“Of course I don’t mind.” She studied the lean, elegant length of him and couldn’t help but think of the strong body that lay under his well-tailored garments. They’d seen each other’s scars the night before: the ugly parallel burn marks on her leg from when she was knocked onto the burning hot grate. The jagged, alarming scar on his left shoulder and back from the near lethal wound he’d suffered in the navy. Seeing their pasts written on their flesh, which was another kind of intimacy.

Aloud, she said, “How long until you visit the infirmary again?”

He chuckled. “Not long. I plan to work there regularly.”

“I need to be doing something useful,” Kendra said thoughtfully. “I wonder if Zion House could use an inexperienced volunteer. I could work with children, perhaps.”

“Mention your interest in volunteering to Lady Kirkland and you’ll be there the next morning teaching little children their letters,” Lucas assured her.

“That sounds very satisfying.” And being busy would keep her from brooding on her situation. She’d done too much of that before she met Lucas. Now that she’d decided to move on with her life, helping those less fortunate seemed a good way to help herself as well.

Her life really was getting better. It was a novel and very welcome thought.

* * *

As their coach rolled up the drive to Camden Keep, Kendra sat up and stretched her limbs in various directions. Lucas loved watching her and looked forward to seeing her fence at Angelo’s. She had grace and strength like a great cat, and like a lioness, she protected her children and others whom she loved.

As she straightened her skirts, she said, “When we came through before, it was too difficult to speak of my search to learn the truth about Caitlin, but now that I know she’s alive and well, I want to share the good news. I also feel that I owe your aunt and uncle an explanation for taking advantage of their hospitality. I presume they can be trusted to keep the story to themselves?”

Lucas nodded. “Being a British Resident at an Indian royal court is like being an ambassador. Discretion is second nature. Just ask them to keep it private and they will.”

The coach halted at the Keep and Lucas and Kendra climbed out and were admitted to the house. They found their hosts in the family drawing room. “What good timing,” Aunt Anna said warmly as she rose. “We’ll be having tea soon.”

“After I’ve visited the Magdalene,” Uncle William added. “I was about to go out. Would you like to join me, Lucas? She’s always particularly happy to see you.”

When he hesitated, Kendra said, “Go along with your uncle and give the Magdalene my regards. I’ll call on her later.” Turning to his aunt, she said, “I’d like to tell you of our successful journey.”