Taken by Storm by Donna Fletcher

Author:Donna Fletcher [Fletcher, Donna]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Highland
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

A knock at the cabin door broke them apart, and Burke bid the caller to enter.

“Supper will be ready shortly, sir,” Douglas said. “May I see to preparing the cabin?”

“I could use some fresh air,” Storm said and grabbed her bonnet and jacket.

Twilight was claiming the horizon as Storm emerged on the deck of the ship. She wanted a brief distance between her and Burke, but he would have none of that, reaching out and hooking her arm in his.

“You don’t run from me, Storm. It’s your memories that chase you.”

She grew annoyed and tried to yank her arm free, but his grip was too strong.

“Get mad if you wish, but you’re not going anywhere. You’ll stay here beside me.”

“Is that a command?”

“Must it be? I offer my friendship, my concern, my empathy for your plight. I do not wish to see you go off alone to suffer your memories. Share them with me so that your pain is eased.”

No one had so bluntly offered such friendship to her. Her men cared for and respected her, but none dared speak so boldly to her. Burke spoke his mind and made no excuses for it. He wore his honesty as boldly as he spoke it, and, strangely enough, his direct manner comforted her.

“I have not shared memories of my husband with anyone since his death.”

“Then I say it is about time you do. It is good for the soul to release its burden now and again, and I daresay your burden has been a heavy one to bear.”

The twilight glistened off his dark brown eyes and highlighted the few wrinkles that fanned the corners of his eyes. She favored the thin lines, for they spoke of a man who had weathered the elements and survived, a man strong in nature and conviction.

“Daniel would have liked you.” Her remark surprised her for it was the truth.

“I believe I would have liked Daniel. Tell me more of him.”

Storm had shared laughter and tears with Burke by the time they returned to the cabin for supper. He had been right—speaking of her husband had served as a catharsis for her, finally allowing her to shed some of her pent-up pain.

She was enthralled by the lavish display that had been prepared. Pewter plates and goblets dressed a table draped in fine white linen while a white china tureen was the centerpiece of the table. The smell of fresh fish stew permeated the air along with freshly baked bread, and an array of cheeses and fruits.

It was enough food to feed her entire camp for a whole day.

She shed her bonnet and jacket and took the seat Burke held out for her.

“I know your thoughts and I will see that your camp is adequately supplied with food for the coming winter. Tonight, however, you will enjoy this meal without guilt.”

She smiled. “You know me well, Mr. Longton.”

“Of course I do, Mrs. Longton.”

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