Sanford arched his eyebrows, his gaze piercing through Maggie.
âYou look like youâre on the brink of tears, and you call it nothing?â
Maggie met his eyes, her voice tinged with longing.
âI was just wishing I could bear your pain and injuries for you.â
At her words, Sanford felt his heart soften, melting like wax under a gentle flame.
He reached out, his fingers grazing her cheek in a tender pinch, then teased, âIf you bore my pain and injuries, would that mean you could boss me around as you please? I never knew you had such a wild streak.â
His playful tone drew a smile from Maggie, who responded with a cheeky grin.
âYes, Iâm that wild.
Does it appeal to you?â
âIt appeals to me, and I adore you more than words can say!â
Sanfordâs words flowed with heartfelt sincerity.
He cupped her face gently, pressing his lips to hers.
Maggieâs cheeks flushed crimson, and she gave him a playful jab, evading his kiss.
âWatch it! Rosalynn and the others are still around.â
Sanfordâs laughter was mischievous.
âThey enjoy a good display of affection.
Isnât that right, Brian, Rosalynn?â
Rosalynn let out a soft, amused laugh, her eyes flickering toward Brian.
Brianâs lips curled into a sly grin.
âYou know, seeing some public displays of affection really lifts the spirits.â
Sanfordâs voice cut through the chatter.
âDid you catch that? Maggie, come over here.
Letâs give them a bit more to watch.â
Maggie rolled her eyes, replying, â Stop it.â
Sanfordâs tone turned playful.
âIf you donât want me to kiss you, then you can be the one to do it.â
Maggie was at a loss for words.
Rosalynn and Brian exchanged a quick, knowing smile as they watched the couple being sweet to each other.
Sanfordâs upbeat, sunny attitude was clear for everyone to see.
Maggieâs company also assisted in easing his distress from his current paralysis.
Seeing them in good spirits lifted a bit of the guilt that had weighed on Rosalynn and Brian.
Shari stayed off to the side, her eyes narrowed, fingers gently curling.
Her deliberate words aimed to incite animosity in Maggie towards Brian appeared unsuccessful.
After a little while, Rosalynn and Brian decided it was time to go.