less scary and generally more manageable in daylight.

“What did you two do last night when I was having my long rest?” Kathleen accepted the bowl of berries Martha handed her. “Did you dress up and find a lovely restaurant?”

Did she think it was date night?

Martha didn’t know whether to be amused or exasperated that a health fright didn’t seem to have dented Kathleen’s enthusiasm for matchmaking. “We split a pizza and played cards. Yogurt?” She handed one to Kathleen.

“Thank you, dear. It’s all very healthy and delicious, although I do miss crispy bacon.”

Josh finished his coffee. “I’m sure I can track down bacon.” He left the room and Kathleen put her bowl down and reached for Martha’s hand.

“I apologize. You didn’t sign up to be a nurse. You’ve been very kind, but if you wish to resign, I understand.”

“Resign? No way. Don’t you fret about anything. You need to drink.” Martha poured her another glass of ice water and watched while Kathleen sipped it.

“I’ll be right as rain in a few minutes. Particularly if Josh tracks down bacon. Isn’t he a wonder?”

“He’s been a big help.” Martha was careful not to be too effusive in case Kathleen’s next request was that they book a wedding venue. “Are you sure I can’t call Liza back? I think she’d want to know that you weren’t well.”

“What would be the point? You’d give her something else to worry about and she already has more than enough. I can’t believe she’s actually in Oakwood by herself. You have no idea what a step forward that is, although I’m a little worried about what it means for her and Sean. I do hope the man comes to his senses. Do you think I should call him?”

“I do not.” As someone who had been on the receiving end of Kathleen’s energetic attempts to meddle with relationships, Martha was swift with her response. “I think you should leave it to them. How are you feeling, really? And don’t put on a brave face.”

“I’m better. You heard the doctor, it’s nothing serious.”