Snow was falling over the small hometown the very day Camilla arrived back. Her mother was waiting at the station, and when she spotted Hayden beside her, she froze for a moment in surprise.
"Hello, ma'am," greeted Hayden with a bright, well‑mannered smile. "I'm Camilla's schoolmate."
Her mother warmly invited him to come home for dinner.
Hayden glanced quickly at Camilla, then politely declined, "I really shouldn't intrude. My place is just in the neighborhood up ahead." He dragged his suitcase away, his figure standing sharp and clear against the snowy white backdrop.
Her mother nudged Camilla gently. "That young man seems like such a fine person."
Camilla said nothing in reply. Truth be told, she wasn't sure what to say. She was no fool. She knew exactly how Hayden felt about her.
