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Someone was clearing their throat and Anna turned to find both Edward and Henry standing behind them. She had almost forgot they were on a ship full of passengers, and she could feel the color rise to her cheeks as she blushed and struggled to regain control of her senses. Embarrassment was now the emotion of the hour and she hoped they hadn’t seen or heard too much.

“How are you this fine morning Miss Anna?” Asked Henry with a sly smile on his lips.

“I’m doing splendid Henry, and I’ll leave you gentlemen alone for now.” She said in a voice she barely recognized as her own. Anna knew she needed to find something to keep her busy and away from Major Marsh, so she went to visit Captain Drake about an important matter.

Robert turned and watched her until she was out of sight, longing for her to return to his side. “Didn’t you see I was busy?” He suggested in a clipped tone, stifling a groan.

“That’s exactly why we came over here. You need to stay away from Anna. She’ll be getting married in Jamestown and you don’t want to ruin her reputation in the meantime on this ship. We think the world of Miss Pemberton and would hate for her to get hurt.” Edward said adamantly, as he gave his friend a meaningful look.

Robert nodded solemnly. He hadn’t even thought of that, and no, he didn’t want to see her get hurt either. For some strange reason this woman was the last person he’d ever want to see hurt and he needed to control his behavior better. “You are completely right. Nothing like being scolded by your friends to bring you back to your senses.” He replied firmly as he smiled at Edward and Henry, and then he glanced once more in the direction she had disappeared.