The strength and importance of Fort Fisher and Wilmington were discussed proudly, as if the Confederacy’s victory would be won or lost on their survival or defeat. Governor Vance’s messenger seemed delighted to share news from other locations, news that should only have been for the ears of the governor and military officers. Shannon suspected the man’s lips had been loosened by too much wine and the jovial company surrounding him.
Shannon boldly and coyly teased, “Sir, if I were a Union spy, I would have many valuable facts to report to my superior. Perhaps you should be more careful with your talk, for I fear that Federal agents lurk everywhere. We certainly don’t wish to entice the Union Army or Navy to attack our lovely and peaceful city or crucial fort.”
Lamb’s aide looked chastened and glanced around to see if anyone had been observing them too closely. He smiled at Molly and Mattilu nearby, then returned his attention to the exquisite redhead with large blue eyes.
When the messenger and Mrs. DeRossett departed, one of Whiting’s lieutenant’s encouraged, “Eli, tell us some stories about you and your raider friends. I’m sure Miss Greenleaf would find them fascinating.”
With only three men left at the large table, Shannon had been about to rise and leave, but she was halted by the stimulating suggestion. She coaxed with a bright smile, “Oh, please do, Captain Carter. It sounds so exciting. Have you been to Savannah lately? Is she all right?”
Molly was pleased with the way Shannon was looking and smiling at the handsome and rugged sea captain. She decided it was to her advantage to encourage a friendship, and perhaps a romance, between them. With two of the serving women absent tonight, both she and her younger sister had been compelled to help with the evening meal. She smiled flirtatiously as she hinted, “Captain Carter, why don’t you take your friends into the private parlor? It’s more comfortable and quieter in there. Here’s the key; you know where it is. I’ll bring a bottle of sherry and four glasses, compliments of the hotel. I cannot tell you how delighted I am to see you make Shannon laugh and smile. She’s been spending far too much time alone since her arrival.”
As Elisha nodded agreement and gratitude, his green eyes gleamed with admiration for his dinner companion. The tall and muscular seaman rose agilely, then assisted Shannon with her chair. Taking her by the elbow, he escorted her into the private sitting room. Shannon sat on the sofa beside him, while the two officers claimed chairs nearby. Mattilu was the one who delivered the sherry and glasses. After pouring and serving the golden liquid, she left the room. To make sure they were not disturbed by other hotel or dinner guests, Lamb’s aide bolted the door and returned to his chair.
Elisha lifted his glass and stated in a spirited tone, “Let’s toast the health and happiness of our beautiful visitor and victory for the Confederacy.” He lightly touched his glass to Shannon’s, then took a long swallow. His fertile green eyes never left her liquid blue ones.
She replied, “You gentlemen are most kind and entertaining. I toast your health and happiness, and a swift and merciful victory.” She took a sip from her glass, then smiled at the charming man beside her. He looked and acted as if he would be at home anywhere. His skill and courage were obvious, as were his breeding and intelligence. She could envision him standing on the deck of a tall-masted ship, shouting orders, using enormous cunning and bravery, his sable hair blowing wildly about his sun-darkened face, his forest green eyes sparkling with vitality and excitement, his white teeth gleaming in a triumphant smile. The tall twenty-sevenyear-old had told her while they had dined that he had been born and bred to ships and the sea, coming from a wealthy and influencial family of shipbuilders and sea captains. No doubt his love for the sea and adventure explained his bachelor state, for he seemed a man to attract the female eye and to win most any heart.
Perturbed by Blane’s behavior and absence, Shannon forced aside thoughts and yearnings for him. She and her mysterious Texan had no claims on each other, she rationalized. He had left without telling her and hadn’t contacted her in over two weeks. For all she knew, he might not be returning, intentionally or unintentionally. For all she knew, she could be on her own. Since they were partners and lovers, he shouldn’t be treating her this way! Maybe what he needed was a spark of jealousy, such as those he had given her on several occasions. Besides, this captain was a real man, a brave and daring adventurer who was both appealing and charming. Who better to have as a friend if there were trouble or if she needed a pleasant diversion during her stay in Wilmington?
