Sapphire Promise by Sally Brandle

Author:Sally Brandle [Brandle, Sally]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781944232030
Publisher: Sally Brandle

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Phillip clasped Annika’s hand the next morning as they strode out of the elegant Hôtel des Indes lobby—both of them sorry to leave their sumptuous room behind. She held up her sapphire ring to catch a ray of sunshine. Memories of their night together matched the brilliance of the sparkling stone.

A row of cars waited in line to pass under the covered porte-cochère outside the glass entry doors of the stately building. Columns of stone supported the second floor of the white, hundred-year-old structure, designed so each guest suite offered a sitting room and bedroom that opened onto the veranda. Their room had overlooked Harmonie Square and Mills Canal. They hadn’t spent much time at the window.

“I see Budi three cars back,” Phillip said. “Ready to return home, sweet meisje?”

His loving smile sent shivers up her spine. “If we must.” A whistle blew, taking her away from recalling how often she’d felt those same shivers over the last twenty-four hours when Phillip had shared with her his brilliant smile and more. Warmth crept into her cheeks. Would she always blush at thoughts of their romantic moments? Who cared! She grinned and looked toward the road.

The Hôtel des Indes sentry, dressed in a pressed white uniform, blew the whistle again from his covered station. He waved vehicles in and out of the hotel drive, then signaled Budi to approach the entry. Annika climbed into the back seat while Phillip pointed out their luggage to the bellman.

Phillip slid in and draped his arm across her back. “I have four more days off. We’ll make the most of every minute.”

She tucked against his side. “While dating we’ve gone to movies or dances on Saturday nights. My family typically assembles in our living room on Saturday evenings to play instruments and sing,” she began. “Mamma invited us to join them this week, unless we have other plans.”

“My plans centered on marrying you. I’ll clap from the sideline if you’ll sing.”

“I’m a bit above caterwauling,” Annika joked. “Uncle brings his cello, Oma Elodie plays piano, and Pappie excels in violin solos. Claude may grace us with an appearance. My brothers think they can carry a tune. You can be the judge of their vocals.”

“I’d never critique a talented family. I’ll need to mesmerize you all by my clapping prowess.” He clapped using only the tips of his finger.

Annika giggled. “You’ve mesmerized me.” She tickled the top of his ear and ran her fingers through his thick, perfectly textured hair. “My voice lessons came long after ballet classes, so don’t expect a prima donna.”

“You’ve already exceeded my expectations, meisje.” He kissed her cheek. “Everything else constitutes ganache frosting on the proverbial chocolate cake.”

Annika laughed. “You do know me well.”

“More surprises greet me each day.” Phillip’s eyes shone. “I’ve been thinking. Should we visit Maggy and Newt-newt later today? I’d delight in your company and the exercise.”

“A splendid idea. I’m so grateful you share my love of animals.”

“I can’t list all the blessings I see in you.

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