“He’s the top Blue!” McMillion grins. “The Life Guards have a six-year winning streak, but this year we were closer than ever to the top prize. We’ll claim it next time.”
The riders are asked to dismount. I watch Sam swing over the side of his horse and land on his feet with a heavy thud. The scabbards holding the troopers’ swords clang to the ground.
“You’d think those would be shorter,” I say.
“Ha. I wish they were. They’re a right pain to wear and carry around, but at least they’re mercifully shorter than the ones the officers wear.” McMillian stands, as do the other members of our party. “The guys will assemble outside.”
Like ducklings following their mother, we trail McMillianoutside. There’s a strong scent of hay and horses in the air.
Soldiers holding their helmets tucked under their arms are chatting amongst one another as other soldiers dressed in camo see to the horses.
We look for the group of Blues. I see Sam receiving several pats on the back. The atmosphere is cheerful.
“Brother!” Celine calls out, leaving us to run up to him.
He spins around and flashes a smile that causes my legs to weaken. Forget Tom Cruise in navy whites—Sam in cavalry blues is a million and one times more handsome.
“Celine! You’re here! I thought I heard your voice, but I wasn’t sure.” He bends down and swoops her into a hug, dropping his helmet and sword. McMillian and I wince. “Who else have you brought with you?”
“Minerva planned it. Sarah’s here and Grandad Baker and her friend Liz and Chester, and...”
“Mr. G and his family,” I add.
Sam’s eyes meet mine. They’re full of gratitude. I wink at him. As much as I’d love to kiss him senseless, I want to make sure that his sisters and his dad have the first opportunity to congratulate him. I stand to the side with Liz, McMillian, and the Gronendyke family.
“Son, well done, indeed.”
“Dad.” Sam turns to the man who stands a hair shorter than him and claps him on the back.
Mr. Baker is in his late sixties, and has thinning salt-and-pepper hair and a neat beard. When I met him earlier this morning, he was polite, but I could tell I’d caught him off guard. In the business of planning today’s gathering, nobody had remembered to inform him Sam had a girlfriend. I hope with time, we’ll warm to one another.
I focus on my boss. “Thank you for coming today, Mr. G.”
“Minerva, I’ll never turn down the opportunity to come to an event like this. There is no sight better than seeing all the young lads turned out so well. They’realmostup to par with the Grenadiers.”
McMillian coughs. “Sir, I think what you intended to say is the foot guards arealmostup to par with the mounted regiments.”
Mrs. G shakes her head and ignores her husband. Her attention turns to me. “The entire family has had a wonderful time. Thank you for inviting us.”
We become so deeply engrossed in a conversation about fascinators and today’s fashion that I don’t realize until I feel the weight of a hand on my shoulder that Sam’s joined us.
“Ladies.” He inclines his head.
“Sam!” I wrap my arms around him, but I have a hard time with the bulk of his metal cuirass, cross belt, and other bulky items on his uniform. “Oh, I’m gonna leave fingerprints all over this.” I try to release him, but he doesn’t let go of me.
“The judging is over. I don’t care two bits about any bloody fingerprints if it means having you in my arms.”
He picks me up and spins me around. I’m laughing wildly. “I’m so proud of you.” I kiss him when we’re finally back on solid ground.
Mr. G suddenly clears his throat and I’m reminded we’re not alone. We break apart, and Sam’s playful features return to those of a composed, seasoned soldier.
“Sam, er, Trooper Baker, this is my boss and his family.”
“Sir.” Sam inclines his head.
He graciously thanks them for coming, and spends ashort time chatting with McMillian and Liz before he steals me away to a private corner.
“I knew you’d be here today, but I never imagined I’d have so many other supporters too.” He tickles the soft spot under my chin. “Do I have you to thank for arranging their arrival?”
