But his arm shot across the door frame, blocking her retreat. He looked into her turbulent eyes, and, suddenly grabbing her, crushed her in his arms. His lips were upon hers as he smothered her with a bruising kiss.
For a fleeting moment, as their lips came together, there was enchantment, an enchantment that lifted Katherine higher than her place at Wistmere. But it was a place that was too high, a place she didn’t belong. She couldn’t breathe, and she struggled free, scurrying through the portal.
Garth watched her dart through the fields like a frightened doe and smiled.
Harried and breathless, Katherine charged into her room. Why hadn’t she slapped him? No, she couldn’t have done that. There was something dangerous about him, something more unsettling than his claim to the manor, and the danger was to her. Yet she also realized that she had welcomed his advance. His savage kiss excited her. She looked in the mirror. She never regarded herself as pretty nor could she ever be in love. Love was a luxury that she had, out of survival, denied herself. The few men that she had allowed into her life proved to be dishonorable rakes. They assumed that, because of her tawny skin and lower station in life, she would be desperate for their attentions, allowing them to have their way. And there were those who had tried to force themselves on her. Tears of embarrassment and futility ran down her face.
* * *
It wasn’t easy for May-Jewel to begin her letter to Jeremy. Her aggravation over things that Alex had said or implied while they were in the gazebo stayed with her, unsettling her mind. Then, too, the way she and Jeremy parted wasn’t on a very pleasant note for furthering their relationship. How do I entreat him, she wondered, the tip of her pen poised over the blank piece of paper. Flirtatiously? Hmmm. That never worked before. Maybe it’s time for a more womanly approach, a more humble approach. So with some trepidation, she started writing what she was certain he wanted to hear.
My Dearest Jeremy,
Forgive my anger during our last hours together. You were right to deny me your company on such an impulsive journey. I realize mine was an immature decision and I should have given way to your wisdom. But I am here now, and I miss you and long to be with you. The nights are unbearable and the days are long and empty.
She paused, debating whether to proceed. This wasn’t like her. She would never have apologized for any decision she made. Still, she would write what she had to in order to get him to come to her. She continued writing,
My leaving you has made me realize what a mistake I’ve made. If you were here, my heart would know its master and respond only as a lover should. Please, dear one, come to me and let us build anew on the love that we once shared.
Most affectionately,
Your May-Jewel
It made her uncomfortable to have written such a submissive letter. If it weren’t for the protection and the help he might offer, she wouldn’t have written at all. Before folding it, she reread it. Will he think I’m sincere? Will he come? Do I really want him to come? Not having any answers, there was nothing left to do but have Charles post it.
* * *
After getting locked in the vault, suffering again the memories of her past with her return to the cottage, and the emotional upheaval of Garth’s kiss, Katherine had little patience for anyone, especially May-Jewel and Alex. She was still upset with Garth and his open advances on her. And she was in no frame of mind to tolerate another hour or so of senseless chatter. As she entered the dining room, she knew, however, that she would now have to deal with all of them. But to her surprise, neither Alex nor Garth were there. She relaxed in the hope that neither would be coming down to dinner.
May-Jewel entered and seeing only her sister there, she announced, a bit too strongly, “I’ve written a letter to Jeremy. How long do you think it will take for my letter to reach Boston? You should have read it. My words were tender and inviting without being forward. He’ll come. I’m sure! But I’ll need a new dress, one he hasn’t seen. I want to look more beautiful than ever when he arrives. Do you suppose there’s a dressmaker in the village?”
Katherine came out of herself and, anxious to keep May-Jewel’s thoughts on Jeremy, offered, “Why don’t I make your dress? I have all that’s needed, including a bolt of the loveliest blue summer linen that will enhance the color of your eyes.”
May-Jewel’s happy expression darkened as she saw Alex enter the dining room. “How nice! Of course you can sew a new dress for me.” Dare she add “for when Jeremy arrives” she wondered? But thinking that might be a bit too much, she closed her mouth.
Katherine smiled, knowing that she and May-Jewel would now be thrown together in private for fittings that would last for hours, hours that May-Jewel wouldn’t be spending under the influence of Alex.
Alex poured himself a drink. His manner was cocksure and bold as he raised his glass in greeting. “Our ‘guest’ hasn’t come down as yet, I see. Could it be that he’s decided to end the charade and leave before I tire of him and his sham?”
At that moment Garth entered. Katherine studied his solid build and confident movement. He didn’t swagger like Alex. His steps were straight and sure. And so was his gaze. It was directed toward her.
“Mister Craig,” Alex said, bowing in mock honor. He fabricated his next statement, hoping
