Rules of Decorum

by Leigh Lee

  Offering his hands, he eased her down to the blanket then lowered his body close to hers and grinned as he opened the basket. “It was not easy, but I managed to secure a special lunch for us.” Withdrawing grapes, freshly baked slices of bread, cheese and some bite-sized carvings of herbed turkey, his smile broadened as he produced a bottle of red wine. Tin cups and plates followed upon which to serve his gourmet spread.

  Eugenia smiled in amazement at the array of extravagant foods that she knew were hard to come by in this war-ravaged countryside. “I recognize the US Army issue dinnerware, but how did you manage this feast?”

  He winked and wiggled his brows. “I know some people who delight in sending me gifts from time to time.”

  “Oh.” She smiled in response to the cryptic reply. As she watched him remove the cork, she realized it was a fine wine, one of the best in the state. It was beyond her how he had managed to obtain a bottle. “Another gift?”

  He nodded and humming, he poured the wine into the cups.

  When he offered her one, she took it giving him a mischievous glance. “Captain, are you offering me wine in the middle of the day? I have been witness to your tactics in the past when you serve wine and must wonder about my safety.”

  The captain had just put his cup to his lips. He choked on his drink and swallowed hard to keep from spitting it out. “Miss Johnson, your words sting.”

  His pained grimace gave her pause. What an utter dolt. Now she had offended him by reviving memories of what had occurred in Victoria Winfred’s room. She frowned and touched his hand. “I was jesting and certainly did not intend to…Oh Captain, I am sorry.”

  Pouring himself a more substantial portion, he glanced away. “The situation you speak of was a comedy of errors and better off left in the past.”

  His discomfort made her realize just how horribly wrong she had been in her assumptions about that night. “Truly, I am sorry, sir. Will you forgive me?”

  Clearing his throat, Captain Bradford nodded, his eyes focused on her hand, which still rested on his. “Since you have been gravely ill, I would be a shame to my profession to launch a seduction at this juncture.” He hesitated as his gaze lifted to her face—his lovely blue eyes emitting sparks. “However be forewarned, I am not a saint and am sorely tempted by your beauty. I cannot promise I will not steal a kiss now and then.”

  The clarification made her blush. “I have never considered myself such, and I cannot imagine after all the trouble I have caused, why you would desire such a thing. Are you not anxious for me to make a speedy recovery and be gone from your life?”

  His brows shot up. “Look at things from my point of view. An awkward lad I knew has turned out to be a most beautiful woman.” He extended a finger and tapped the tip of her nose. “Though I suffered at the hand of the lad, I do wish to get to know the woman better.”

  Heat traveled to her face. “I wonder, sir, whether I should feel ashamed or flattered.”

  Jeff chuckled and raised his cup toward her. “My dear, as you made mention of it just now, we both have had our blundering moments. Shall we drink to new beginnings and whatever else might follow?”

  Eugenia tapped her cup to his. “To the future.” Their eyes met and the intensity she saw in his made her quickly drain her cup. Seeking distraction from his ardent gaze, she picked up the wine bottle and read the label aloud. “Rutherford Vineyards. This wine must be quite expensive. How did you manage to secure a bottle?”

  Jeff took the bottle from her and poured them each more. “Rutherford Wine is from my family’s vineyard,” he replied. “My father is an architect-turned-wine-connoisseur. He first dabbled with growing his own grapes and making wine decades ago. Now what was a hobby has turned into acres of vineyards and more demand for his wine than he can currently supply, even in the midst of war.”

  Noting the pride in his voice, she took another sip. “I can see why it is in high demand.” She filled a plate with cheese, bread, turkey, and fruit for Jeff and handed it to him. “How is it that you decided upon medicine, instead of following in your father’s footsteps?”

  Taking the plate, he thanked her and popped a piece of cheese into his mouth, savoring its flavor. “Ah, that would be Mother’s influence. She desired that I should be a doctor, and once I began my studies, I too, decided it was for me. She has long been fascinated with medicine and healing herbs herself and has become a skilled apothecary, concocting her own medicinal remedies. It was one of her preparations I gave you while you were ill, which helped, for afterward, you started to show improvement.”

