The reading room
Sweethearts #72
This anthology issue contains three romantic stories. "Scared-of Love" follows a woman reflecting on her past with Mark, whom she was set to marry until she learned he was planning to propose, causing her to reject him out of fear—a decision she now deeply regrets. "The Happiness and Heartbreak of Vicki Carter: Chapter III—Love's Sacrifice" (by John Messmann) depicts Vicki finding work and lodging at the home of J. Foster Thorpe, where she encounters his charming but self-centered nephew Bob; as their relationship develops, Vicki realizes Bob's superficiality will never allow true love to flourish. "I Led Him On" tells of Betty, who encouraged another woman's affections toward a man she herself loved while working in Bell City; years later, she regrets the deception when she learns the man has moved away, leaving her with only fleeting weekend memories to cherish.