“I Feel Sorry for the Man Who Marries Her,” He Said — By Autumn, He Was the One Saying the Vows
Chapter 5
Clara refused Daniel’s help.
“I’ll manage.”
“You have six weeks.”
“I know.”
“I can pay the debt.”
“No.”
“Why?”
“Because then everyone will say I married you for money.”
Daniel went silent.
Clara regretted the words immediately.
“I didn’t mean—”
“I understand.”
He mounted his horse.
She watched him leave.
For the next two weeks, Clara worked harder than ever.
She sold cattle.
She sold furniture.
She took extra work in town.
But the debt remained.
One afternoon, Daniel arrived with Thomas.
“I have an offer.”
Clara crossed her arms.
“I don’t want your money.”
“It isn’t money.”
“What is it?”
“My uncle’s mortgage.”
She stared.
“You bought it?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“So he can’t take your farm.”
Clara’s voice softened.
“You shouldn’t have.”
Daniel dismounted.
“I know.”
She looked at him.
“How much did you pay?”
“Enough.”
“Daniel.”
He smiled.
“Don’t ask.”
“I need to know.”
“No.”
She stepped closer.
“You cannot simply buy my debts and expect me to accept it.”
“I don’t expect anything.”
“Then why?”
He looked at her.
“Because I love you.”
Clara froze.
Daniel’s voice shook.
“I don’t want your farm. I don’t want you to owe me. I don’t want you to marry me because I saved you.”
He reached into his coat.
He pulled out the mortgage papers.
“I only wanted you to have the chance to choose.”
Clara’s eyes filled.
She whispered:
“And if I choose no?”
Daniel smiled sadly.
“Then I’ll still be glad you kept your home.”
She stared at him.
For the first time, Clara understood the difference between being rescued and being respected.
She stepped forward.
Then she kissed him.
