Angel in Black by Fela Dawson Scott

young lord; the broad shoulders, wide chest and lean waist. There was nothing pampered and soft about this aristocrat, his linen shirt did little to conceal his muscled arms as they flexed beneath the fabric with every movement made. Jenny pursed her lips and she studied his face with a critical eye. “An’ what would a handsome, rich gentleman like yourself be wantin’ with my Rina?” She paused a minute as if expecting an answer, but came to a conclusion on her own. She clucked in dismay. “Ahh … I suppose the answer be clear, but I’m not sure I be likin’ what you’re thinkin’.”
    Wary of the direction the woman had taken, Blake feigned a look of hurt. “Would you deny a gentleman the pleasure her company would bring?”
    Jenny was not fooled by his smooth talk. “I’m not daft, young man. It’s the other pleasures you’ll be wantin’ that’s not t’ me likin’.”
    Blake considered lying, to ease her fears for her niece. But it was not his way. “Your niece is beautiful and I’ll not deny I desire her. Whatever happens between us will be Rina’s decision.”
    As Blake drained his mug, Jenny let out a cackle and stood to refill it, despite his earlier protest. “You’re honest — I like that in a man. Well, I suppose if you can tame the girl enough t’ bed her; you certainly will have earned it. So, I won’t be stickin’ me nose where it doesna’ belong. It wouldna’ do no good — has a mind of her own, she does.”
    Jenny knew Rina well — the girl would do as she pleased. Rina never allowed what others thought to interfere with her private life. This was, after all, between the two of them. Jenny only wanted her to be happy; she deserved that much in life. Perhaps, she thought wistfully, this would lead to love.
    Blake misunderstood Jenny’s casual acceptance of the situation, thinking Rina must have had lovers before. Certainly if she was still innocent, Jenny would object to his blatant intentions.
    “I’m glad you understand,” replied Blake, not certain if he was glad or not.
    “Well, young man, you havena’ bedded her yet. Me Rina’s no mousy lady. You’ll have your hands full sweet-talkin’ her.”
    He took another drink and drawled, “I’m sure I will.”
    Rina rode up to the cottage and dismounted in front. She stopped to stroke Hera, happy to see the fine horse, but mostly to give herself time to calm her racing heart. Why on earth should she react this way? Just because Blake Roberts was inside was no reason for her to feel so strange. As serenely as possible, Rina entered the house.
    Blake rose to his feet and, suddenly, realized how much he had missed not seeing her in the last few weeks. Her hair hung loose, falling into a mass of tangled curls — curls he ached to touch. Her color remained high from the ride, and her eyes sparkled as she glanced from Blake to Jenny, and back again to him.
    “Good afternoon, Lord Roberts.”
    Rina looked uncertain, like she didn’t know what she should do. So, Blake lifted her slender hand and gently pressed his lips against her soft flesh. Their eyes locked, the sensation the small, innocent gesture created obvious. “Good afternoon, Rina.”
    She pulled her hand free and stood ill at ease.
    “I was beginning to think I would miss you — I’m glad I did not.”
    Blake’s words were like a gentle caress to Rina’s ears, bringing a flush to her face.
    Jenny watched the two young people closely and smiled. Yes — maybe it would lead to love. “Rina, luv, I need t’ take this bread t’ Mrs. McNally — I promised she would have it before supper.” Jenny wrapped the bread carefully and placed it in a basket all the while she talked, “Lord Roberts, it was so nice of you t’ come. I’m sure you will forgive me leavin’, after all, you did come t’ see Rina an’ not an old, married woman.”
    Before either of them could say a word, Jenny disappeared through the door, her distinctive cackle drifting behind her