Gavin stayed next to her, rubbing her back until her breathing returned to normal. But when she looked up, his heart nearly stopped. She had a look of despair such that he’d never seen. And then she confided in him. “I’m scared, Gavin.”

“Of what? This is what we’ve waited for.”

“I know,” Gwendolyn cried. “But what if…what if it doesn’t work? What if he doesn’t like me?”

“Surely you jest,” Gavin said. He was shocked that she’d even think such a thing.

“Jest? You think I jest, Gavin? It’s been over three weeks since he left. What if he changed his mind?”

“You’re out of your mind, Gwen!”

“Am I?”

“Aye, you are. That you’d even ask such a thing is completely out of your character.”

“Put yourself in my place, Gavin. Wouldn’t you be just a little unsure?”

“Nay,” he cried. “I was with him that night, and it all but killed him to walk away from you.” Angered, he grabbed her shoulders and made her look at him. “You’ll get yourself together now, lady, and hold your head high as you so naturally do. I’ve never known a woman stronger than you, and your insecurity will cease.” Gavin knew he was being harsh, but he couldn’t stand to see her this way.

“You must trust me, Gwendolyn.” He loosened his hold, but when she still seemed unsure, he pulled her into his arms, and she rested her head against his chest as he continued. “Greylen will love you, Gwen, as he always has, as we all do. He’s the most honorable man I’ve ever known, and he’ll be thrilled with you. Every vexing oddity you possess, every outrageous demand, every annoying nuance, every— Did you just pinch me?”

“Aye,” Gwen confessed, obviously feeling somewhat better, and smiled once again. “Thanks, Gavin.”

“You’re welcome,” he replied, giving her a squeeze.

“You need a bath, Gavin,” she told him. But her actions belied her words as she held him closer.

“You could use the very same yourself. Shall we finish our run?”

“Aye.” She nodded and pulled him back as he started to run ahead. “Gavin,” she said. “How much time do I have before he’s here?”

Gavin stared at her for a minute—then he turned and ran as fast as he could. “Two hours,” he called behind him. “Mayhap.”

He never looked back, because he knew if Gwen caught up, she would surely kill him now.

Chapter 13

She was wearing a wedding gown.

Gwen couldn’t seem to let go of the statement that kept repeating in her mind.

My God, she was wearing a wedding gown!