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She chuckled. “Oh, I wish you would not constantly make me laugh.”
“Why? Nothing enchants me more than hearing that little burbling sound, like a little cheerful waterfall one discovers on a hot and thirsty walk. You are like that to me.” Eyes tender with sincerity, he drew her close once more.
Another moment passed before she finally pulled away, breathless. “I’m all rumpled now.”
“You simply look like you have been thoroughly kissed.”
“What?” She patted her hair, straightened her bonnet.
“My dear, you look beautiful.” He drew his knuckles gently down her cheek before cupping her chin loosely. “I find you most appealing.” His lips found her skin again.
Well, he’d certainly given that impression in this past week.
The horses slowed and Stapleton Court came into view. Arrangements beyond spending a night or so here remained to be sorted, and tension rose higher in her chest. But at the squeeze of his hand on hers she felt calm again. How different things seemed, knowing she was beloved, and that this brave man would both stand beside her and protect and guide her. Her shoulders eased.
“Are you ready, Mrs. Balfour?”
“To face the general and Mama?”
“And dear Becky. I hope she has forgiven me for using her name in vain.”
“She is hardly the Almighty, so she should not take things too close to heart. I should hope she does not see our escapade as one to emulate.”
“Not everyone can make their perfect match in a run across the border. Only the most adventuresome, the most courageous, and most blessed.”
“Most blessed, indeed,” she murmured, smiling at him in sweet contentment.
For how else could she have married this man, except that God had brought them together to walk this untrodden path into the dawn of a new day, a new life, and God’s glorious light and future.
