Aaron rushed out of the mercantile. He had allowed himself to be distracted earlier by his pupils. Although they’d had a wonderful morning, playing games and laughing with one another, now he was very behind.

He had hastily scribbled a list of errands and meetings he had to attend to before the Christmas holiday. Now he was working through the list one by one. He had picked up a carton of oranges at the mercantile. Katie had explained that it was a Christmas tradition in Nowhere.

He tried to calculate how long it would take him to get to his next appointment. He had frantically scheduled appointments to try to find the boys homes. Although he had told himself he wouldn’t get his hopes up, he was still wishing for a miracle.

As he walked down the street, staring at the slip of paper in his hands, he crashed into someone. “I’m so sorry!” Aaron shouted as he looked up.

“Well, this must be my lucky day. You’re just the man I wanted to see!” Edna Petunia Sanders was looking at him earnestly, but her eyes sparkled with mischief as usual. She was a bit frightening.

Aaron’s face turned bright red. He wasn’t ready for another encounter with Nowhere’s most eccentric citizen. “You’ve been looking for me?”

Edna Petunia put her free hand on her hip. In the other, she carried a pie tin. “I’ve heard you’ve been getting to know my youngest daughter, Katie.”

Aaron swallowed hard. He really didn’t want to get into this. He was going to be late. If he missed the meeting, there was no way the family would adopt one or more of the boys. “I’m afraid I have an appointment, ma’am.”

“And I’m afraid you’re going to have to answer some questions, Cavett!” Edna Petunia countered. “Why don’t we make ourselves comfortable?” Edna Petunia walked straight toward the mercantile, pushed the door open, and waited for Aaron to follow her. “Lewis, hello!” Edna Petunia kissed her son-in-law on the cheek and handed him the pie tin. “I ruined the pie. Put too much jam on the insides and now it burst, but I remembered how you like when that happens.”

Lewis looked perplexed, but he accepted the pie. “Thank you, Edna Petunia. I sure appreciate it. Aaron, you just left here! Did you forget something?”

Aaron shook his head, unable to explain the situation.

Edna Petunia grinned. “Aaron and I are going to have a little chat. Do you have some comfortable chairs we could use?”

Lewis nodded and pulled up two overstuffed armchairs. “Here you are.”

“Thank you, Lewis.” Edna Petunia made herself comfortable in one of the chairs and stared at Aaron until he did the same. “Aaron, we have a problem.”

“W—We do?” Aaron stammered. Something about Edna Petunia intimidated him a great deal.

“My little bastard is at home is crying, sobbing, in fact. And she’s the cheeriest one!” Edna Petunia explained. “What did you do to her?”

Aaron’s heart sank. He hated to know that he had caused Katie any pain at all. In fact, all he wanted was to make her happy. He tried to figure out a way to tell Edna Petunia this. “I didn’t intend—”

Edna Petunia shook her head. “Doesn’t matter what you intended. It’s what you did.”

Aaron sighed. “I told her that I was going back to New York. I have to go back. My job’s there.”

“Hm.” Edna Petunia folded her arms.

“Excuse me?” Aaron was taken aback. It seemed like Edna Petunia didn’t believe what he was telling her.

“Do you know of a place where they don’t have schools?” Edna Petunia asked, catching Aaron off guard.

“A place where...why does that matter?” Aaron asked.

“Do you know of a place?” Edna Petunia repeated.

Aaron considered it. “No, I can’t think of a place that doesn’t have some type of school.”

“Then, it seems to me a man such as yourself would be able to find a job anywhere,” Edna Petunia said triumphantly. “Seems to me like this New York notion is just an excuse. So what is it, Mr. Cavett? You don’t love her? You’re only after one thing, and that is—”

Aaron cut her off before she could say something scandalous. “Of course I love her, Mrs. Sanders! I love her with all my heart!”

From the back of the store, Lewis arched an eyebrow at Aaron’s outburst. He realized Aaron had to be talking about Katie. Lewis smiled and stroked his chin. He hoped Aaron could hold his own against Edna Petunia. The woman was tough, and Aaron seemed like a good man. He hoped Edna Petunia and Aaron could resolve whatever was going on between them.

Aaron took a deep breath and steadied his voice. “I truly care for her. You have to believe me.”

“And you have to believe me, Mr. Cavett,” Edna Petunia responded. “Her father and I won’t tolerate anyone causing any of our daughters pain. Especially Katie. You’ve made her miserable. It’s the least you can do to apologize to her and restore her to her usual bubbly self. Do you understand?”

Aaron had said the phrase to his students more times than he could count, and it felt terrible to be on the receiving end of it for once. He slumped in his chair. “Yes, Mrs. Sanders. I understand.”

Edna Petunia folded her hands in her lap and grinned. “Good. I’ll expect Katie to be back to her usual sunny self by tomorrow.” With that, she stood up and flounced out of the mercantile.

Lewis walked over to Aaron. “Are you all right?”

Aaron rubbed his temples. “I’ve been better.”

