Chapter 4 - Make This Night Count…
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For two unbearable weeks, Ezra watched as Rebecca went through the motions of living. She was taking her breakup with Chris very hard. Mr. Larabee, for his part, had taken off according to Buck deciding to disappear for a while. Both of them were hurting from the events of that awful night.
Although Buck had given some of the details of that night to Ezra, he hadn't told him the entire story. He wanted to comfort Rebecca, but for one of the few times in his life, he realized it was prudent to take a friend's advice. So he waited, but it was incredibly hard. The light he had always found so intriguing in her eyes was gone and she no longer smiled.
So Ezra continued to watch and wait, hoping that his beautiful Rebecca would find her joy again.
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Shuffling the deck of cards he held in his hands, he began dealing to each of the men at the table. Even with his mind half on the card game and half on Rebecca, he still had no trouble winning against his current competitors.
Contemplating his next move, Ezra suddenly became aware that Rebecca entered the saloon. Her appearance had changed. Gone was the lost, empty face he had seen over the last few days. Her smile had returned and the sparkle to her light blue eyes.
She was wearing an emerald green dress and had swept up her glorious auburn hair, leaving tiny ringlets free to cascade down her back. She was a vision and never looked lovelier.
Casting her eyes around the room, she seemed to be searching for something…or someone. Spying Ezra, she smiled at him approaching his table.
Ezra's heart pounded in his chest as she walked toward him.
Climbing the two stairs to the table, she smiled, "Gentlemen, I'm looking to join your game if you are willing."
The southerner smiled starting to reply when one of the men growled; "This is a man's game. Ain't no place for a woman. Get lost girly!"
Smiling sweetly, she replied, "Is it? Are you afraid I might perhaps beat you at your man's game?"
Snorting, he took a drink of his beer. "Ain't likely that will happen!"
"Well then allow me to join your game. I bet I can take everything you have in front of you right now within half an hour."
The man stared at her for a moment, unsure if he should take her up on her offer. Glancing at the other players seated around him, he tried to determine their feeling.
Ezra smiled wickedly, "I believe the lady has challenged you, sir. What is your answer?"
Swallowing nervously, he grumbled, "Alright, but I think this is stupid."
Retrieving a chair from another table, Ezra held it for Rebecca. She smiled as she sat down.
Under his breath he murmured, "Let the games begin."
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As each game was played, the former conman was delighted. Rebecca was a true talent. He was amazed at how cleanly she played. She won with no tricks, no sleight of hand and was beating the pants off her loud mouth opponent naturally.
Ezra loved it.
True to her word, half an hour later the man had lost everything. He rose from the table doing little to suppress the shocked expression on his face.
Showing no emotion, Rebecca stared at him, "Next time you decide to insult someone be very sure you know whom it is you're insulting."
Retrieving ten dollars from her winnings, she tossed it to him, "Here! I never leave anyone without the means of paying for a room and meal."
The gambler smiled approvingly.
The man grabbed his hat and left without uttering another word. A small crowd began to gather as the game continued with most cheering Rebecca on with each new winning hand. It wasn't long before the other two players at the table left as they too ran short of funds.
Finally, Ezra and Rebecca gazed across the table at each other. Grinning, the southerner said, "Well, it would seem it is just you and I. Shall we continue?"
Rebecca smiled in return. "You did say when I first arrived that you were looking for a challenge? Well here it is."
Standish grinned. "Why yes I did." Shuffling the deck of cards in his hand, he asked, "Name your game...stud or draw?"
Looking into Ezra's green eyes, Rebecca said, "I've always favored stud myself."
A devilish expression crossed his face, "Well then…let us begin my dear."
The games between them went back and forth, both winning and losing. Ezra was truly impressed with her prowess. He really needed to concentrate around her.
Buck arrived during one of the hands positioning himself behind Ezra, watching. He was impressed that someone could make the former con-man work so hard. Rebecca was very sharp. She was giving the urbane gambler a run for his money.
