The Werewolf of Walnut Grove - Almonzo's feelings toward Laura

When he told her he would miss her too, it almost seemed like an admission of him already having feelings for her, more than friendship. He was a bit awkward after immediately excusing himself to make his delivery. Maybe he had feelings and knew he couldn't act on them because she was still too young? Ugh, now that I think about it, it always bothered me that even after he finally started seeing her she still looked way too young. Ick. Anyway, did anyone else see that or is it just me reading more into it?