Monroe nodded. “It is the perfect place for it.”
Diana bit her lip, looking disappointed. Sebastian needed to figure out a way she could swim without worrying about her clothing. Maybe Monroe’s attendant had a solution. Everyone rose to make their way to the other saloons. Sebastian hung back and made his way to where Porcu was removing plates.
“Good evening. May I have a word?”
The small man’s eyes widened, alarmed. “Is something wrong?”
Sebastian smiled reassuringly. “No, not at all. I was wondering if you could help me with something in Sardinia. I need to find a secluded location by the water.”
Porcu frowned as if he was up to something lecherous. For once, Devons wasn’t. He wanted Diana to be able to swim. He decided to tell him the truth. “I need a place where Lady Hensley can enjoy the water, alone. She can’t swim with the rest of the men.”
Porcu nodded, understanding. “I will arrange it for you.”
“You have a spot?”
The man beamed. “I know the perfect one.”
Sebastian made his way to the main saloon, delighted with his plan. He spied Diana and their group in the far back corner. Diana was waving her hands frantically and everyone else was calling things out. He smirked, somewhat in disbelief he spent most of his nights on this trip playing innocent games like charades. Diana scowled and placed her hands on her hips, seemingly frustrated. He walked over.
Spoor yelled, “Tree.”
“Yes!” Diana exclaimed.
Everyone cheered and Diana traded places with Spoor. Devons joined her on the sofa. She smiled at him before turning her attention back to the game. Devons studied her. Tonight, her hair was falling down her back in soft curls, and she wore the lightest-pink dress. His eyes wandered to her throat where a jewel hung off a piece of lace. She was bewitching.
“Devons, do you have a guess?” Spoor demanded.
He pulled his gaze away from Diana’s neck. “Mermaid.”
Spoor gasped. “Are you even listening?”
Laughter escaped Diana. Sebastian looked at her and she shrugged in return. Finally, Lady Clark declared Spoor was pretending to be a bear. Utter ridiculousness, he thought. But right now, he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else, including the Den. His eyes drifted back to Diana. He reassured himself he was happy to have her friendship, nothing more.
Later that night, Sebastian pulled the cravat from his neck. He smiled at his latest letter.
To the Ladies of London,
We witnessed magic early this morning. It’s easy to understand how sailors throughout history have sworn they have seen mermaids. Elegant and mischievous dolphins are likely what they saw. These enchanting creatures rode by the ship for almost an hour jumping and flipping. I daresay both Lady Hensley and I were speechless.
Malaga was a wonderful stop for our trip. We learned the art of Spanish dancing, and I might be bragging, but I think I was rather decent. The city is filled with Roman ruins that both Lady Hensley and I enjoyed. For ladiestraveling with husbands, there are plenty of clubs where a drink can be had or a game played.
While I have liked all of our ports, more and more, ocean travel has grown on me. I’ve made many friends on this adventure. Lady Hensley has taught this man that fun can be had anywhere.
Sebastian Devons
Chapter Eighteen
Sardinia—Early July 1850
Diana and Devonsrode in the back of a wagon being driven by ship attendant Porcu. She’d never ridden in a wagon before and initially had been somewhat reluctant, but Devons convinced her. The man had dangled a mysterious surprise in front of her. They’d departed from Messina’s estate in Sardinia, where they were staying along with the rest of their group.
It was a stunning piece of property. The large stone manor was situated on a cliff that overlooked crashing waves. Messina had promised her she would be mesmerized, and he hadn’t disappointed. They turned down a steep road and Diana clutched onto Devons’s arm. He squeezed her hand reassuringly. Porcu glanced back at them. “Trust me. It will be worth it.”
“We will be fine,” Devons said.
They reached the bottom, and the road spilled out into a cove area. The water was crystal turquoise. Diana walked closer to where the water rushed up the beach, considering taking her shoes off to put her feet in. Porcu motioned for Devons to come with him.
“I’ll be right back,” Devons said to her.
