Chapter 4

Me, I ride the bus in full colonial garb but then again, I like the stares and the way kids point and call me Johnny Appleseed. Which I’m not, I’m a stable hand, and right now I’d give anything to be on that bus heading home.

The guy clears his throat. “Sir, I’m sorry, but I must be on my way—”

“Wait.” Before I can stop myself I touch him again. He’s the only other person here and I don’t want to be alone. “Can you give me a lift?”

“A what?” His eyes harden and he picks at my fingers, trying to pry them off his arm. “Sir, I don’t even knowyou. We haven’t been formally introduced—”

I laugh. This one’s cute; I like the way he insists on staying in character. Fine, I can play along. If it gets me a ride home and maybe his number before he disappears, I’m game. “Allow me to introduce myself, then.”

With a flourish I bow, fighting back giggles. “My most distinguished gentleman, my name is Nicholas Wiley and I tend the master’s steeds in yonder stable.”