Finally, Ezra pulled out his watch taking note of the time. Three hours had passed since the start of their tournament. He was impressed.
A sudden idea came to him. "It would seem that you and I are equally matched in our skills, so I have a proposition if you are amenable?"
Leaning forward slightly she asked, "What do you have in mind?"
"Why don't we up the ante with the next hand? If you win, the pot is yours plus one inclination granted for the evening? If I win, I get the spoils and my wish. Let's make this last game draw poker. Agreed?"
Rebecca narrowed her blue eyes, "What kind of wish are we talking about?"
"Well, I think it should be something within reason…one that is possible to grant."
Chewing on her bottom lip for a minute, Rebecca finally replied, "Alright! If I win, I want the best dinner that can be bought in Four Corners."
He nodded, "Agreed!"
Beginning to deal their cards, Rebecca stopped him. "Whoa! Wait a minute! What's your wish?"
The southerner grinned. "I never said the inclination needed to be revealed at the onset of our wager. Shall we continue to play?"
She pursed her lips for a moment before picking up her cards. Her starting hand was a good one. She glanced at Ezra.
He returned her look before perusing his cards. A crooked grin covered his face. He had her with this hand.
Rebecca noticed the grin. "Nice poker face...I bet ten."
Raising one eyebrow, he tilted his head slightly, "Starting capaciously are we, my dear. Well then, I see your ten… bumping it ten more."
"Alright, I see your ten."
How many cards do you require?" he asked, his gold tooth gleaming in the waning light of the afternoon sun.
"Two please."
He dealt two cards then said, "And the dealer takes one."
Rebecca's stoic face never wavered as she glanced over her cards. She had just acquired a full house. Staring hard at Ezra she said, "I bet twenty."
"I'll see your twenty my dear, and raise you…" he looked at his cards for a moment, "forty."
Several of the spectators whistled, including Buck. He stared hard at Rebecca trying to read her face, but the young woman gave nothing away.
"I'll see your forty and raise you another forty," she replied, tossing her money into the growing pot. A hush filled the saloon as the crowd waited for Ezra's response.
Narrowing his eyes, he added his money then replied, "Alright I call. What do you have?"
Raising her chin slightly, Rebecca spread her hand on the table, "Full house, Aces over Kings." she smiled triumphantly.
"A spectacular hand indeed." the southerner responded. "You win my dear. Congratulations!"
Hoots and whistles erupted from the spectators. Rebecca jumped to her feet, her face glowing as she raked the winnings toward her. People gathered around the young woman offered their congratulations on her win.
Ezra couldn't help smiling as he gathered up the scattered cards.
He stopped suddenly when Buck grabbed his hand. "You had her beat seven ways from Sunday," Wilmington whispered. "I saw the cards in your hand. Now I know you…why didn't you tell her?"
"Mr. Wilmington…" Ezra kept his voice low, "you of all people ought to know that I was the ultimate winner of this contest."
"What do you mean? She just won that huge pot. Now you have to buy her dinner on top of that."
"Exactly! I will purchase a lovely dinner for Miss Rebecca…then she and I will spend an enchanted evening together. So you see, in a way, we both won."
Understanding flooded the ladies' man's face. "Well my hats off to you Ezra...very smooth." Thumping his friend on the back he gazed over at Rebecca, "Enjoy your evening pard."
Ezra stood approaching the beaming young woman; "Well it would appear I owe you one fancy dinner. Kudos to you on a well-played game my dear."
Smiling broadly, she said, "Thank you, but I think I was just lucky. You are an excellent player. Probably the best I've ever run across."
"May I return the compliment, as I too had to stay focused on my game. If you are ready, I suggest we go. Your night of fine cuisine is awaiting."
Offering up his arm, Rebecca took it with a smile.
'It is good to see her smile again,' he thought.
As they strolled through the batwing doors of the saloon, the twosome continue down the plank sidewalk toward the best restaurant Four Corners had to offer.
