Page 37 of Sweet Hellion

His hands shook as he read.

Emma,

By now, no doubt, you believe me dead. I nearly was. After the battle, I was found by the men who cleared the battlefield. They also thought me dead. Someone realized I was breathing, however, and called a doctor. I have been in the hospital since, unconscious. I know, it is too fantastical to be believed. Only three days ago I awoke, and today, I could speak well enough to ask for pen and paper.

I pray God you are well and have not mourned me terribly. I am healing well. I received your letter telling me about our father’s death. I am sorry, lass. When I return, we will visit Father’s grave together. Did he see you safely married? By now, you must have a bairn or two.

Have you met my friend Rhys? I told him to find you. He is a brave man. Ange vengeur. He saved those of us he could after Major Ross deserted us. He saved me. If not for him pulling me off the field, I would have surely died beneath the dead. I will return soon, Stinkpot. If that husband of yours is not treating you right, I will shoot him.

Love,

Your brother

Tory

Rhys stared at the letter, still unable to believe Tory was alive. He looked at her. “I am sorry.”

She frowned. “Sorry?” Emma tugged the letter free of his grasp, then looked at it. “See here?” She pointed at the lines, Ange vengeur. He saved those of us he could after Major Ross deserted us. He saved me. If not for him pulling me off the field, I would have surely died beneath the dead.

Her eyes lifted to his face. “He says you saved him.”

“But—”

She stepped closer and placed a finger on his lips. “It isn’t your fault.” She gave him a gentle smile. “You saved him. Saved me.”

He caught her to him. “Marry me.”

She shook her head and opened her mouth to say no, but he kissed her again. When he broke the kiss, he said, “We have to get started on those bairns Tory thinks you have.”

“Are you certain?” she asked.

Rhys hugged her close. “The moment we arrive at Blackstone Abbey, I will procure a license.”

She looked up at him and smiled. Rhys was certain he’d never seen any woman more beautiful.