Once out on the track riding home, his mind drifted. His offer of marriage had been refused and he had to admit Marianne’s words had rather shocked him. Had he expected her to be thrilled by his generous consent to marry her? Something she was quite aware he did not truly want. He shook his head, laughing at himself. And marriage was definitely not something he sought … at all. Life was too good the way it was. The thought of Raphael and Susannah gave him pause, though. He had lived such a life and given it up for her. Yet he knew enough to be aware their marriage was a rarity that not many people were able to find. He promised himself it would be that or nothing for him.
He wondered whether his father would tell him of Marianne’s visit to the ship? How would he feel if he did not? He sur
