He wasn't nervous, not really.  He was excited.  He had spent the short amount of time between his own house to this one thinking about his late wife and what she would think of him doing this.  She would be happy for him, he thought.  He had stayed busy and focusing on Heidi for long enough.  Not that he would stop focusing on his daughter, no, never that, but some of that overworking there with the horses and at the stable needed to be cut down and spent on making a life for himself.  He gave a quick glance up to the sky and thanked her for her love and support, but now he hoped he was moving on.

His thoughts now were totally about Karen and the evening to come.  He hoped she didn't think he had overdone it.   He wanted to treat her as he felt she should be treated.  Not that he planned their meals to be so fancy every time, but for an official first evening out, he felt it was suitable.  Arriving at the cottage, Lorn's long legs got out of the carriage and he walked to the door.  Holding the bright multiple-colored bouquet, he knocked firmly.