'Make this night count,'
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Two and half hours later, Ezra and Rebecca still occupied their table. They had talked about everything. He was completely captivated realizing he had never met anyone quite like her. Her intelligence matched her beauty and she held his attention in every way possible.
Before Chris had stepped into the picture, he had been trying to learn more about her, but all that had changed. Then when their mysterious separation occurred he had to wait further giving her time to heal.
Over dinner he found that they shared several common interests. They hated early mornings, loved the nighttime best, liked horseback riding, music, literature of all kinds, games of chance, and traveling. Ezra felt he had connected with his soul mate and he wanted to know about this beautiful woman.
Stifling a small yawn, their waiter leaned wearily against a nearby wall. Catching sight of the poor man, Ezra realized that he and Rebecca were the last patrons in the restaurant. Taking Rebecca's hand he asked, "Would you care to take a walk, my dear?"
"I would love to," she replied.
Rising from the table, he held the chair for her. As he paid for their meal, he slipped in a hefty tip for the waiter. It was well worth the cost. Offering his arm, the duo exited the restaurant and walked slowly down the wooden sidewalk.
Rebecca had never met anyone quite like Ezra before. He was funny, charming, extremely entertaining and a complete gentleman. The stories he had shared over dinner had captivated her. She found herself drawn to his sparkling green eyes and easy smile. As they continued to talk she realized falling for him would be all too easy. She wanted to trust him, but after the debacle with Chis…
The last two weeks had been so troubling to her after the blowup. She couldn't shake the feeling that maybe the whole mess had been her fault. Wanting to find some peace of mind, she had sought out Josiah. They had talked at length about what had occurred the night of her split from Chris.
The ex-preacher had very kindly listened to her ramblings. He had explained that Chris had troubles he needed to work through and that she not blame herself for what had happened.
She had nodded thanking him for his time.
He had given her a fatherly smile as she started to leave. "Better things are coming, Miss Rebecca. Never forget that. When something happens to shake your faith, just remember… everything happens for a reason. I'm positive something better is just around the corner for you."
She smiled remembering their talk. Gazing at Ezra, she wondered if he was perhaps 'her something better.'
Their walk had carried them the edge of town where they turned retracing their steps returning to the hotel. As they slowly climbed the stairs, they continue their quiet conversation.
Arriving at Rebecca's door, he asked, "Would you care to accompany me on a ride tomorrow?"
Nodding, she smiled. "I would love too. Why don't I put together a picnic for the two of us?"
"That would be a splendid idea. I shall call for you around 2 p.m.?"
Nodding she said, "I had a lovely evening. Thank you for the scrumptious dinner...and your company."
"You are most welcome darlin, but I feel I should also be thanking you. You were a most delightful dinner companion."
She gave him a shy blush before kissing him on the cheek. "Good night Ezra and thank you." Entering the door she then slowly closed it behind her.
Standing a moment longer, Ezra whispered, "No, thank you my dear." Turning, he walked down the hall, a big smile all over his face.
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The next day, true to his word, Ezra knocked on Rebecca's door at precisely 2 p.m. Excited at the prospect of spending more time with the handsome gambler, she smoothed her hair and dress before opening it.
"Good afternoon Rebecca."
Smiling, she replied, "Hello Ezra. Right on time." Exiting her room, she put her guitar on the floor then turned locking it. Retrieving her instrument, she said, "We need to stop by the newspaper office and pick up the lunch I prepared."
"Why the newspaper office?" he queried as they walked down the hall.
"Well, I used Mary's kitchen as I didn't feel comfortable cooking in the hotel restaurant,"
"I'm flattered you went to so much trouble, but you could have had the restaurant prepare something."
"I know, but I wanted the day to be special. I also decided to bring my guitar as I thought I could provide some music after lunch."
"I think that's a grand idea!"
As the twosome left the hotel, Ezra said, "I'll retrieve the horses from the livery while you go to Mary's office."
Rebecca nodded.