Lewis nodded. “Edna Petunia can be a lot to take in, but she and Cletus truly love their daughters and only want what’s best for them.”

“Yes, I could tell that from the way she talks about Katie,” Aaron agreed.

“Still, you seem pretty battered. Would you like to stay here and relax for a while? I could get you a Coca Cola,” Lewis suggested.

Aaron shook his head and stood. “No, but I appreciate the offer. Thank you, Lewis. You’ve been a true friend.” Aaron extended his hand.

Lewis shook it and clapped Aaron on the back. “It’ll be a shame when you go back to New York. You’re a good man. We were lucky to have you here, even if it was only for a short amount of time. I’m sure that your students will make you proud.”

Aaron smiled. “I certainly hope so. Only time will tell. In fact, that’s where I’m headed now—to meet a family and ask them to take in some of the boys.”

“That’s wonderful. I hope you’re successful,” Lewis said.

“Thank you, Lewis. I’ll see you tomorrow at the Christmas celebration.” Aaron hurried out of the mercantile, hoping he wouldn’t be late.

Three hours later, Aaron was seated in front of Howard Fitzsimmons, proprietor of the town auction house. He was the last person in Nowhere Aaron had been able to schedule a meeting with.

Mr. Fitzsimmons picked at a piece of lint on the arm of his chair. “I don’t understand what you’re asking me.”

“Mr. Fitzsimmons, these are smart, capable young men. Under the right circumstances, they’ll excel. I’m sure of it,” Aaron said passionately.

“But what am I supposed to do about it?" Mr. Fitzsimmons barked.

“I’d like you to take in an orphan. Or more than one. Maybe three. Or five. Or...all fifteen?” Aaron asked hesitantly. This was where it always fell apart. No one had the space, the means, or the wherewithal to take on a band of orphans.

Sure enough, Mr. Fitzsimmons spluttered indignantly. “Take in fifteen orphans? Can you imagine? This place would be filthy!”

“I’ve taught them life skills, including cleaning,” Aaron offered hopefully.

Mr. Fitzsimmons stood up. “I think it’s best you leave, young man. I can’t help you.”

Aaron sighed. “I was afraid you’d say that.”

Mr. Fitzsimmons escorted him to the door. “Merry Christmas!”

“You, too, sir,” Aaron said. Mr. Fitzsimmons began to close the door, and Aaron hopped outside so it wouldn’t hit him. “And a Merry Christmas to you, too,” Aaron whispered bitterly once he was outside.

He’d had a bad feeling about the meeting with Mr. Fitzsimmons, but he was desperate. He would meet with anyone willing to give him time.

Aaron looked at his watch. It would be dark soon, and he wanted to get back to the church to make sure the boys were behaving themselves, but there was one more stop he had to make.

Aaron gathered the reins of the horse he’d borrowed from Micah and set off for the Sanders’ house. He wasn’t sure if Katie would agree to see him, but he had to at least try.

As he rode, he imagined what his life would be like if he didn’t have to go to New York. It was almost painful to think about it. He’d marry Katie, buy a plot of land in Nowhere, and start a family. Ever since he was a small boy, growing up in the orphanage, he had longed for a family he could call his own. His students had been the closest thing to it, and now he was leaving them.

Tears stung Aaron’s eyes, surprising him as he approached the Sanders home. He wiped them away roughly, trying to compose himself for what he had to do. He hitched his horse to a post outside the house and walked to the door slowly. His stomach was doing somersaults. He wasn’t sure why he was so nervous, but he thought it likely had something to do with Edna Petunia’s lecture earlier that day. He also was terrified at the prospect of hurting Katie even more than he already had.

Still, he gathered his courage and knocked on the door. He let out a sigh of relief when Cletus Sanders opened the door.

“Aaron! What are you doing here, son? We’re about to eat dinner,” Cletus told him. “Would you like to join us?”

Aaron shook his head. “I wouldn’t want to impose, sir. Thank you for the kind offer. May I speak to Katie, please?”

“I suppose that depends on what Katie wants,” Cletus said thoughtfully. “Stay put for a minute.” Cletus disappeared into the house.

Aaron paced on the front porch, hoping Katie would agree to see him. Edna Petunia was right. He had to apologize and make up with her. It wasn’t right to leave town with her so angry at him.

After what felt like hours, Katie appeared at the door. Her expression was neutral.

“Could we take a walk?” Aaron asked.

Katie crossed her arms across her chest. “It's going to be dark soon.”

“In that case, may I come in?” Aaron tried.

Katie sighed, but stepped aside to let Aaron into the house.

Aaron followed her into the formal parlor, where Katie took a seat in a comfortable-looking armchair. Aaron sat on the sofa. He tried to meet her eye.

Katie looked at the ground. “You’d better make this quick. I have a few more pies to bake.”

“I’m sorry I hurt you,” Aaron said simply. He waited for Katie to return his gaze.

Katie looked up, surprised. “I didn’t expect you to say that.”

“I ran into Edna Petunia,” Aaron explained.