“Molly was right; I have been too sad and sluggish of late. I fear it’s the cold weather and this ceaseless war. I’m becoming more homesick and worried over my family every day. Is there no end in sight, Captain Carter?” she inquired softly, addressing her question and focusing her attention on that compelling man.
Elisha smiled at her before responding, “I wish I could say all will be fine very soon. But I’m afraid it looks bad on land and sea. We’ve lost countless ships and supply lines, but Savannah was holding her own the last time I sailed into her port. She’s a beautiful city, as special as her people. After the war, I would love to visit your plantation; your description made it sound like a paradise. Perhaps I could entice your family’s shipping business to deal with my father’s firm.”
He and Shannon laughed. “I’m sure my brother would be delighted to meet and talk with you about such an arrangement, Captain Carter. A speedy and dependable shipping firm is vital to us. I shall be honored to have you as our guest and to introduce you to Corry.”
Elisha eyed her curiously. “How do you plan to get home, Miss Greenleaf? Don’t you think it wiser and safer to remain here?”
“I plan to rest for another few weeks, then head for Charleston by train. From there, I hope to obtain passage on the train home. If you’re referring to Sherman’s march toward Savannah, who better to protect my home and lands than the owner? Hopefully those men will tire of their destruction before reaching my city and the plantation. I will slay the savage beast if he or any of his ferocious animals sets one foot on Greenleaf land. I’m hoping the Rebel Army will defeat them or turn them aside. Somebody has to stop his wanton destruction.”
Elisha forcibly relaxed and nodded as he observed the angry glitter in her eyes. “I’m afraid it requires an evil devil to defeat another powerful and wicked devil, and heaven be thanked the Confederacy doesn’t have beasts such as Sherman and Sheridan.”
“Someone or something must halt him. What of God’s help and guidance, and Rebel prowess?”
“From what I’ve seen and heard, Miss Greenleaf, either God is not interfering in this conflict or He’s sided with the Union. We have plenty of men—brave and clever soldiers—but soldiers cannot fight without supplies. Railroads, boats, and bridges have been destroyed, so we can’t get things moved inland. Union spies get hold of missives and telegrams, so we can’t send word where to come for supplies. All we can do is send out as many supplies as can be carried or transported when regiments pass through or near ports like this one.”
“What about using flatboats on large rivers in the middle of the night? Or using pack mules overland with advance scouts? Surely there’s some route the Yankees can’t block? We can’t leave men and land defenseless. Why do you risk your life running the blockade and challenging the shoals if the supplies are going to sit on wharves?”
“Because we plan to find new ways of getting the supplies to our men. I’ll pass your suggestions along. I do have a plan to deliver a load to Richmond by docking at a Union port and coming from the North, disguising my men as Federal soldiers who are heading to resupply Grant.”
Shannon beamed. “That’s very clever and daring, Captain Carter. Surely it would work. Who would suspect such a ruse? If you could get other captains to do the same, supplies could be filtered into every area under attack. Your plan could save the Confederacy. You should guard this plan carefully, sir; Union spies could be anywhere.”
“I know, Miss Greenleaf. I’ve come
across several who were trying to uncover how we run the blockade. I even had one slip aboard my ship and try to burn her. It’ll take more than a Union spy or traitorous Southerner to destroy the Rebel Gate, or capture me.”
“What do you do with such men?” she inquired, trying to hide her anxiety. Blane had listed such a mission for this area. She feared to imagine a battle between Elisha Carter and Blane Stevens, for they appeared nearly matched in strength and skill and size.
“Men, I hang from the yardarm; women, I send to prison,” he responded, leaning back against the sofa and watching her intently.
“Women?” she echoed in astonishment. “There are women who attempt such tasks? How could a woman hope to go unnoticed on a ship?”
