by Lisa Harris
Tara felt a blush creep up her cheeks, and her knees threatened to give way beneath her. She regarded his colorful attire and his freshly shaved face, and she breathed in the fresh scent of his shaving soap. His mulberry frock coat and gray trousers made him look far more dashing than any other gentleman she’d ever seen.
Who really cared about tradition, anyway?
He leaned against the doorframe, his gaze never leaving her face. “Between formal teas in your honor and a constant array of wedding plans, I’ve missed you.”
She was certain he’d still be able to make her blush fifty years from now. “We’ll be married within the hour—”
“After which I must endure the five-course meal your mother planned, along with hours of socializing and other such formalities.” He shot her a lopsided grin before leaning forward and brushing his lips across hers. “I just needed five minutes with you. Alone.”
His words brought a smile to her lips. “We should have eloped.”
He eyed the empty hallway. “There’s still time. We could be on the next train to Iowa…”
“My mother would send a pack of lawmen after us.”
“I know.” He laughed as he took her hand and rubbed her fingers. “I promise I’ll leave, but I’ve been thinking about something.”
“What’s that?”
“The missing gold might have only have been a rumor, but—”
“Someone will find the gold one day.” She flashed him a smile. “I’m certain of that.”
“Maybe, but I think there’s one thing we can both agree on.”
“And what is that?”
He leaned down for a second kiss. “The gold doesn’t matter anymore, because I’ve found something far better than any hidden treasure. I love you, Tara soon-to-be Mrs. Jefferson.”
She reached up to kiss him back. “And I love you, Mr. Jefferson.”
Tara stepped into his warm embrace and sent up a prayer of thanks. They’d both found treasure—not only in the rewards of their spiritual journey but also in each other. And that, in itself, was worth far more than any riches of this world.
About the Author
Lisa Harris and her husband, Scott, along with their three children, live in northern South Africa, where they work as missionaries. When she’s not spending time with her family, her ministry, or writing, she enjoys traveling, learning how to cook different ethnic foods, and going on game drives through the African bush with her husband and kids. Find more about her latest books at www.lisaharriswrites.com
Dedication
To my aunt Janelle, who’s always been an example to me on how to serve God with one’s whole heart.
A note from the Author:
I love to hear from my readers! You may correspond with me by writing:
Lisa Harris
Author Relations
PO Box 721
Uhrichsville, OH 44683
