Free A Soldier's Heart by Sherrill Bodine

the duchess, instinct leading her to the only tangible symbol of the regard Longford held in such contempt.
    Moonlight bathed the conservatory, where the chrysanthemum flourished under her expert care. She sat beside it, letting her tears of relief flow where none could see. There were so many new emotions bursting inside her, she could hardly contain them. Especially her feelings for Blackwood, which were growing stronger as she slowly began to know him through his family and friends. Even his belongings gave clues to his character. With a jolt of anger she admitted Longford was correct in his assumption she was totally devoid of town bronze, just as she’d been totally unprepared for Blackwood’s whirlwind courtship. But something inside her had risen to both the challenge of her Season and Blackwood’s affection. And that something wouldn’t let her down now.
    She’d learned so much about herself in the months since her wedding. She’d thought she was fairly well educated, for a female, until Her Grace, a renowned bluestocking, took her under her wing. If the forbidden novels had exposed Serena’s latent romantic nature, the books the duchess gave her opened new doors to history and politics, to social reform, and a whole world of ideas. Yet everything the duchess exposed her to had some bearing on Blackwood or the things he loved, especially Avalon Landing.
    Slowly the decision formed to go to the Landing for the summer and autumn instead of to Avalon Hall with the rest of the family. There she could feel even closer to the man she’d known so briefly and wed. Blackwood loved the place; surely he would wish her to care for his holdings as she was the planting he’d sent. Running a gentle finger over the tight buds, she smiled, her decision providing a surge of self-confidence. Dear Buckle might say her kitten was discovering the claws necessary to expand her world. That thought was almost as disturbing as it was comforting.
    When she informed the duke and duchess of her decision, they were most agreeable, insisting only that Longford accompany her for protection, and Cecily for companionship.
    The duchess wore a most satisfied smile. When Serena inquired, Cecily had a ready reply.
    “Mother has been hoping you’d take an interest in Avalon Landing.”
    Surprised, Serena shook her head. “Then why didn’t she suggest it? I value her opinion.”
    “Mother never suggests. She simply leads you until you find the proper path yourself.” The dimple deepened in her cheek. “It can be quite vexing, can’t it? Never knowing quite what she wishes you to do. And Long is just like her! But you’ll get used to it. We all have.” Cecily gave her an impulsive hug. “We’ll have such fun at the Landing, you’ll see!”
    Although delighted with the prospect of seeing her new home, Serena longed to hear from Blackwood. Anxiety for his safety and the outcome of each battle weighed heavily on her, but she dared not share these thoughts with his family, who all appeared so optimistic. Unfortunately, within a week the London house would be closed up. The delays in receiving a letter would be even greater in the country.
    Finally, on the eve of departure, Wilkens presented the long-anticipated letter to her. It was soiled with travel and dog-eared, but it was thick. She fled with the treasure to her bedchamber and locked her door. Excitement threatened to overwhelm her. Slowly she opened the sheets of paper, and as she recognized his handwriting, her throat tightened with often-repressed tears.
    My dearest Serena, by now word of our glorious victory at Vitoria against Joseph Bonaparte has reached you. My men fought bravely and their valor has not gone unrecognized. My Sergeant Major, Higgens, distinguished himself; a veteran of more campaigns than I have years, he is a source of much inspiration to the men and to me. Like Jeffries, he’s a Scot and they often entertain us around the campfire. The men are full of confidence