Chapter 4

My father's face twisted with rage when I defied him and turned down such a lord-to-be's proposal. He raised his hand, ready to slap me.

I squeezed my eyes shut, but the slap never came.

When I looked again, Charles Goodwin was holding my father's wrist in a firm grip. Charles gave a cold laugh. "Quite the temper, Mr. Wynn. Hitting your own daughter now?"

My father lowered his hand, looking utterly embarrassed.

Henry's voice cut through, icy and sharp. "Mr. Goodwin, this is the general's estate, not one of your taverns. Mind your manners."

"I'm not here to play…