Page 15 (1/2)

She cocked her face at him and considered this “Yes … especially as I haven’t eaten since a piece of toast early this ”

“My poor dear, why is that?”

They had by this tiun to think of hi, and he saw her seated Felicia looked up at him and suddenly knew: he did not believe that she and Scott were brother and sister Why he didn’t believe it, she could not say

She would have to be careful What did he think? She felt herself blush as she realized what it ht she and Scott were lovers … eloping!

~ Six ~

>FELICIA FOUND HERSELF staring up into silver glitter full with secrets and was uard Well, she told herself, that wasn’t quite fair, as she had her own secrets

She looked away and studied the sarden rought iron chairs and tables, lit up with garden torches It washer, and butterflies took flight in her stomach

The roorate She had never dined alone with a man, other than Scott, and this was a completely new experience for her She felt intimidated by it all and chewed her bottom lip

She knew shehair all windblown and her si ensemble covered now in dried blood She had no other clothes with her How could they ever present themselves to Scott’s aunt in their present circumstances?

He offered her a sotten yourself into a fine mess, and you have, child, you have”

She put up her chin “I am not a child”

He chuckled and inclined his head “Oh, are you not? Do forgive me Perhaps the breeches made me think so?”

She blushed furiously and said nothing to this, and he said softly, “Come, then, we shall call a truce and enjoy some honest conversation while ait your meal and my brandy, Miss … ah, is it like Scott’s—Hanover?”

“Oh?” she asked “Are you not hungry?”

“I have just only come from dinner, but I will join you with some cheese and brandy Now, if you would be so kind as to answer my question, is your surname … like Scott … Hanover?”