Reminiscence (Statera Saga Book 1) by Amy Marie

Author:Amy Marie [Marie, Amy]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: CreateSpace
Published: 2017-04-03T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 16

Birds sing to the rhythm of the flowing water.

Glancing up from my book at the picturesque landscape, I bask in the sunlight at my favorite spot on the riverbank.

Wondering what brought me here, I stand up and notice that I’m hindered by a voluminous petticoat and skirt.

Dreaming again.

At least I’m getting better at recognizing it.

Looking around, the desire builds to cross the stones and explore the other side where I first saw Darcy. Here in my dream, I remember that this river borders my fath–no, Eleanor’s father’s land.

My slippered feet hop from stone to stone, hampered by my attire as I attempt to hold up my skirts and cross the path of stones. About halfway through, I look up and spot Darcy staring at my progress from the opposite bank with an amused look on his face.

I ought to be embarrassed by how much of my legs are showing since he is obviously looking. But irritation begins to outweigh any embarrassment when I glimpse the smirk on his face.

“Would you care for some assistance, my lady?” he asks with an exaggerated bow.

I attempt to reply, but realization dawns that this is the replay of a memory, and I have no control.

Seconds later, I hear myself respond, “Mr. Hughes, I do realize that my dearest friend, Gabriel, has given in to his soft-hearted tendencies to take in stray pets when he brought you here to live. But that does not give you the right to ogle me like a wild animal.”

Laughter fills my head internally at the wit of my kindred spirit, and the look on Darcy’s face.

How long after the two of them met did this memory take place? There’s an obvious lack of fondness. Yet, gauging Darcy’s reaction, I see a challenge more than anger or disdain in his manner.

“Ms. Hutchinson, perhaps you have offended me in your unladylike display? Most gentle women of your stature would certainly not lift their skirts so easily in the presence of a man. Or perhaps you were looking to lure in and trap a wild animal under there?” He flashes a roguish smile.

In reaction to his offense, I drop my skirts in a huff. I’m just about to give him a piece of my mind when my foot catches on the petticoat, and I lose my footing on the mossy stone.

Everything seems to happen in slow motion as I comically see his face turn from ridicule, to surprise, to concern, when my balance is lost and I plunge into the river.

“Eleanor!” The last thing I hear before the whooshing dunk of water is Darcy’s fearful voice, calling my name.

Beneath the surface, I struggle with the layers and layers of fabric from my dress that are weighing me down to the point of sinking. I kick with all my might to make progress toward the light of the surface. But despite my best efforts, I can’t seem to break through.

Suddenly in my mind’s eye, I recall my similar drowning dream. I hope that my flailing limbs will avoid the crushing grasp that I fear may come.

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