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you for all the baskets of food and clothing you’ve sent me over the years.”
    His surprised look made Rina laugh, the sound warm and gentle to his ears. “Just because your servant always left them anonymously on my doorstep does not mean I did not know who sent them. I always assumed you were the culprit, and my suspicions were confirmed when I spotted your manservant sneaking away one night after depositing his bundle of gifts.”
    “So you knew it was me, did you? Well — I admit to my plot, but you have deceived me as well.”
    Rina grew concerned by his comment, Lord Roberts added, his voice admiring, rather than scolding, “You gave away most of the things I sent — things I had meant for you.”
    “There were people who needed them more than I,” whispered Rina, afraid she had offended him.
    “No need to fret, my dear. I understand — perhaps more than you think. You have a heart of gold and this old man finds your kindness and compassion refreshing. You’re a good woman, and always remember, if ever you need help, do not hesitate to come to this house. You will not be denied, no matter what your request may be. You will always have a home to come to. Do not forget.”
    Overwhelmed, Rina’s eyes reflected her gratitude and love. Her voice shook slightly. “I don’t know what to say. It’s comforting to know you are my friend and forever in my heart. After my parents died, I thought I was alone in the world, and slowly, I’ve found myself surrounded by a new family. One as devoted and caring as the one I lost. I am grateful to you, my lord.”
    Tears glistened in the old man’s eyes and they sat in companionable silence, hands clasped. Finally, sleep overtook the frail man. Rina kissed his cheek and whispered her good-bye. When she eased the door shut, she knew they would never see each other again in this world, but his memory would be with her forever.

 
    Chapter Four
     
    B LAKE STOPPED ON THE crest of the hill and gazed over the surrounding countryside. In the distance lay Windsong, the stately mansion spread out in grand splendor, its windows reflecting the bright sunshine. Happiness spread through him, the love for his lands warmed his heart. He could smell the salt air; hear the sound of waves breaking against the rocky shoreline. Blake envisioned the violent waters swirling and breaking against the gray stones as the mist sprayed in the air.
    It was a beautiful place, enchanted and mysterious. At night the fog would roll in like a silent giant to shroud the coast and the winds off the North Sea would sing; sad and lonely sounds giving Windsong her name. The forests in the distance provided a dark green background for the estate, making nature’s artwork complete.
    Each and every time Blake Roberts came home after a long absence he wondered at the perfection and beauty of his home. How he missed it. Beneath the heat of the sun, Blake had long-ago shucked his jacket and waistcoat, his shirt unbuttoned to his waist. Atop his gray-dappled Arabian mare, he leisurely took in every detail, and spotted a cloud of dust in the distance. Blake did not move, merely waited until the rider approached from Windsong.
    When the horse and rider reached the top of the hill, the beast slowed its breakneck pace. Blake continued to watch intently as the black horse drew closer and surprise washed over him when he discovered the hell-bent rider to be a woman. Her cheeks were flushed a dark rosy hue from the exhilarating ride. An angelic face was framed by a tangle of golden hair and it whipped about her shoulders in disarray. Bold as brass, she returned his stare and sapphire-blue eyes sparkled with mischievous intent.
    He took in every detail; her mount reigned to a slow walk as they approached. Again, he found himself shocked to discover she rode the stallion astride and dressed like a man. But the seductive curve of her hips and the sweet feminine attributes, clearly revealed beneath the shirt she wore, made