For a moment, I flounder. “Our friendship hinges on whether or not I can swim?”
He barks a laugh from deep within his chest, the sound so arresting I nearly wobble off my stool. “If you cannot get your feet wet, I fear we won’t get along.”
“You’re jesting, aren’t you?” I realize.
Abraham’s smile is warm, hitting me like a sunbeam. “Perhaps. Would you swim with me this Sunday?”
A million thoughts flit through my head. My obligations. My family, who would not understand nor approve of my association with Abraham. The simple prospect, even, of adventuring in the creek, a place I haven’t been since my early childhood when such indulgences were still allowed.
How will I get away for a few hours? Can I manage it?
“Yes,” I tell Abraham, knowing I’ll find a way. “We’ll go to the creek.”
He smiles in answer, and I ask him more about the horses. About how he came to work here. About his life.
I don’t leave the stables until nearly midday, when I know I can’t put it off any longer without facing severe consequences. Walking away is harder than it has any right to be.
My one consolation, as I return to the only life I’ve ever known, is the promise of a few more stolen hours with Abraham.
Chapter 2
Abraham
It’s a challenge to keep my pace steady as I head toward the creek.
My feet want to run. Fly.
Jasper returned to the stables the day before last, as he said he would. But there were no long conversations to be had between us. There was barely even the chance to exchange a smile. Victor had returned to his post, and Jasper had no reason—or excuse—to linger.
I pray he’s able to meet me today. If not, well… I suppose I may get another opportunity to hear his voice when he comes to collect the carriage.
The sun shines brightly as I walk along the edge of the woods, the gurgle of water finally reaching my ears. I strain to hear any other accompanying sounds, but all is quiet. Peaceful.
I expect the bend of creek to be empty when I round the tree line, so seeing a shock of light hair has my pace stuttering to nearly a stop. Jasper turns quickly, having caught me fromthe corner of his eye. His wariness immediately settles. And then he smiles.
Oh, but he’s beautiful.
I’m well aware men are not meant to think such things about each other, but I can’t help it. I’ve never set eyes on someone as absolutely lovely as him.
His hair is golden in the sun. His skin pale and near flawless. He’s fine-featured and fine-boned. And his eyes…the deepest, most fathomless blue.
If he knew what I thought of him, would he still smile at me so?
“Abraham.” The relief is evident in his voice.
“Did you think me someone else?” I ask, continuing my walk to where Jasper is standing, my heart beating heavily beneath my rib cage.
He tugs at the sleeve of his coat. He must be sweltering in it. “For a moment, yes. I’m grateful it is you.”
I blow out a small breath, the pressure beneath my ribs too great.
“Have you been waiting long?” I ask, reaching him at last.
“No, not at all. I… I hope you don’t mind, but I brought a small loaf of bread to share.” He indicates the wrapped bundle on the ground beside him with a nervous flick of his hand.
“Jasper…” I manage, more appreciative than he could possibly know. “That’s incredibly kind of you. Thank you.”
He smiles shyly, and my heart aches at the sight. “Would you…like some now?”
