Free Angel in Black by Fela Dawson Scott Page B

composed again, his self-assured air intact. “A gentleman would never allow a lady to ride about unescorted.” All the passion was gone from his voice, his eyes were shadowed and unreadable. Though he wasn’t much more than a stranger, she knew this was the Blake Roberts most people saw.
    When they arrived in the village, Blake helped her rub down Blackstar and feed him. When they were done, Rina stared at the ground in uncomfortable silence as Blake prepared to leave. He lifted her chin so he could look into her eyes.
    “Good night, little one. I shall see you soon.”
    Gracefully, Blake mounted Hera and rode away. Rina stood watching the lone figure disappear into the darkness, feeling unusually alone.

 
    Chapter Six
     
    B LAKE LET HERA RUN and quickly left Windsong behind, the endless piles of paperwork forgotten, as were the last weeks spent confined in his office. He didn’t give much thought to where they were headed but soon found the village of Tattershall before him. Almost five weeks had passed since his encounter with Rina at the pool. His nights were filled with visions of the tawny-haired vixen; she haunted him, like a ghost who would not rest. In his dreams, she aroused him to the point of madness.
    Why was he so interested in the little spitfire? There were plenty of women to warm his bed, more eager and willing than Rina. So why on earth must he see her? She definitely brought out the worst in him — so why did he want this woman so badly? Blake continued to ask himself all of these questions as Hera trotted through the small village. Would he ever discover the answers, or was he doomed to remain under her spell forever?
    He stood at the door, but paused, knowing he should walk away. Instead, he knocked loudly and waited. A plump, jolly-looking woman answered; her pale blue eyes curious and smile welcoming. “Good day, m’lord. What is it I can do for you?” she asked.
    Blake responded with one of his most charming smiles and bowed in a respectful, gracious manner. “Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Blake Roberts.”
    The woman’s eyes widened; to find the master of Windsong standing at her door was unnerving. Flustered, Jenny giggled like a young lass and replied, “I be Jenny Tidwell. T’ what do I owe this honor, m’lord?”
    “I believe the young lady Rina lives here?”
    “Aye, she does.” A twinkle came to Jenny’s eyes as she studied the gentleman. “But she’s not here at the moment. Would you care t’ come in an’ wait for her?” At his nod, she let him enter. “Would you sit an’ share a cup of ale, Lord Roberts?”
    “I most surely would, kind lady.”
    Another giggle escaped as she blushed under his warm, golden gaze. “Well, come right in an’ make yourself comfortable. It’s not fancy, but ’tis home an’ the ale’s good.” Jenny grabbed two cups and poured them full.
    Blake sat at the table and gladly accepted the drink. He motioned to the chair across from him. “Please, sit.”
    Jenny obliged and Blake took a deep drink. “Just what I needed, I’m most grateful, Madame.”
    “Oh, Jenny will do, sir. No need t’ stand on formality in this here house.”
    “Only if you will call me Blake, Jenny.”
    “Aye,” Jenny popped up, still flustered, “let me fill your cup, Blake.”
    Blake stopped her, “Don’t fret over me, Jenny — I am fine. It’s nice here — charming in fact. Not like the stuffy mansions I find myself obligated to visit.”
    Jenny beamed proudly at his compliment, and noticed him stretch his long legs out comfortably. She decided she liked this young man. “If you don’t mind an old woman’s nosiness, what did you come t’ see Rina ’bout? Do you have a horse she needs t’ tend?”
    “No. I have no horses she needs to see. I met Rina several weeks ago and I wished to see her again.”
    His answered amused Jenny as she took in his casual appearance and manner. If the truth be told, she noticed everything about the