  Jeff’s face came alive when he spoke of his mother. It made Eugenia a bit envious as she missed her own. “Your mother sounds wonderful. When next you see her, please tell her I am most grateful for her aid in my recovery.”

  Grinning, Jeff reached for her hand. “I know you would love her. You have much in common with her.”

  “I am sure I would. Mrs. Stewart is the closest thing I have to family now.” Refusing to let sadness cloud the beautiful day, she brightened and asked, “What is your father like?”

  Jeff’s expression became somewhat veiled at the mention of his sire. “My father is more rigid and prefers things to remain as he feels they should. Initially he did not approve of my enlistment in the army. He worried it was too dangerous. Mother has been outstanding in bringing him around.” He gave a short laugh. “Father and I often butt heads, and poor Mother is left to smooth things over between us.”

  Eugenia felt it wise to change the topic. “Where do your folks live?”

  “They live on an estate, this side of Lancaster. Though it is but a day’s ride, I have not seen them since I arrived in Gettysburg.” Holding up the wine bottle, he grinned. “But I do get frequent packages from home.” After pouring some more wine in each cup, Jeff shrugged. “I have bored you enough with my tales.”

  “I am anything but bored, sir.”

  Jeff contemplated her for a moment. “There is no need for you to continue calling me ‘sir’ or ‘captain’. It would please me if henceforth you address me as Jeff. Surely after all we have been through, that would not seen too out of the question for you.”

  The permission to use his given name, granted an incredible sense of intimacy. Her heart fluttered with excitement, imagining what other concessions he might be wont to offer. “I cannot promise I will not call you ‘Captain’ from time to time.” With an impish grin, she gave him a sassy salute. “Old habits, you know.”

  He caught her hand and kissed it—his face both amused and wistful. “Yes, old habits. I prefer them gone. So will you?”

  “It may take some getting used to, but of course—Jeff.” She hesitated a moment. “I would also like it if you would call me Eugenia.”

  “I was hoping you would allow it.” He stretched out his long legs, crossing them at the ankles, and plucked at blades of grass. “Well—Eugenia, what are your plans? I mean, after your discharge?” His face was pensive as if he longed to ask more.

  “That is a hard question to answer. I am just not sure.” Eugenia knew where she wanted to remain, right beside him. However, that would not be possible anymore. The fact was that she no longer had a home in the Army, nor could she go back to her hometown of Wellsboro. She lifted her shoulders. “I suppose I will find a way to help the war effort. Perhaps Mrs. Stewart will allow me to stay with her for a while.”

  Jeff nodded appearing relieved. “For the time being, that would please me. Then I will at least know where you are, and that you are safe.”

  “Captain, after my discharge, it will no longer be your responsibility to look after me. I am already deeply indebted to you, and though I appreciate your kindness, I do not think it is appropriate for me to trouble you further.”

  “Jeff,” he reminded her, his eyes blazing into hers. “Like it or not, Sergeant, regardless of what you think is appropriate, I intend to tag along and see this journey to its end. Do you mind?”

  His charisma made it difficult to
deny him anything, and Eugenia would be lying if she said she did mind. She gave him a sideways glance. “It is Eugenia, in case you have forgotten. I suppose I cannot stop you from tagging along.” She gave him an impish grin and for her impudent banter, he pulled her into his arms.

  “Such disrespect of one’s commanding officer demands reprisal.” He nudged her chin up with the crook of a finger. “And for it, Sergeant, I am going to kiss you, thoroughly.” When his mouth took hers, she was more than willing.

  A rider on horseback with another horse tethered and trotting behind him came up the lane toward Mrs. Stewart’s house. The hooves kicking up a cloud of dust put an unwelcomed end to their kiss. When a tall soldier wearing the rank of sergeant dismounted. Jeff rose swiftly. “I hope there is not an emergency at the hospital requiring my attention.”

  He bid Eugenia remain seated and hurried to meet the man. After a salute and initial greeting, Jeff and his visitor walked to the stables conversing. Eugenia, too far away to hear what they said, saw Jeff’s countenance change. He stiffened and scowled. Whatever had transpired displeased him immensely. They disappeared with the horses into the barn having a heated exchange. It was a few minutes before the two reappeared and began walking toward her.

