“Harriet!” Will rushedto where she slumped and fell down beside her. He studied her face. “What’s wrong? Are you all right? Are you hurt anywhere?”
“I’m fine.”
“If you are fine, why the hell did you collapse?”
Her cheeks were growing pink. “It’s nothing.”
Will glanced at her legs. “You said your legs were sore.”
She gave an awkward laugh. “Oh, that? That was a jest, I assure you.”
Will had assumed so himself, but now . . .
Calstone joined them. “A fever, perhaps?”
“I do not have a fever.”
“Then why are your cheeks red?” Leeds asked. He placed a palm on her forehead. “You’re not hot.”
She swatted his hand away. “That’s because I don’t have a fever. It’s just...”
“Ah,” Calstone said. “I believe I know what ails the lady.”
“What?” Leeds asked. Christ, the beat of his heart had turned damn near painful.
“Embarrassment.”
Will frowned, his gaze once more attracted to the pink that colored her cheeks. “Are you sure you are all right?” he asked again.
Harriet glared at them.
There’s the Harriet I know.Will let out a sigh of relief.
“Let me up,” she said.
He rose and held out his hand. This time she didn’t reject his help. She placed her palm in his and allowed him to pull her to her feet.
“And now all’s well that ends well,” Calstone said, dusting off his knees.
Will shook his head at his friend, though he couldn’t disagree. They had done several dangerous, reckless thingstoday that were utterly out of character for him, but he hadn’t felt he had much choice. And if Calstone hadn’t been present, they would both be on their way to Charleston now.
Will retrieved Harriet’s valise from the boat with a measure of relief.
“I shall carry what’s mine,” Harriet said, reaching out to take the bag from him.
Will evaded her hand. “No need.”
“I insist.”
“Your legs just gave out. It’s better for me to carry your bag.”
“That’s just because . . .”
Will raised a brow in query when her voice trailed off.
“Never mind, carry it if you must.”
He wanted to take her into his arms. Comfort her. Reassure her. But for the moment he would have to settle for carrying her valise.
