“Yes.”Her breathing was jerky as she tried to calm herself.
“Uncle Ash won’t let anything hurt you.”
“May I sleep in your bed?”
“Of course you may.You can protect me from my bad dreams too.”
“I will,” she said with a sad determination.
Ash looked at him and mouthed the words, “Thank you.”
She would miss Ash after he left tomorrow.They both would.They might have to start taking regular trips down to visit him.
Trent sighed as he finally settled into bed.His mind was busy, but exhaustion dragged him straight into sleep, and when next he opened his eyes, sun was just creeping around the curtains.Early enough that he could actually enjoy a few minutes in the bath.
After that, his first stop was Ash’s room.They were both still asleep, Maggie’s head resting on his shoulder, his arm wrapped protectively around her.
He closed the door quietly and walked down to Samantha’s room.She was sitting at her writing desk, drawing in her sketchbook.That couldn’t be good.
“Are you alright?”
Her radiant smile surprised him.“I’m wonderful.”
He moved closer.It was his face on the page.
“I thought it was time to sketch people who bring me joy.And pleasure,” she added quietly.She pulled her bottom lip between her teeth and pink filled her cheeks.
“I think that’s a fantastic idea.”He leaned down and pressed a kiss to her lips.“You are beautiful, Samantha.”
“Even with this short hair?”She ruffled her fingers through it.
“Especially with short hair.It reminds me how strong you are.”
“That’s unfortunate.I was going to ask you to carry me down to breakfast, for old time’s sake.”She goaded him with her smile but squealed when he scooped her up.“I was only teasing!”
Trent laughed as he carried her out of the room and down the stairs.Her cheeks flamed red as they waited for the footman to pull out her chair.
“Don’t move,” he whispered in her ear.“I’ll fill your plate for you.”
It wasn’t long before Ash entered, Maggie giggling in his arms.He put her down and dished both of their plates, asking her if she wanted each item on the sideboard.
“What time is your train?”Trent asked once they were settled.
“Are you leaving?”Samantha asked.
“I am.It’s time for me to get back.I’ll leave shortly after breakfast.”
Maggie gasped, her brow furrowed.“I want to go with you.”
Ash leaned close and spoke softly.“If you come with me, who will take care of Samantha?”
Maggie nodded.“You’re right.I’d better stay here.”But she didn’t look very happy.
“I’ll see you again soon, Poppet.”
“Perhaps we can go see him off at the train station,” Trent suggested.
That made her brighten up.“Yes!”
