Rose awoke with a start as she did not recognize her surroundings. When she felt the weight of Nathaniel on her, she remembered what had happened the night before. He had confessed his love for her. They had made love several times through the night. He had told her of his plans to overthrow his father. He had also explained to her why he was taking her to Shirely. If he could restore her birthright, then she would be of noble birth. They could marry.
He wanted her for his wife. And with his father gone, no one could stop him. He could have an alliance with Shirely. They could be happy together. Rose was not sure about the conversation that had transpired between them. Was she to believe he had suddenly changed not wanting her for his wife and not wanting to own her? She slid out from under his arm and used the pot. She got dressed and went to the horses. She fed them and then grabbed some of the food out of her saddle.
