Leaving Waverly by Sara R. Turnquist

Author:Sara R. Turnquist
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sara R. Turnquist

Stepping into the oversized entryway, Lauren smiled to herself. The warmth of Tom's embrace still lingered. And the skin of her forehead tingled where his lips had pressed a farewell kiss. How she had wanted him to truly kiss her. Why did he hold back?

But he was a gentleman and pulled away after the simple contact that affected her more than she would have imagined possible.

Moving toward the stairs, she sighed.

“You are not to see that boy again.” The voice was gruff, coming from the shadows at the doorway to the far hall.

Lauren paused, foot already on the first step. She didn’t have to look in that direction to know it was her father.

“I will not suffer this humiliation.” His voice was stern.

Removing her hand from the banister, Lauren faced the darkened figure. “You cannot cage me forever, Father.”

He stepped into the fading light of the day, streaming in through the window. His features twisted into an angry grimace. “Do not forget yourself, young lady. You are my daughter. And as long as you wish to live under the protection of my name, you will do as I say.”

Lauren met, and held, his stony gaze. There would come a day she would have to stand up to this man. Had that day come? She swallowed against an impossibly dry mouth and opened her lips to speak.

Nothing came.

She dropped her head, looking to the floor. Why couldn’t she say her peace to him? Tell him she cared not for his position nor this fine house?

His features relaxed. “You may be excused.” Pa turned and moved toward the hall leading to the family parlor. “Please prepare for dinner. I don’t want your mother to be embarrassed by your dress.”

Her face warmed. Say something. Speak your heart! “I will take dinner in my room.”

He spun. His eyes hard on her once more. After a few moments, he nodded. “As you wish. But remember what I said.”

Biting at her lip, she looked at the lowering sun outside the window. The clipping of his shoes on the floor let her know he had moved off down the hall.

Once the sound faded, she whirled and raced up the stairs.

What cowardice! How could she face Tom again? Could she not stand up to her father for her heart? For the man she loved? She was hopeless.

Jerking her door open, she slammed it for good measure. Then flung herself upon her bed. What would become of her and Tom? The plan that had begun to form in her mind, a dangerous plan indeed, seemed to lose form and substance in the face of her timidity. It could not be done.

God, I need Your strength. I need Tom…to be with him. I know he will care for me. I know we can make a life together. And I know I need to be free of my father. But I am powerless to do so. Give me strength. Give me wisdom.

As she prayed, Lauren was filled anew with determination. And she knew what she had to do.

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