Nathaniel and Amanda stood together on an outcropping of rock, overlooking the sea. The wind whipped through their hair, but they were warm together. Their two sons, Charles and Jonathon, played with sticks behind them. Nathaniel pulled Amanda to him so that her back rested against his strong frame, and he wrapped his arms around her to help shield the wind.
“The Chartists have their list of requests—six of them.”
“Were they sensible? How do you think the Lords will respond?”
“Their list is reasonable, and the House of Lords is starting to soften. Universal suffrage, for men at least, is non-negotiable. This is going to happen, Amanda. Not tomorrow, not next year, but forces are in motion that will bring change.” He squeezed her shoulders. “It’s happening, my dear.”
Amanda breathed in deeply. “Would that Charlie could see it too.”
Nathaniel nodded and ran his hands up and down her arms.
Amanda rested the back of her head against his chest. “It will take longer for women’s suffrage, but it too is coming. Perhaps our daughter will one day cast her vote.”
“Our daughter?” He felt his eyes tear up and his hand found the side of her face, turning her toward him.
She nodded. “I am with child, and I just know she’s a girl.” One hand rested on her stomach.
Nathaniel leaned down and kissed her until their son Charles said, “Please, Father. We’ve just had luncheon.” He and his younger brother laughed while their nurse attempted to quiet the pair.
Amanda looked up at Nathaniel, eyes burning with unshed tears. “Thank you, for this beautiful life.”
Nathaniel’s joy and gratitude echoed her own.
Movement caught his eyes, and he pointed. “Look.”
She turned, and they watched an eagle rise up over the ridge, wings outstretched, riding the wind. She was magnificent, with an enormous span. She hovered for a moment before turning and dipping to the side, then soaring back down the cliff and off toward the sea.
They could hear her high-pitched call echoing off the cliff wall until it was lost to the distant sound of the waves.