From the corner of her eye, she caught Nick staring at their joined hands, a stormy frown on his face. Miss Stanton tapped him on the arm, and he looked at her.

Andre was propped in bed, reading by the light of the lamp. He looked up when she entered. “You look beautiful, my dear. I predict the local swains will find you more delectable than the ice cream.

In his vision, she picked up a silver-backed brush and stroked the long fall of hair. He imagined himself taking the brush from her hand. As their eyes met in the mirror, he’d sensuously stroke every tress. He could see himself picking up a lavender-scented lock, kissing it, and then kissing her shoulder, her forehead, her lips.

Elizabeth glanced over at Nick, striding along with Lizzy on his shoulders. Once in the shade, the child had perked up enough to giggle as she bounced along on her moving perch. Nick caught Elizabeth’s glance and winked.

He picked up one of her hands, turned it over, and kissed her palm again before placing it against his chest. Her heart melted in response, and her knees threatened to follow.

Life is for the living,” her late husband had said more than once. “Laugh while you can.

At the sight of Elizabeth Hamilton, all his previous concerns flew out of his mind. She was dressed in green, the color of new leaves, with her burnished blonde hair pulled back in a simple knot. Her blue eyes, more azure than the sky back home, turned in inquiry toward him. The color of her surroundings suited her. Nick had never seen a more elegant woman. Damn, she’s beautiful. His tongue froze like lake water in a Montana winter, and his greeting died on his lips.

Nick began playing another piece – a beautiful one she’d never heard. The feelings in his eyes changed until they held love and compassion. “This is for you,” he whispered. Mesmerized, she became lost in the emerald enchantment cast over her by his gaze and the seductive music. Although not releasing her from her cares, the music soothed away the harsh edges so they didn’t cut so deep into her soul, giving her the strength to continue to bear them.

My outlook has changed, Antonia. Last year this time, I’d bemoaned the ruined hay.” He shrugged. “Now I know what real loss is. So I’m seeing things differently.

As he tried to suppress a laugh, Nick choked, then raised his napkin to his mouth. But his eyes danced with emerald glee, and Elizabeth knew the napkin hid a grin.