  Chapter 18

  Gritting his teeth, Jeff stopped in front of Eugenia and offered his hands to help her stand. Her eyes searched his face as she rose. “Captain, is there an emergency at the hospital?”

  Removing his hat, he ran a hand through his hair before slapping the wide brim against his thigh. It was apparent he could hardly control the agitation he felt. “This man claims he knows you, but he refuses to tell me much else. Perhaps it is wiser to—”

  Smiling, the blond man Jeff had argued with stepped forward and interrupted him. Fingering a cap that bore crossed swords, the insignia of the U.S. Cavalry, he smiled. “Hello, Eugenia.”

  Eugenia’s eyes widened as soon as she saw his face. “Horace? Horace Davis, is that you?”

  Jeff’s brows rose in surprise. Horace? He mouthed.

  Horace grinned at Eugenia and stepped in front of Jeff. “It is Sergeant Horace Davis now. I am a veterinary assistant to Captain Stewart.” He spread his arms open wide. “Are you going to stand there gawking, Sweet Pea, or do I get a hug?”

  Jeff repeated, “Sweet Pea?” His look was one of surprised annoyance.

  His annoyance was nil compared to how he scowled when Horace swing Eugenia around in his arms and planted a kiss upon her lips, the same he had just vacated. Eugenia had never mentioned another man, and certainly not one she was on kissing terms with. However, as she viewed what she determined to be an overwhelming desire to sink a punch into Horace’s gut on the captain’s face, she paled.

  Trapped in Horace’s embrace, she put her hands on his forearms and managed to extricate herself. With a self-conscious glance at Jeff, she averted her eyes and smoothed her skirts. Giving Horace a weak smile, she began to ply him with a barrage of questions. “When did you join the army? What are you doing here? How did you know where to find me?”

  Horace laughed, “Whoa. Slow down. I joined right after you disappeared. I am here to bring Captain Stewart’s horse home. The stallion was wounded in the leg, and though the injury healed well enough, the horse continues to favor the limb, and the captain thought rest was in order. A month turnout should do the animal well.”

  “But how did you know I was here?” Eugenia asked.

  “Yes, well, apparently Mrs. Stewart sent a letter to Captain Stewart in a dither about a young woman she had been caring for who was near death. Imagine my surprise when the captain got a second letter mentioning your name as the one his wife was treating. Though indispensable to the cavalry, when I learned the sick patient was indeed my dear Eugenia, I convinced him to let me deliver his horse to his home, so that I might reassure myself on your condition.”

  His dear Eugenia? Eugenia cringed as the captain clamped his hat back on his head. “What opinion could a cavalryman have in this situation?” He faced Horace, dangerous shards of light sparking in his angry eyes. “Of all the braggarts I have ever met, you have enough wind to billow sails halfway around the world. Doctoring horses does not qualify you to evaluate Miss Johnson’s state of health.”

  “Captain, please,” Eugenia pled, her face growing red.

  In retaliation to Jeff’s comment, Horace startled them both by lifting Eugenia a second time. Her feet dangled in mid-air as she struggled to push herself free. “Horace, please. You must stop,” she cried.

  Jeff clamped onto the blowhard’s arm. “Sergeant, I demand you have a care for how you handle the lady! She has been very sick and is still quite frail. You have her looking feverish again.”

  Lowering Eugenia back to the ground, Horace scowled down at the hand gripping his arm. “Captain, surely the greeting has done her no harm.” Tilting her chin up to better observe her, he continued. “This heightened blush on her cheeks is from her happiness at seeing me again.”

  Jeff looked ready to boil. “You manhandle the woman with rude familiarity.”

  With visible irritation, Horace shook Jeff’s hand from his arm. “Eugenia, do I overstep my enthusiasm in any way?”

  She had no opportunity to respond for Jeff moved in closer his face inches from Horace’s. “Impertinence will get you knocked on your backside, sergeant. Miss Johnson is my responsibility.”

  Horace’s response was swift and laced with animosity. “Responsibility perhaps, but not your property, I trust. Why not let the lady decide?”

