“I didn’t hear you complaining about the attention you were receiving, Miss Ward.” Dayton’s hand tightens on her waist, and she realizes he’s not smiling nor enjoying her teasing.
“The only attention I wanted was yours, Dayton. Your hands, your mouth, your touch. I don’t play games.”
His hand relaxes in her, and his smile reaches his eyes this time. “Thank you for stroking my ego, but I don’t blame them for seeking out the only flower amongst the weeds.”
“Dayton,” she gasps softly, “you say such beautiful things.”
He pulls her closer, ignoring everything else, “I speak the truth, Miss Ward. You’ve gone too long without it.” They ignore those around them and sway together.
“Are you packed?” he asks softly.
“I am. Do you have the tickets?”
“Yes. We’ve been so busy I meant to tell you…” he falls quiet and looks at her with trepidation. “I hope you don’t mind?”
“Mind what?” Dayton is never nervous, what’s he up too?
“I need to meet some investors in Chicago. I was able to get two tickets to Chicago, and it’s a direct shot to Kentucky.”
“Chicago?” she asks. “Of course, I understand, Dayton. I’ve kept you from your work long enough. I’ll continue on to meet my family.”
“Don’t be ridiculous, you’re coming with me.” He steps back releasing her when the song ends.
“What?” she hisses. “I can’t go to Chicago with you, Dayton.” He guides her to the punch bowl and offers her a glass.
“It’s all arranged. I don’t want you to be alone. You said that your family was going to be delayed, and this works out perfectly. My promise was to deliver you to Glenn. There is nothing to discuss as far as I’m concerned.”
Savannah stares in open-mouthed shock. Fury rushes through her body, and she’s thankful the glass is half empty. “This is the only opportunity I have to meet this group of investors, Savannah. I need to go.”
Guilt has her tamping down her anger. “Of course, but I don’t see why I have to go with you. In fact, I can think of a hundred reason why I shouldn’t.”
“If you’d trust me, I can explain on the train. It’s only a two-day delay, and I’ll return you to your family.”
“Alright, Dayton.” Savannah agrees, now isn’t the time to argue. She owes him more than she can say, perhaps she will find a way to repay him on this trip.
Eli waves to gain Dayton’s attention and he guides Savannah over to say goodbye. They are scheduled to leave on the first train in the morning.
Felicia hugs the newlyweds, and Kristin hugs Lucas while Eli turns to Savannah and Dayton.
“Savannah, you will remember your promise?” Eli demands and tears fill her eyes.
“Yes, Eli, and you will be happy. It’s what Oliver would have wanted for you.”
“Thank you doesn’t seem enough,” Eli whispers and pulls her into a hug.
“It is.”
Kristin hugs her, and they walk away while Savannah turns into Dayton’s arms to cover her tears. “I just need a minute,” she sniffs.
“Take your time.” He’s content to hold her. He could care less about the snickers and stares. Tomorrow they leave for Chicago, and he is thrilled to have her at his side.
Eli picks up his bride to the joy of everyone watching and announces they will be leaving! People pour out into the yard, and Kristin hugs Lucas who has promised to be good for the night. They have planned a honeymoon trip for later in the season. They wave goodbye, and Savannah watches this chapter of her life close.
Chapter 36
“We have reservations,” Dayton informs the ticket agent.
“Excellent sir, tickets please.” Savannah glances around the train depot and pushes back her nerves. She unconsciously pushes closer to Dayton and slips a hand through his arm.
Trains roar from the station and roll in and the noise of the people presses in on her. Savannah struggles to catch her breath. One second, she’s in the station and the next she’s back on the field pressing a dirty cloth on a hemorrhaging wound. “Help me,” the young soldier pleads and clutches at her.
Dayton feels her hand clench his arms tightly and turns to glance at her finding her pale and her eyes wide open. “Savannah!” he calls softly, and she jerks from the memory and squeezes her eyes closed.
“I’m okay,” she turns to him and straightens her spine.
“Are you sure?” he asks softly.
“Yes, thank you.” She glances at the male ticket agent who is clearly waiting on them. “Forgive me, the noise is a little overwhelming,” she explains.
“No problem, you will find the inside to be much quieter.” He hands back the punched tickets. “If you’re looking to upgrade, find a ticket agent once the train is underway.” He suggests. “Enjoy your trip.”
Dayton frowns at her in obvious concern. “Savannah, we’re traveling in a semi-private car. I was unable to get first class tickets on such short notice.”
“Dayton,” she steps closer to him and smiles when his eyes drop to her mouth. His freshly shaven face is tempting her to trace a hand over it, but she shake the urge away. “I don’t expect to be coddled. I’m used to traveling in much worse conditions than on a train.”
“Of course.” He releases her and boards making sure she’s following him.
Dayton boards and she follows close behind him; drawing in a deep breath when they enter the train. Savannah knows how to ignore the memories and is grateful to be leaving. Chicago is a place she’s never visited, and she looks forward to the new experience.
Coach consists of wooden bench seats, in close quarters. Windows flank both sides of the cars. She follows Dayton through the coach car and into the semi-private car.
Furnished black walnut inlay lined the walls,
