Opening my eyes, I gazed into Devlin’s. My breathing was shaky and I struggled to find my voice. A part of me felt like I was about to make the biggest mistake of my life, the other part told me I was doing the right thing.
“Devlin, I want you.”
ROLLING OVER, I opened my eyes and squinted as the bright morning light poured through the windows. It took me a few seconds to remember where I was. Sitting up, I pulled the sheet up to cover my exposed breasts.
Devlin’s room.
Dropping back down onto the pillow, I closed my eyes. Devlin had been amazing last night. The way he made love to me was as if I was a rare preci
ous piece of art. He was slow and attentive. His hands seemed to move over my body like he was memorizing every inch of me.
The things he whispered into my ear were heartfelt and full of love and passion.
I’ve waited forever for this moment, Sophia, I intend on making it last.
My hand slid down between my legs as I remembered Devlin’s mouth bringing my first orgasm of the night.
Smiling, I stretched and felt my muscles strain under my movement. I was going to feel Devlin’s presence for the next few days.
Slipping out of bed, I wrapped the sheet around my body walked to the window. The sun was shining so bright. I heard laughter and saw Annie running away as Devlin chased her. Smiling, I brought my fingertips up to my lips.
Let me love you, Sophia.
Whispered promises of a future with Devlin brought hope alive in me. Being with Devlin would never be like how it was with Danny. There was something magical when Danny and I were together. My heart felt as if it would burst with every touch, every kiss, and every intimate moment we had spent together.
Tears began to build in my eyes as I closed them. “I will love you forever, Daniel Stowe. My heart will forever belong to you.”
Opening my eyes, I wiped away my tears as I watched Devlin continue to chase after my sister. He was so patient with me last night, and the one time I broke down crying he held me until it passed. It was more than my heart could take. I wasn’t sure how I had been blessed to have two amazing men in my life love me so much. And for Devlin to love me, knowing that my heart would forever belong to Danny, moved me beyond words.
I vowed to do everything I could to make him happy. To make our marriage, the marriage he had dreamed of, the marriage he deserved.
Stepping out of the carriage, I stood in front of Irene and Chester’s house. I’d been married to Devlin for almost two months now and we were making our first social outing as husband and wife. This was the first time I’d been back to Savannah since I lost the baby. Devlin had stayed back at his house to allow me to have this visit with Danny’s parents alone.
Slowly making my way up the stairs, my hands shook as I knocked. The door flew open and one of the most important women in my life stood smiling before me.
“Sophia!” Irene cried out. Pulling me into her arms, we both began crying.
My heart felt like a small piece of it had healed from being in Irene’s arms. “I’ve missed you so much, Irene. So very much.”
Pushing me back to give me a once-over, Irene shook her head. “The color has returned to your face. You look happy, darling. Come, let’s go inside and talk.”
Sitting in the parlor, I fidgeted in my seat. I wasn’t sure how I was going to tell Danny’s parents I had moved on and gotten married. Glancing around the room, I closed my eyes as I remembered sitting in here with Danny the day before he left for England. Taking in a deep breath, I slowly let it out.
“I … I don’t know where to start. In my haste to come see you I guess I didn’t think my words through.”
Irene reached for my hand and gave it a squeeze. “Life moves on, Sophia.”
My eyes widened in surprise. “What did you say?”
Giving me a sweet smile, she nodded her head. It was then I noticed her eyes were missing their sparkle. It was as if a part of her was gone. “Danny would have wanted you to move on. I suspect it is Devlin?”
My heart slammed in my chest as a tear rolled down my cheek.
Reaching up and wiping it away, Irene continued to talk. “Shh … now, now there, my darling. Do not feel guilt for finding love again.”
Shaking my head, my mouth dropped open. “No, I could never give my heart to another man.” Dropping my head, I stared at my hands. “At least, not all of it. I’ve found happiness again with Devlin and we’ve gotten married. Tongues were wagging with me living with him at this plantation outside of Savannah. We thought it would be best to put the gossip and rumors to bed.”
“Of course, Sophia. Chester and I are happy you’ve found happiness.” Irene paused and smiled softly. “You deserve it. I know your heart will always belong to Danny, but Sophia, don’t be afraid to open it up again. There is room for Devlin in there. I’m positive.”