He held her tightly as the pale dawn crept into the bedchamber. She fought the tears seeping out of her closed eyes. She was trying not to think about his leaving in a few days, but it was impossible after the conversation they’d had last night. He kissed her neck, her shoulder. “You had better go.” She didn’t move. “We should make the most of this day. Let’s picnic in the cove.” He smiled. “I can hardly object. But, Julianne, discovery at this point is as dangerous as at any other time.” He was right, except she was so acutely aware of their time running out. He was leaving her, and he meant to sever all contact. She knew she would find a way to write to him, whether he wished it or not. But even worse, he could die. She turned and kissed him, before sliding from the bed. As she put on her nightgown, she wished she could see some sign of anguish on his face, but his expression was so controlled, so contained. Once, she had admired his stoic nature. Now, she wanted a sign from him—an outburst!
