Four days later, as the bedraggled group turned onto the path that led to Tidelands, Bengie put his horse to a gallop and flew toward the house. Ceressa, with April seated before her, turned to Latimer. They shared a look, Ceressa lifting a silent prayer that Bengie’s heart wouldn’t be broken. After all that had happened, to discover that Mariette had died would be more than any of them could bear
The wondering was agonizing and when at last the house came into view, Ceressa slowed her horse. Latimer did the same and gave her a questioning look.
“I’m so afraid, Latimer. If Mariette—”
“Leave this in the Lord’s hands, my love.”
“But she saved my life.”
“Let the Lord work His will, Ceressa.”
“Why do you choose this moment to speak as a minister?”
“I don’t have to be a minister to know that we have to trust our Savior.”
She wanted to rail and weep and demand answers from God.
Latimer reached out and cupped her chin. “Have faith, Ceressa.”
She folded her hand over his and gave him a watery smile. Resolved, she urged her horse forward, Latimer moving behind her.
When they reached the front entrance, all of Tidelands was gathered. Handing April to Mrs. Arston, she quickly dismounted, aware of the curious eyes that swept the boy’s garb that had replaced her indecent chemise but was concerned only with discovering Mariette’s fate. Shoving her way through, she suddenly stopped. There before her stood Bengie, his arms about a very-much alive Mariette, kissing her face and her lips. Heat suffused Ceressa as she realized that she and Latimer had engaged in a very similar reunion on the ship that had taken them from James Cittie, certainly giving the passengers something to talk about. She started toward the couple until a hand gently fastened on her arm. Turning her head, she saw that it was Latimer.
“There’ll be an opportunity to speak with Mariette later. Give them this time.” Tears sprang into Ceressa’s eyes, tears of relief and thankfulness. Latimer pulled her against him and pressed his lips to the top of her head. God had brought them safely home.
****
A ragged, red welt on her temple was the visible evidence of Mariette’s encounter with the rebel’s bullet. Miraculously, it had only grazed her, and Mrs. Arston said she’d roused shortly after Ceressa and April’s departure. Ceressa, her hunger now sated, her body soothed and steamed clean by a much-needed bath, and decently clad, watched the couple through the open French doors of Latimer’s library as they strolled among the roses. There was no doubt that a wedding would be forthcoming in a matter of weeks. Turning away lest she accidentally observe a private moment, she smiled at Latimer who was slowly spinning the globe.
“I hope you’re not planning any more adventures.” He looked up at her words and returned her smile. She settled in a worn, but comfortable, armchair.
“I’ve had quite enough of that. Home is where I want to be.” A gentle warmth spread through Ceressa as she met his gaze filled with love. She now realized his eyes had often reflected his love, but she’d been too consumed with her own problems so see it. How many other things had she missed?
“Do you think it’s over?”
Latimer shook his head and her heart sank. “Far from over, love.”
“Latimer, there’s something you should know.”
“You wrote to my father.”
“Yes, but how…did Torrence tell you?”
“He did. And he also apologized for the part he played in my disgrace at Exeter.”
“What? Are you serious?”
“Quite serious.
“I suppose I should apologize.”
“But you aren’t in the least bit sorry. Thank you.”
“Why are you thanking me?” Could the day hold any more surprises?
“For rescuing me from the governor.”
“I could have cheerfully throttled Sir William and not suffered one moment of remorse.” Without thinking, she lifted her chin.
“Do I detect a hint of ferocity?”
“Indeed, you do. It will serve as a warning not to take me lightly.”
“After witnessing your swordsmanship and having experienced it first hand, I assure you, milady, I will never take you lightly. And I will willingly surrender any time you feel it necessary to employ your skills. I am in your hands.”
Ceressa laughed. It felt good to laugh. There had been so much sadness of late, and so many people had seen their dreams reduced to rubble and ash. How blessed were she and Latimer to be home, surrounded by the people they loved and who loved them. How blessed they were to have been brought through such perilous events with only a few cuts, scratches, and bruises.
“And I am also grateful that you made me see the truth. You are an amazing woman.”
“I thank you, as well.”
He arched a dark brow. “For?” he asked as he moved away from the globe and walked over to where she sat. Kneeling before her, he took her hand in his.
“For teaching me the skills I needed to survive in this land that you love. For making me feel special that summer when I was an awkward, uncertain young girl fearful of approaching womanhood.” Placing her other hand along Latimer’s once more cleanly shaven jaw, she drew upon his strength. “I knew then that I would love you forever.”
He pressed his mouth against her palm, the earlier warmth she’d felt now replaced by a less subtle heat. Raising his head, he met her gaze, his eyes filled with tender passion.
“I have a confession,” he said huskily. “I also wrote to my father.”
Ceressa giggled.
“You find that amusing?”
“I should’ve known you’d do the honorable thing. And to think I ever doubted.”
“There’s one thing I’ll not have you doubt ever again.” He drew her to her feet. “I believe by now Mrs. Arston and Libby will have moved all of your things across the hall. Which I hope is agreeable to you?”
Wild elation filled her and, without considering her actions, she rose up on her toes and kissed him.