The Daring Miss Darcy (Lost Ladies of London #4)(73)

“Remember, the sailors are somewhat unconventional,” Vane said as they walked across the shingle.

The Scot, Mackenzie, strode over and slapped Vane on the back. “Och, it’s good to see you’ve not lost that brooding expression. It’s a look that makes men quiver in their boots.”

“Most men, but not you, Mackenzie,” Vane said with a smirk. He wondered what Estelle made of the large red-haired fellow.

“When a man’s been swamped by giant waves, there’s not much that can frighten him after that. Och, and I’ve seen wind whip clothes off a man’s back.”

Estelle stiffened at Vane’s side. “I agree, Mr Mackenzie. There is nothing more terrifying than a storm at sea.”

Vane turned to Estelle. “That doesn’t stop Mackenzie diving into the water at any given opportunity.”

“Did your mother not tell you that the best way to deal with fears is to tackle them head-on?”

“I believe we ran into each other before, Mr Mackenzie,” Estelle said. “In Paris.”

“Aye, one look at my ginger beard and you raced away as fast as your legs could carry you.” Mackenzie bowed his head. “Miss Darcy, I cannot tell you how it warms my heart to know you’re well. There’ll be ale all round tonight, that’s for sure.”

“Thank you, Mr Mackenzie.”

“Come now.” The Scot took their luggage and ushered them towards the boat. “His lordship has been waiting on the dock all morning. His toes are probably frozen in his boots.”

“Could you just give us a moment alone before we depart?” Vane said. This would be their last opportunity to speak privately for some time.

“Aye,” Mackenzie said with a grin. “We’ll wait for you in the boat.”

“What is it?” Estelle turned to him and placed her hand on his chest. “Your heart is racing.”

Vane took her hand. “Do you remember when you came to Hanover Square, and I asked you if you loved me?”

A smile graced her lips. “How could I forget?”

“You didn’t ask how I felt and so I want to tell you now, before … well, before Fabian captures you and refuses to let you go.” Any trace of amusement in his voice was fleeting.

Estelle gazed deeply into his eyes. “Then let me reaffirm what I said. I love you, Ross. There is no one in this world for me but you.”

Vane swallowed past the lump in his throat. “You are the love of my life, Estelle. I love you more now than I ever have. You’re strong when you need to be, daring even when you shouldn’t be. You’re not afraid to show your vulnerability and I admire that.” He couldn’t help but smile. “Have I told you I love you?”

“Twice, I think.” Her beaming smile warmed his heart.

“Then never forget it.” Vane kissed her quickly on the lips and then gestured to the boat. “Fabian has lived for eight years thinking he would never see you again. Let us go and put an end to his torment.”

Vane helped her into the boat and they set off for Raven Island.

Mackenzie hummed a tune as he took to the oars. “From what I remember, my lord, your rowing skills would put any seafaring man to shame.”

Fighting with men in dark alleys had given him a tremendous amount of upper body strength. “At the time, we were rushing to rescue my sister,” Vane said. “Panic does that to a man.”

Estelle sat silently beside him, staring at the dot of land on the horizon. Her countenance grew more subdued with each stroke of the oars. When the island came into full view, she sighed.

“It looks beautiful here.”

Vane had been so enraged the day he’d first come to the island, he’d failed to notice the true magnificence of the landscape. The sun shone down upon hills of flourishing green vegetation. Gulls swooped in the sky. The water sparkled. The fresh, briny scent of the sea air calmed the mind.

“It truly is a haven away from the world.” He turned to Estelle and noticed a tear running down her cheek. Without saying a word, he simply held her hand.

“Not long until we reach the dock,” Mackenzie said. “Happen we’ll find the men hanging from the top-sail just to get a wee look at you.”

There were a handful of sailors on the dock. Amongst them Vane saw Fabian standing with his arm wrapped around Lillian, holding her close. Vane’s heart swelled at the sight of his sister. She looked so happy, so carefree, and for that he owed Fabian a debt so huge it could never be repaid.

They drew alongside the landing pier. Mackenzie threw a line and one sailor rushed forward, tied a knot and slipped it over the piling.

Vane climbed out onto the wooden walkway. He held out his hand and brought Estelle up to join him. For a few seconds, Fabian and Estelle just looked at each other and then she picked up her skirts and ran. Fabian took flight, too, the thud of his boots on the planks obliterating the squawks of the gulls.

Estelle jumped into her brother’s arms and he hugged her tightly. They both dropped to their knees, still hugging, and yet laughing at the same time.

While the pair held each other close, Vane met Lillian’s gaze. She smiled and hurried towards him, took his hands and squeezed.

“I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to see you.” She released one hand and touched his cheek tenderly. “I cannot tell you how much this means to Fabian.”