Katie jumped up. “You’re only here because Edna Petunia yelled at you?”

Aaron stood and grabbed Katie’s hands. “No! That’s not why I’m here. And she didn’t yell at me, exactly...it was more like a scolding.”

Katie shook her head. “I don’t have time for this. You’re leaving in a day and a half.”

“Katie, please. Let me stay. Let me make it up to you. I could help you bake,” Aaron pleaded.

Katie scoffed. “Do you even know how to bake?”

Aaron shrugged. “No, but I want to learn.”

Katie frowned. “I can’t teach you to bake in only a few hours. We’d need more time than that.”

Aaron sighed. “Katie, I know I ruined things between us. I’ll be sorry for the rest of my life about that. But I want you to know how badly I feel. And that I really cared for you—I still care for you, in fact. Will you hear me out?”

“I don’t know,” Katie said quietly, but she stared up at Aaron’s perfect face. She knew Aaron didn’t realize how handsome he was. He never took pains about his appearance or admired himself in mirrors, but he was the most attractive man she’d ever seen. Even though she knew looks weren’t important in the long run, she was tempted by Aaron’s chiseled face and muscular build. Her heart hurt as she envisioned the children she could have had with this man.

“Please,” Aaron continued.

Katie groaned, then nodded. “I suppose I can listen for a little. But then I have to get back to the kitchen.”

“Of course,” Aaron replied. “Katie, you’re a wonderful young woman. You’re everything I’ve always wanted in a partner. But I have to set a good example for my students. I have a job and responsibilities in New York. I wish things had worked out differently. I’ll always regret not staying here and being with you. But I have a duty, and I must see it through.”

A tear threatened to roll down Katie’s cheek, but she looked down and wiped it away. “I understand,” she whispered.

Aaron was close enough to Katie that his face was practically touching hers. If he bent down a fraction of an inch, they’d be kissing. Aaron couldn’t believe how badly his body wanted that, but he couldn’t do that to Katie. It wouldn’t be right.

Katie’s heart fluttered as she stared at Aaron, close enough to touch lips. She dared him to kiss her with her eyes, but he wouldn’t. Katie loved being so close to him. She could smell him, a strong, masculine scent, and practically feel his body pressing against hers. She giggled as she began to imagine engaging in improper activities with Aaron.

As soon as he saw Katie laughing, Aaron was unable to resist. She was too sweet and kind and warm. He bent down and kissed her passionately, feeling dizzy.

Katie forgot about her surroundings and kissed Aaron back with all the energy she had in her body. When she was with Aaron, she felt like everything sparkled with light and beauty. There were endless possibilities for the future. Then, suddenly, she found herself pulling away.

Aaron looked at her, hurt. “What’s wrong?”

“Aaron! Get control of yourself!” Katie said sternly.

A look of horror crossed Aaron’s face. “I am very sorry, Katie. I acted very inappropriately this evening. I didn’t mean to do that.”

Katie smiled. “It’s all right. I realized that you’re right.”

“I am?” Aaron seemed confused.

“You have responsibilities in New York. I understand that. It makes me sad, but you have to live by your values and do what you teach your students to do. I’m sorry to see you go, but I can appreciate your perspective,” Katie said. She surprised herself with her calm and peacefulness. She loved Aaron, but she realized that she couldn’t have him.

“That’s very kind of you, Katie. I don’t deserve your understanding,” Aaron said honestly. This proved further what an incredible young woman Katie was.

Katie shrugged. “It’s fine. But you probably should go now.”

Aaron hesitated. “I wish I could stay.”

“I know,” Katie said sadly. “I wish you could, too.”

Aaron stared deep into Katie’s eyes. He wanted more than anything to stay with her, to make her his wife. But he couldn’t ask her to leave her family. He of all people realized how lucky Katie had been to find a wonderful, loving family. If he’d been in her position, he wouldn’t have left, either. Plus, it would be impractical. They’d have to get married right away. He was due back in New York in a matter of days. It was hopeless. He cleared his throat and stood up straight. “I’ll see you tomorrow at church, right?”

“If I wake up on time. I might be up all night making those pies,” Katie joked.

“Do you need any help? I may not be able to bake, but I would be happy to measure or pour ingredients,” Aaron suggested.

Katie shook her head. “I would like that, but it’s too tempting. I don’t think we should be alone together anymore. You’ve seen what happens.”

Aaron sighed. “You’re right. As much as I wish things were different, they aren’t. I’ll go.”

Katie walked Aaron to the door. “Thank you for stopping by. I’m glad you didn’t leave before we resolved things. I was upset after our last conversation.”

“I feel the same way,” Aaron told her. “Thank you, Katie.” He reached out and tucked a stray piece of her hair behind her ear. “I’ll never forget you.”

Katie’s body responded to Aaron’s touch, fighting desperately to get closer to him, but she stayed where she was. “Good night, Aaron.” She closed the door, then turned and slumped against it, sinking to the floor. Her heart pounded. She knew she was doing the right thing in letting Aaron go. Why did it feel so wrong?