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He picked up her sketchpad, charcoals, and carried them for her as she looped her arm in his and they walked along the main deck. She could almost feel the hairs on her arm stand on end as she felt the heat from his arm on hers, through their clothes. It was a heady feeling.

“So Anna, since you’re headed to Virginia to find a husband, do you mind me asking why? I’m sure there were dozens of men in England who would have lined up to marry you. Why do you feel the need to travel across the ocean to find a husband?” He was anxious to know a little more about this beautiful stranger.

She hated lying, but she knew she better keep up her cover, at least until she reached Virginia. There would be fewer problems for her that way. “Robert, I have no family or means to live on my own in England, so I’m going to Virginia to make a new start.”

Well, it wasn’t really a lie. She felt like she didn’t have any family after her brother’s betrayal and her father’s death. Anna was looking for a fresh start. She just hoped she was convincing enough.

“Anna, there must have been a man more than willing to marry you and offer you a place to live in England. Was there not?” He inquired as they walked along.

“Well, of course there was one, but he was someone I didn’t even know, so I’d prefer to make a new life of my own choosing.” She sighed. “Now what about you Robert? Are you married?” She retorted to distract him and take the conversation away from her and also because she was a bit interested in hearing about him.

He looked at her and smiled, thinking she was an expert in turning the conversation around. “I’m not married as of yet, but I am promised in marriage to someone.” He stated, showing no emotions.