Page 156 of Immortal Bastard

The carriage jostled and she swayed into his side. “Whoa.” She gripped his arm. “Don’t you guys believe in seat belts?”

He glanced at her and chuckled, directing the horses toward the back road.

“Right.” She chuckled. “Immortal.”

The steady clip-clop of horse hooves sped up as they got on their way. Fresh air mingled with her scent, creating a nice breeze as they picked up speed. Several horse-drawn vehicles traveled ahead, all moving in the same direction toward the Safe House.

They pulled behind a long line of carriages parked on the grass. “The bishop’s house is the church?”

“Every house is a house of God.” He secured the carriage and helped her down.

“Good day, Bredder Christian,” Elder Thaddeus Christner called.

“Good day to you.”

The first few months after a mating were a delicate time for couples and greatly respected by the members, especially in cases of new transitions. Brother Thaddeus did not greet or acknowledge Delilah’s presence, as the elder understood Christian would make a proper introduction when he was ready for other members of The Order to address her.

“Who was that dude?”

“Elder Thaddeus Christner. He’s the maternal grandfather of your Hartzler friends. Sister Abilene is his daughter.”

“It’s crazy how none of you guys look older than thirty.”

They walked toward the old colonial, following a dawdling line of females who watched them pass.

“Everyone’s staring at us.”

He took Delilah’s hand. “They’re curious and anxious to meet you, that’s all.” A tremor of insecurity rippled from her. “You’ll be fine, pintura. I’ll be by your side for most of the day.”

“Most?”

“During service, I’m required to sit up front with the elders.”

“What?” She stopped walking. “You’re leaving me?”

He urged her to keep moving. “We’ll be in the same room.”

Another wave of insecurity passed, this one spiced with a touch of irritation. He supposed her separation anxiety was a positive sign that their bond was solidifying.

The main room of the house flooded with natural light. Hats covered every free surface as bodies crammed together in long rows of benches, making the air warm and stuffy. He led her to the right where only females sat.

“This is where you will sit.”

She looked out at the sea of bonnets and hesitated. I can’t believe you’re abandoning me.

I’ll be right over there. He pointed toward the front of the room, but she only scowled. Go on. Be brave.

She took a seat on the bench and squirmed, her thoughts cataloging every detail as she mentally complained about the lack of cushions on the backless pews.

He thought to remind her she was projecting her musings but did not wish to add to her stress. Bending to kiss her cheek, he whispered, “I have to meet with the elders in the back. I’ll return soon. I’ll be sitting right over there, in the front.”

She caught his sleeve. “What if they expect me to do something?”

“No one expects you to do anything but listen quietly. The service will be said in mostly High German.”

“Sounds thrilling,” she grumbled, and he hid a smile, coming to enjoy her dry wit.

He glanced at the surrounding females. The female to your right is Magdalene.

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