Someone coughed behind her and she looked back to see Rex with his eyebrows raised. Her cheeks heated as she realized he’d overheard her and understood her implied meaning.
But Theo led her up the gangplank and she didn’t have time to respond before she was being whisked on deck.
They sailed out to sea, and once they were far enough from shore, the Captain joined them on the deck. Clasping hands, they each repeated the vows Captain Reginal asked them to promise.
“I will love, honor, and cherish you always.” Violette didn’t even blink as she stared into Theo’s eyes. She meant every word.
He repeated the commitment. “I will love, honor, and cherish you always.” Then pausing, he added, “With God as my witness, I’ll not leave your side until death do us part.”
Violette’s breath caught. “And I promise to stay by your side no matter where we go.”
He kissed her then and Captain Reginal declared them husband and wife.
Violette held her new husband’s hand, unable to believe where the past few days had taken her. No marriage of convenience but a love match with a man with whom she could share her secret hopes and dreams. She was truly blessed.
* * *
Theo held Violette’s hand as they headed into the captain’s quarters for the wedding breakfast. Looking over at his wife, a hope he hadn’t experienced in years, rose up in his chest. Together, they would have everything they’d dreamed of.
Tricia came to give Violette a hug and Rex came to his other side, shaking his hand. “Congratulations, my friend.”
He returned the shake and gave a chuckle. “Surely you don’t mean that.”
Rex gave a rakish grin. “I do. While the thought of marriage sounds dreadful to me, it would seem you’ve found to woman who could make the institution less so.” Rex rubbed his jaw with the flat of his hand. “I haven’t had a chance to tell you. But I won’t be leaving England for some time either.”
Theo grimaced. “What’s happened?”
Rex shook his head. “It’s a story for another day. But I will stay long enough to attend your second wedding.”
Theo smiled gratefully. “I have to head north to find a replacement ship. I’ll search for you as well. But I am wondering if you’ve time to do something for me.”
Rex nodded. “I’m sure I can.”
“Fetch Violette’s brother and
sister. Violette’s mother is in no condition to travel and I am certain she’ll want her family to attend our more public ceremony.”
Rex let out a long breath. “Last week I was sailing across the Atlantic. This week, I’m to play nanny.”
Theo grinned. “I do apologize.” Then he paused, his eyes narrowing on his friend. “Make sure to bring a proper chaperone and keep your hands to yourself.”
Rex grimaced. “What are you talking about? Are they not children?”
“Daffodil is eighteen and, from what I hear, a beauty.” Theo stepped closer. “Do not put her in a compromising—”
Rex held up his hand. “Say no more. I’ve no wish to acquire a wife.”
Theo nodded. “Thank you, Rex.”
He was glad the conversation ended when it did because Violette was by his side. Placing his arm at her waist, they mingled together.
The ship was already returning to the harbor, to allow their guests to depart. They would stay on board however and continue on to the boat yard.
“What will Tricia and Ryker do?” Violette asked as they stole a quiet moment.
“Wait for us. We’ll have to return together.” Theo kissed the back of her hand. “But Luke will return home. He is anxious to be with Tabbie. And Rex is going to fetch your brother and sister.”
Her eyes widened and she gave him a broad smile. “Wonderful.”