She had been thinking about Frederic more than she should, she thought in bemusement as she browsed the wares of one vendor. In the week that followed those kisses, those glorious, soul-stealing gestures, she had stayed home and out of the public eye and kept to herself. It was all so overwhelming and she needed to take the time to think about things. It was clear that he wanted a relationship with her beyond just friendship, and it was true that she liked the idea, but it was a little frightening that it was all happening in a whirlwind. Karen thought about writing a note to invite him over, but she chickened out every time.

Now she was doing some retail therapy, let's be honest, and it was his hand that came into view. She looked up and said, "Mister Mulvahil." His very name on her lips was like sin, she thought as she gazed at the widower. It didn't take much at all to see the attraction between the two of them.