He chuckled at her reaction. “By posing as a whore or a friend, or a patriot trying to get to Europe to raise money for the Confederacy. I even had one Yankee sympathizer claim to be a runaway from a savage uncle while her father and brothers were off fighting the war.”
“I’m sure they all claimed innocence, so how do you know who’s telling the truth and who’s lying?” she asked, intrigued and dismayed.
“This is a depressing subject for such a delicate lady. Let’s just say I have my way of unmasking spies. I heard you agree to help Mrs. DeRossett with the wounded passing through by train. That can be a difficult and unpleasant task, dealing with wounded men who will surely become enamored of your loveliness.”
“I am stronger than you realize, Captain Carter. I’m sure I can handle the situation. Being reared as the only girl in a family of four older males, I’ve had plenty of nursing practice and dealings with the opposite sex. Don’t worry. I’ll be fine.”
One of the soldiers informed Shannon, “I’m not sure you can get home by train, Miss Greenleaf. The lines between Wilmington and Florence, those from Florence to Charleston, and those connecting Charlestown to Savannah are still intact; but we don’t know for how long. Most trains only allow soldiers, munitions, and supplies.”
Shannon smiled coquettishly. “I’m cunning, so I’ll find a way.”
Elisha related several of his most daring and exciting adventures before .the two officers were compelled to leave, reluctantly. After their departure, Shannon was even more aware of how Elisha dominated the room and captured her attention. He poured them another sherry.
Shannon felt uneasy being alone with this disarming rogue. Blane and her wits seemed so far away. As he offered her the glass, she smiled and told him, “No thank you, sir. It’s late. I must return to my room. Thank you for a lovely and relaxing evening.”
He gently grasped her hand and drew it to his lips for a kiss. He smiled as she quivered and blushed, then lowered her lashes demurely. Desire and fascination filled him. “I have never met a more enchanting lady. Must you leave so soon? Stay for a talk and another sherry.”
Shannon was tempted to comply, but this stimulating man made her nervous and wary. “I cannot, sir. We’ve just met tonight, and we’re alone. I wouldn’t want to cause gossip during my visit.”
Elisha squeezed her hand appreciatively. “I can assure you that you’re perfectly safe with me. Since most fathers and brothers are away, the code of conduct for ladies has altered. They must select their own behavior and companions. No one would slight you or darken your name for being with me. You see, I’m considered rather a hero around these parts; most blockade runners and raiders are. When we’re in port, many women pursue me or send their daughters after me. In their eyes, I can do no wrong.”
Shannon laughed at his rakish expression. “That could be true for local women, but I’m a stranger. Perhaps I would be viewed as a rival for those daughters and treated as an unwanted intruder.”
“Your last statement might be accurate, but don’t let it color your decision. When a man faces danger and death nearly every day, he finds little peace and happiness such as you’ve given me tonight. You inspire a man to defeat the foe just to earn your affection and respect. Dare I hope you are willing to see me again?” His green eyes were entrancing and entreating. “Please, Shannon, spend time with me during these next few days, perhaps my last on earth.”
Shannon realized that if Blane hadn’t stolen her heart, she would be encouraging this man’s pursuit. He was dangerously attractive and immensely sensual. His smile could make a woman’s heart flutter; his gaze could turn her body to liquid. What if she had need of a quick escape or protection? What if Blane were killed or captured? “Please don’t say such a terrible thing,” she scolded him, impulsively pressing her fingers to his lips as she mentally discarded her last thought. When he kissed them, she quickly moved them, then flushed as she lowered her hand. “Perhaps we can have lunch or dinner tomorrow,” she boldly ventured.
Elisha’s dazzling smile could have brightened the darkest corner of any room. “Perhaps we could have both. In between, I could show you around the city or give you a tour of my ship. I saw how your eyes lit up each time a ship was mentioned.”
“Sailing ships are so beautiful, like graceful birds that are swift and adventurous. My brother Corry has always wanted to be a sailor, but Papa refused to let him.” She grinned as she suggested mischievously, “Perhaps you could attract the Greenleaf business by promising he could sail with you on occasion. That would win him over.”