  Eugenia glanced back and forth between the two men who looked as if they might pummel each other at any moment. In her opinion, both were behaving ridiculously. The captain was far too possessive, and Horace had no right to act as if they were such close acquaintances, let alone paramours.

  She tried to disengage herself from Horace, but he did not seem willing to release her. Instead, he pulled her into a tighter embrace, all the while smirking at Jeff. Alarmed at how fast the alteration was accelerating, Eugenia pushed harder against him. “Horace, please—” She scowled until he finally released her.

  Immediately, Jeff reached for her and tucked her protectively against his side. “Perhaps you are too obtuse to realize the lady is not enjoying your attentions.”

  Horace’s face flared with angry color. “Who the hell are you to insult me so?”

  “Captain Jeffery Bradford, surgeon,” Jeff retorted, his chin jutting forward.

  Sighing heavily, Eugenia gently pushed Jeff’s arm from her waist and moved between the two men. “Perhaps if I were allowed to provide the proper introductions. Horace, I would like to introduce Captain Jeffery Bradford, he is an army surgeon who has graciously cared for me during my illness. Captain, this is Horace Da—”

  Jeff interrupted, glaring at Horace. “I heard his name the first time, and well know what he’s about.”

  Eugenia lifted her brows sharply as warmth rushed to her cheeks. The captain had never before acted this intolerant. “Sir, you are not my guardian.”

  Jeff clenched his jaw and drew in a deep breath. Whipping his hat from his head, he flicked it in Horace’s direction, his voice gritting out the words. “Would you be so kind as to tell me how you happen to know him? Guardian or no, I feel it my duty as your doctor to know your relationship.”

  His demand left her speechless and all Eugenia could do was to stare at Jeff. If she did not know better, she would think he was jealous.

  Not giving her a chance to answer, Horace moved between them, his brows drawn indignantly together. “We grew up together,” he told Jeff in a snide tone. “And had she not disappeared, we would have surely married.” Circling the captain, Horace gave him the once over. “Furthermore, what business is it of yours, Captain?”

  Eugenia was stupefied. Other than being classmates, there was nothing more between them. “I do not recall—”

  Jeff stopped her, his chilling blue eyes sweeping the length of the braggart. “I was not addressi
ng you, Sergeant!”

  “I have known Eugenia for years!” Horace said with a flick of his hand. “And your tone, sir, offends us!”

  Eugenia gasped in dismay. The rigidity of Jeff’s stance left no doubt of the difficulty he was having in restraining his anger. Feeling the situation escalating out of control, she stepped between the men again and pressed the flat of her hands against Jeff’s chest. His heart thundered beneath her palms. “Captain Bradford, please, if I could just—”

  Jeff pushed past her and leaned over Horace, his eyes narrowed to slits. “I do not give a dead rat who you are. I have invested much into Miss Johnson’s well-being, and my offensive tone, as you claim, is one of concern and caring, so get used to it.”

  The two faced each other like two roosters establishing their claim. Eugenia wished she could be elsewhere—anywhere, but caught in the middle of their posturing and aggression. She swept a hand over her pounding forehead. “Gentlemen! Enough. Captain Bradford, I am tiring quickly. I fear the wine has—”

  Horace glared at the captain in disbelief. “Wine?” he shot in angry accusal. “In her frail condition, you gave her wine?”

  Up until this point, Jeff had managed to retain his composure, but Eugenia could tell this last affront was his undoing. With menacing anger, he stiffened. “I do not need some two-bit horse doctor telling me how to practice medicine.”

  Horace flung his hat to the ground, “I do not appreciate your slur.” Raising balled fists, he roared, “Either issue an apology, or stand ready to fall. Or do you cower behind your rank, Captain?”

  Much to Eugenia’ astoundment, Jeff’s hat joined Horace’s on the ground. Yet it was the determined glint in his eyes as he answered Horace, which alarmed her. “I assure you, your challenge is one you’ll regret.” With harrowing calm, he unbuttoned his jacket, shrugged out of it, and handed it to Eugenia. “Miss Johnson, if you will hold this for me.” Rolling up his shirtsleeves, he eyed Horace keenly. “If you are brave enough to remove your jacket, Sergeant, I will give you the thrashing of a lifetime.”