Page 13 of Rose
“If yer brow furrows anymore, ye’ll look like ye have a mustache.”
“Pardon?” he said, meeting her gaze.
She laughed. The sound was light and musical and flooded his heart with warmth. “Forgive me. ‘Tis what I’ve always said to my brothers when their worries make them too serious.”
He smiled. “Thank you. I needed the reminder.” Then he stood. “Although it’s impossible to tell in this small, dreary room, it is a fine day. The sun is shining. The waters are calm. If you have the strength and inclination, it would be my pleasure to escort you aloft. We can take a turn about the deck.”
She chewed her bottom lip. “I’m curious about the ship, but I’m, admittedly, exhausted. Still, fresh air will no doubt do me good.” She nodded suddenly. “Perhaps just a quick turn then.”
“Agreed,” he said, smiling. “I will step out while you dress. Join me in the hall when you’re ready.”
Tristan again paced two steps in one direction and two in the other. What if it was too soon for Rose to be out of bed? What if the salty air was too much for her weakened lungs? Just as he was about to rap on the door and suggest they wait until the morrow, the door swung wide, and Rose stepped out into the hallway. The moment their eyes locked, his concern vanished. She looked radiant. Her red hair fell in a tangle of wild curls to her waist. When she smiled up at him, soft lines crinkled at her eyes. In truth, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.
“’Tis a might too big,” she said, smoothing her hands over the loose tunic.
He could barely make out her slim form in Simon’s clothing. “Wait just a moment,” he said, stepping past her into his room. He opened the small trunk wedged under the bed and pulled out a soft, black belt.
“If you’ll allow me,” he said, holding up the long, woven cord.
She raised her arms, and he reached around her waist, tying the belt so that it fell gently at her hips.
“That’s better,” she said. “Thank ye.”
He offered her his arm. “If you grow too weary, we will return straightaway. But for now…” He paused to gesture to the open hatch. “The sun and sea await your gaze.”
