From the village, he traveled at a more sedate pace. After delivering the horse to the stables, he strode back to the manor, not much liking the gladness that swept through him when Lena emerged, having obviously been on the watch for his return. He didn’t want to contemplate how very much he would like to have her greet him anytime he returned from anywhere.

“Did you see all you needed to see?”

He nodded as he came to stand before her. How difficult it was not to take her in his arms and lower his mouth to hers, but it wouldn’t do at all for the servants to see anything untoward pass between them. He wanted to reach out and press the crease between her brows until it disappeared. “It’s impressive. Gorgeous really. So much space. I think after a while, however, I’d become a bit antsy.”

“Lushing liked the openness of it, but he had few fond memories of the place. His father was most strict when he was growing up. Then they had their falling-out, and it was years before he was able to return here.”

“Disappointing a father was certainly nothing I ever had to worry over.”

“Was it difficult growing up without a father?”

Slowly he shook his head. “My mum was a strong woman, like you. She was all I needed.”

Her eyes softened, her cheeks pinkened. “Even when you’re a bit put out with me, you still manage to flirt with your little compliments.”

“I’m not flirting if what I say is true.”

Her lips twitched. “More flirtation, but never mind. I feared you might not arrive in time. I want to show you something.” With her left hand, she grabbed her right, and he wondered if she’d been on the verge of taking his and had to remind herself it would not do.

He followed her inside, through a maze of hallways until eventually they came to the area where the tower loomed. The curved wall and spiral staircase told him where they were. Without stopping, she began ascending the stairs, giving him a lovely view of her backside as he trailed up behind her. At the top, she opened a door and led him out onto the crenelated walkway. When she had traversed half of it, she turned to face him, her features wreathed with a solemn joy.

“This was always my favorite part of Sheffield Hall.” She nodded away from the roofline behind them.

When he looked out, he couldn’t stop his breath from hitching at the sight of the angel gilded in late afternoon sunlight, giving the impression the wings weren’t spread to signify its protection of the manor but instead to declare, “Behold all that is glorious and beautiful!”