The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky

Author:Carrie Turansky
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction;Christian fiction;Novels;FIC042110;FIC042040;FIC042000
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Published: 2023-07-30T00:00:00+00:00

Charlotte took Ian’s hand and stepped from the dock into a small rowboat. It rocked and swayed, and she grasped his hand more tightly.

“You can sit right here.” He guided her toward the rear wooden bench. Then he took a seat facing her on the other bench and sent her an encouraging smile.

She pulled in a deep breath to calm her jitters and looked around. Across the lake, trees lined the shore, and green and brown hills rose beyond. Sunlight sparkled on the surface of the water, blinking like little diamonds. A few other people were out in small boats, and in the distance, a larger boat chugged north.

She turned to Ian. “I’ve ridden on a ferry a few times, but I’ve never been in a small boat like this.”

He picked up the oars and attached them to the oarlocks. “I’ve been rowing across this lake since I was a boy. You’re safe with me.”

She relaxed her grip on the bench and sent him a smile.

He untied the boat and pushed away from the dock. Then he dipped the oars in the water and pulled back with smooth, strong strokes. The boat picked up speed and was soon gliding across the lake.

He obviously knew how to handle the boat. She was in strong and capable hands. Her shoulders relaxed, and she lifted her hand to shade her eyes and take in the view. The village receded behind them, and a pleasant breeze cooled her face. She turned to Ian. “Where will we have our picnic?”

He nodded to the left as he continued rowing. “We’re headed for Rampshome Island. It has a gravel spit on the north side where we can land the boat.”

She leaned to the side to look around him, and the boat dipped. She gasped, gripped the bench, and shot him a startled look.

He chuckled and lifted the dripping oars, slowing their progress. “It’s best to stay centered, unless you plan to take a swim.”

“No, thank you.” She sat up straight, balancing herself in the center of the boat. The last thing she wanted to do was to take an unexpected dip in the lake.

Ian glanced over his shoulder, adjusted the angle of the oars, and steered the boat toward a small tree-covered island. “That’s our destination.”

Charlotte scanned the small island as the gravel spit came into view. He turned the boat, came around, and headed in. The boat scraped the shore and slowed to a stop.

He brought the oars in and rose. “Let me get out first, then I’ll help you.” He grabbed the basket and blanket and set them on the gravel. Then he held out his hand to her.

She rose and took his hand. Grabbing her skirt with the other hand, she managed to climb out without getting wet or muddy.

He scooped up the basket and blanket, then took hold of her hand again, as if it were the most natural thing to do. Pleasant warmth traveled from his hand and up her arm. His fingers were a little rough, but they felt just right in hers.

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