Our eyes met, and for a brief moment, my pulse raced. His face was rife with emotions, and I wondered how many of them had to do with his lack of sleep. When he looked away, he chuckled. “Perhaps I didn’t think this through. I was shocked, after all, when I saw you in that roadside inn. A man might agree to foolish things when he’s…bewildered.”
I laughed. “I did take full advantage of your bewilderment.”
He smiled tiredly. “Sleep well, Miss Findlay. Miss Patrice, I wish you a good rest.”
“And you, Mr. Ashby,” we responded simultaneously.
Patrice followed me into my room and helped me get ready for bed. We were both so used to our maid-and-lady relationship, it was only natural that she’d do so. But as she tied my nightgown at the neck, I realized that things would have to change on this trip.
“You know, Patrice, I think you should start acting like my companion instead of my lady’s maid. I won’t be living in luxury aboard a ship and will need to do things on my own.” I held her hands in mine. “And I will need a friend much more than a maid.”
She squeezed my hands, then looked around us. “Are ye sure ye’ll be able to sleep in this room?”
“As I said, we will have to get used to such accommodations. I doubt things will be better than this aboarda brigantine.”
“Aye, ’tis possible. Perhaps we shouldnae have come, Miss. Mr. Ashby would’ve done the job well enough.”
I scoffed. “Please, Patrice. Do not insult my pride in such a way. No one will do a better job at bringing Graham home than I.”
She pulled up a corner of her mouth, smirking. “Aye, Miss. Whatever ye say.”
After she left, I opened the beige curtain hanging over the window. I had a good view of the harbor. The sun had come out, and the light made the water glitter like jewels. Suddenly Leith didn’t seem so shabby. Even so, the sight of the shining water made my stomach flip. From the moment I’d left home until now, I hadn’t had time to myself, to truly think about what I would face upon the seas. I swallowed against the fear and uncertainty. But as I stared out into the unknown, a ship sailed past. Its sails looked bright and majestic against the blue sky. Inexplicably, the fear vanished, and only excitement remained.
Chapter 5
Imusthavefallenasleep,though I hadn’t been sure I could. I woke up mid-afternoon at the sound of knocking at my locked door. I let Patrice inside; she had come with a bowl and a pitcher of warm water.
“Just set it down and relax. I can ready myself,” I told her.
It was a struggle to get myself into my dress; it was rare I had do to it myself and the buttons were awkwardly placed on my back. Patrice suppressed a laugh, but the mocking smile on her face did not escape my notice.
“May I please help ye, Miss?” she asked after I let out an annoyed breath.
“I should have brought a dress I could button on my own.” I fiddled with the buttons a bit more and finally was able to get them done up. “There. See? I didn’t need your help after all.”
Patrice tsked. “Ye need not try tae do everythin’ on yer own, Miss. Iamyer lady’s maid. Why wouldnae I keep doin’ what I’ve always done?”
I sat by the bowl and pitcher and poured water. “If I admit to feeling guilty for dragging you into this, will you believe me?”
“I’ll nae believe a word ye say.”
“Patrice…” I said with disappointment.
“If ye truly feel guilty, just let me do what gives me peace and purpose.” She handed me a cloth. “But if it will make ye feel better, you can wash yer own face.”
I grinned at her and took the cloth gratefully.
Once I was finished, I packed my own bag and went downstairs with Patrice. We found Mr. Ashby entering the inn. His expression seemed off, like something had happened to put him in a poor mood. I approached him while Patrice found a table for us.
“Did something upset you?” I asked him.
His smile was thin as if forced. “Not in the least. How did you sleep?”
I frowned. “Let’s not do that.”
“What are you referring to? Should I not ask how well you slept?” He looked thoughtful for a moment. “Perhaps that is too intimate. Would you prefer I ask if your room was comfortable? No, perhaps that is going too far. Shall I wonder if you have decided not to come?” He pulled up a corner of his mouth.
“Not a chance. And, if you must know, I slept much better than I expected. The room was plenty comfortable. You need not worry about asking anything too personal. I am not a private person, in general.” I motioned to the table Patrice had acquired for us. “Shall we sit? You can tell me all about what is bothering you.”
