The Hired Husband. Judith Stacy

back out. Good gracious, what will people think? What will they say?”

      “What difference does it make what people think or say?”

      She looked at him as if he’d taken leave of his senses.

      “It makes all the difference in the world,” Rachel declared. “What sort of reflection would that be on Mother, if I didn’t host the luncheon? What would people think of her? Of the family?”

      “Let me get this straight,” Mitch said. “Chelsey can’t return to school, but you can host a luncheon?”

      “These are two entirely different circumstances,” Rachel insisted. “There are parties, dances and outings at the school. This luncheon is for a service organization.”

      Mitch didn’t really see the distinction, but he let it go and said, “You don’t have to host the luncheon. Not if you don’t want to.”

      Rachel’s shoulders sagged again. “I’m afraid you simply don’t understand.”

      She left the study. Mitch’s heart ached watching her go. She was right. He didn’t understand.