Page 110 of A Castaway in Cornwall
Alexander came tentatively down the stairs and joined her at the bottom.
“Good morning, my good man,” Mr. Truscott said a bit too loudly. “I was just telling my dear wife that you and this fine young lady are to be congratulated.”
Alex frowned in confusion. “Are we?”
“For your recent nuptials, of course!” their host said, rather desperately.
Alexander’s expression cleared. “Ah yes. Thank you. I am a blessed man indeed.” He stepped closer to Laura, taking her hand in his.
Introductions were made, and then Mrs. Truscott suggested they all sit down to breakfast together. Dread filled Laura at the thought of having to make conversation over a meal and the lies that would be necessary to continue the ruse.
Mr. Truscott looked from person to person and wrung his fingers. “My dear, why do we not let the newly wedded couple dine on their own? I have already eaten, but you could bring a tray into my study. I relish a little time with you, my love. You can tell me all about your niece’s new baby.”
Mrs. Truscott smiled at her husband, the expression transforming her rather homely face into one of true loveliness.
“As do I, my love, but we should not neglect our guests.”
“Not at all, Mrs. Truscott,” Alex responded politely. “We were unexpected guests, and we don’t mind a bit.”
Mr. Truscott nodded. “You see, my dear. I am not the only recent bridegroom eager to spend time alone with his lovely wife.”
“Thank you, but truly, I am eager to speak with our guests,” Mrs. Truscott gently but firmly insisted. “You and I can talk later.”
Mr. Truscott reluctantly acquiesced. “As you like, my love.”
They took their seats in the dining parlour, and the maid brought out a basin of porridge, a rack of toast, and platter of cold meat. On the table were already-arranged pots of jam, honey, and butter, as well as tea things.
Mrs. Truscott turned to Alexander. “Would you like to ask the blessing, Mr. Carnell?”
“With pleasure.” He bowed his head, and Laura followed suit, though she didn’t quite shut her eyes, eager to observe this demonstration of his faith.
“Almighty God, look with mercy on those here assembled and accept our humble petitions. We are grateful for this new day and for the gracious hospitality of our hosts. Please pardon our offenses of yesterday and guard us from evil today. You know our weaknesses and the temptations that surround us. We ask for your protection through any dangers ahead, and we pray for all who travel by land or by sea. Amen.”
Everyone echoed his amen.
Mrs. Truscott thanked him and poured the tea. “You made no mention of your betrothal when you wrote, Miss Cal... er, Mrs. Carnell. Your marriage must be even more recent than ours.”
“Yes, I am as surprised as you are. It was most unexpected.”
Between bites of porridge and toast, Mrs. Truscott asked, “Have you known one another long?”
“No, we only met last month.”
John Truscott nodded sagely. “Love at first sight, was it?”
Alex looked at Laura and said with apparent sincerity, “Indeed it was. For me at least.”
“And you, my dear?” Mrs. Truscott prompted, eyes twinkling.
Laura felt her face heat. “I was ... certainly intrigued.”
“How did you meet?”
“He ... em, sailed into my life, as it were.”
“My wife is all modesty,” Alexander said. “I was injured during a shipwreck, and she rescued me and nursed me back to health.”
Mrs. Truscott pressed a hand to her heart. “How romantic.”
