Heart Strings by Betty Jo Schuler Read Free Book Online Page B

anyone.”
    “You could have gone out with Wonder Will, I'll bet.”
    They were at her front door, and Keely folded her arms to her waist. He was asking for a date, and when she'd suggested 'doubling', she'd confirmed that she knew it. “I wasn't interested.”
    “I'm glad you're interested in going with me.” Dimples deepening, dark eyes glowing, Tripp gave her a butterfly kiss that barely grazed her cheek, but somehow touched her heart. She hadn't had a date in almost a school year, and she'd never dated a guy like Tripp Andrews. Handsome, clean-cut, and mature for his age. Interested? Try scared. Excited.
     
    *****
     
    As Tripp walked slowly back to the Jefferson house, he remembered Rosa's request and wondered if Keely would “girl talk” with her. If so, what would they talk about? He thought girls usually discussed boys and clothes, and neither was part of Rosa's life right now. But Keely would know what to say, he'd bet. He touched his lips, remembering the kiss he'd given her. She was nicer than any girl he'd known, and prettier, and he wanted to get to know her better. He hadn't had much opportunity to date, but he wanted to take Keely places and have fun. He wanted to kiss her.
    The problem with taking her to visit Rosa was that someone might give away his secret. He'd been a patient at University Hospital not long ago. None of the same patients were there, but the kids who were patients now knew why Trippo wore a red vinyl heart on his chest. A nurse or doctor might even say something to give him away.
    But he owed it to Rosa to ask Keely.
    He opened the front door and nearly ran over Aunt Ev. “What would you like for dinner, Tripp? I've been trying to decide between spaghetti and meatballs, Mark's favorite, and the veal cutlets that George loved.”
    Tripp's mind was slow shifting gears. “I hope you don't mind, but I won't be here for dinner tonight. I'm going to J's with Keely and some of her friends to celebrate the end of school. While I was in the hospital, I lost touch with my friends, and I thought this evening might be fun.”
    Evelyn looked disappointed but squeezed his arm. “Of course, dear. You should get out with some young people. And since I haven't seen George all week, I'll go to Heartland and eat supper with him. I just never know whether he'll know me, and the food is bland.” She made a face. “But tonight's a good time, since you won't be here.”
    Tripp hoped Aunt Ev didn't think he'd be there every night for dinner. He was used to a free reign since his parents were seldom home. But she treated him like a son, and you couldn't have it both ways, he guessed. “What about taking George some of those delicious sugar cookies you made? Didn't you say they're his favorite?”
    “That's a lovely idea. I baked a double batch, and there's enough for the other man in his room too. And the nurse on duty.”
    A smile lit Aunt Ev's face and eyes as she bustled off. She was the motherly type, and what she needed was someone to look after.
     
    *****
     

 
     
     
    CHAPTER 6
     
     
    Walking toward the Johannsen's a while later, Tripp saw a light go off upstairs and thought maybe Keely had just finished dressing. Imagining her in front of her bedroom mirror, brushing her silky hair, his palms began to sweat. He wiped them on the sides of his pants while standing at her front door.
    Keely threw open the door and ran straight into him. When they'd both regained their balance, he chuckled. “I love an eager date.”
    It was still light enough to see her blush. “I was coming outside to spare you the family inquisition. You know how parents are, and little brothers.”
    Tripp didn't know, but he knew Keely looked outstanding. Her full skirt was made out of some gauzy flowered material and her stretchy pink top just came to her waist. “You look pretty. That's a romantic-looking outfit.”
    “I hope I'm not too dressed up.”
    “No. What you're wearing is fine. I was making a joke. I like