CHAPTER 17

Myrna stood next to her still-in-one-piece car, which had reached Des Moines a full hour before the buses. Brian stood before her, plucking absently at a button on her blouse. She stared over his shoulder, finding it difficult to look at him. Every time she did, her heart constricted with anguish.

She hated good-byes. Especially permanent ones.

She slid a hand into her suit pocket and fingered her business card in indecision. She knew continuing this was a mistake. It would just lead to heartache for both of them. They’d both suffered enough in the past, she decided. She pulled her empty hand from her pocket. No strings. For the best.

They started to speak at the same time. “I—”

“We—”

They laughed. Their eyes met. Brian drew her into his arms and kissed her deeply, his embrace tight. Her throat was also tight. Don’t cry, Myrna. Wait until…

She pulled away. “I had a great time with you.” She hoped she sounded impersonal, not emotional.

“This doesn’t have to be the end.”

She ducked her