Elisha laughed, and the sound of it seemed honest and vital to Shannon. “Perhaps his sister would agree to come along with him?” he hinted as he locked the door behind their exit, reminding himself to return the key to Molly.
“Perhaps she would. What time shall I meet you for lunch?”
“Here, at the foot of the stairs at noon. I’ll escort you to your suite,” he stated politely and eagerly, unwilling to rush their separation.
She shook her head as she replied, “That isn’t necessary, Captain Carter. The hotel is perfectly safe, and it wouldn’t look appropriate. Tomorrow, if you would be so kind, I would enjoy a tour of the city before dinner. Perhaps I can see your Rebel Gate in a few days, before she leaves port. It has been an honor and pleasure to meet you.”
Elisha caught her implication; she would wait until she knew him better before daring to venture aboard his ship. “I understand, and I must reluctantly agree, if you’ll call me Eli.”
“Good night, Eli. And thanks for brightening my evening.” As Shannon mounted the steps, she did not realize that three pairs of eyes were watching her and making decisions that would affect her destiny.
Molly was consumed with a mixture of envy and relief. She had given up her pursuit of that magnetic rogue long ago, but he continued to stir her heart and blood each time she saw him. If Elisha was as smitten with Shannon as he looked and sounded, the redhead would offer no threat to Molly’s desire to have Steven, for Eli always got what he wanted, one way or another. But the main reason she wouldn’t worry over Shannon’s rivalry was the Georgian’s behavior toward that roguish privateer. If Steven made a play for Shannon on his return, she would make certain he learned of the romantic interlude between the Rebel agent and the blockade runner during his absence. Perhaps she should fan Eli’s spark of interest by revealing who and what Shannon was, then swear him to secrecy. The daring and ravishing Cockade might provide a tempting challenge for the rakish captain. Molly smiled triumphantly and headed for her room, delighted by tonight’s victory.
Elisha also watched Shannon until she vanished from sight. He passed his tongue over his lips as if licking away the sugary remains of a tasty treat and astutely decided there was far more to this woman than met the eye. Since she was the only woman who had ever stimulated his thoughts and feelings beyond concerns for duty or casual sex, he vowed to discover more about her before he sailed again.
Mattilu observed Shannon, Elisha, and Molly as well.
That next day at noon, Shannon descended the stairs to find Captain Elisha Carter waiting for her. As their eyes met, each smiled. They shared a lengthy and cheerful lunch before entering a rented carriage to tour the city. Elisha pointed
out the many sights and amused her with tales about each one. He was careful to keep the conversation away from the war. He told her he would give her a tour of the wharves and shops another day, if she was interested.
Shannon smiled and told him she would like to visit them, as she felt safe with him at her side. The outing was exhilarating and refreshing. Shannon was able to push all problems and fears to the back of her mind. Annoyed with Blane, Shannon was determined to have a good time with this handsome and arresting man. She delighted in Elisha’s attention and admiration. She relished his company, wit, conversation, and charm. She enjoyed feeling alive, feeling desirable, feeling safe and happy, feeling clean and warm and well fed. She even enjoyed the chilling mid-November temperature.
At dinner, Elisha couldn’t refuse to allow two high-ranking officers to join them at their table, but he resented the impolite intrusion. The men competed with each other to obtain and hold Shannon’s attention. Elisha sat back and watched Shannon charm them while making it known that he was her companion for the evening. To draw him into the talk, she continually addressed statements or questions to him. When one of the officers made a query, Shannon would reply, then asked Elisha’s opinion. Sometimes it was nothing more than a “Did you hear that, Eli?” or “Isn’t that funny?” or “Don’t you think that’s strange?” just to keep the other men from monopolizing the conversation and her attention. Elisha was enchanted by her behavior.
When the officers made no attempt to depart and the hour grew late, Shannon announced she was retiring for the night. “Thank you so much for a lovely lunch and special afternoon, Eli.”
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