Watching as she walked away, he smiled to himself before turning in the direction of the livery.
A few minutes later, he rode up to the front of the Clarion leading her horse. Rebecca exited carrying the picnic basket and her guitar. Dismounting, Ezra took the basket securing it to his horse Gambler.
Rebecca reached for his horse's nose, but Ezra stopped her, "He can be a bit temperamental. It would be best if you refrain from touching him."
Smiling, she stroked the horse's velvety nose anyway. Whinnying in pleasure, Gambler nuzzled her hand.
A mixture of surprise and disbelief washed over the southerner's face. Never had he seen his horse allow anyone else near him.
Grinning, she continued to rub his nose. "Oh Gambler and I are old friends. Whenever I would go riding, I always brought my horse a little goodie and well...I started bringing something for him too."
He shook his head. This woman was truly amazing.
Taking her guitar, he fastened it to her saddle then assisted Rebecca onto the horse. Ezra mounted and the pair trotted leisurely out of town. As they rode, he still couldn't believe she was here with him. He had dreamed about spending any amount of time with her not long after her arrival in town.
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After riding the countryside for some time, Ezra spotted a lovely old tree near a gently rolling river. It appeared to be the perfect spot to have her picnic. Pointing it out to her, she nodded her approval.
They rode up to the tree as Ezra jumped to the ground from Gambler's back then helped Rebecca to dismount. Pulling a blanket from the saddlebag, she spread it under the ancient oak. Placing the hamper down, she started unpacking the food while Ezra led the horses away and tied them out.
Returning with her guitar he placed it on the ground by the blanket. Sitting down next to her, he watched as she spread out their meal. The inviting aroma of fried chicken, potatoes and fresh bread filled the air.
"Everything smells wonderful Rebecca. Hope it wasn't too much trouble preparing this delicious meal?"
"Not at all. It helped having a good kitchen and Mary was gracious enough to let me use hers. Hope you like what I prepared. Just help yourself."
Taking a bite from the chicken, he gave her an appreciative nod. "Mmm...good!"
Blushing she watched him eat, "I'm glad you like it. For dessert, I baked a chocolate cake. It's still in the basket."
The southerner grinned in anticipation. "Sounds quite appetizing."
They spent the rest of the time eating and making small talk. Rebecca finished her meal and wiped her hands on a napkin. Reaching for her guitar, she let her fingers move lightly across the strings. She started humming then began singing:
I don't wanna hear about it, anymore
It's a shame I've got to live without ya, anymore
There's a fire in my heart, a pounding in my brain; it's driving me crazy.
We don't need to talk about it, anymore.
Yesterday's just a memory and we closed the door.
I just made one mistake, I didn't know what to say, when you called me baby!
Don't say goodnight, say you're gonna stay forever...Oh! Wo! All the way!
Can you take me high enough?
To fly me over...Fly me over, yesterday!
Can you take me high enough?
It's never over, yesterday's just a memory... yesterday's just a memory!
I don't want to live without you anymore.
Can't you see I'm in misery and you know for sure?
I would live and die for you and I know just what to do when you called me baby.
Don't say goodbye, say you're gonna stay forever...Oh! Wo! All the way!
Can you take me high enough?
Can fly me over...Fly me over, yesterday!
Can you take me high enough?
It's never over; yesterday's just a memory!
I'm running...I was running for the door!
The next thing I remember...I was running back for more!
Repeating the chorus twice she then began to hum again.
Ezra applauded vigorously. "Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! I've never heard that song before. Is it something you composed?"
Smiling, she said, "I wish I could claim ownership, but it was written by some friends of mine. It's a favorite song. Sarah and I do a cover version of it when we perform."
"You have a beautiful voice darlin."
Rebecca blushed. "Thank you! The song sounds better when I'm able to sing the harmony line and Sarah sings the melody."
"Well, your performance was fine. Brava!"
Ezra got to his feet and gazed down at Rebecca; "Do you feel like taking a walk?"
Putting her guitar aside, she nodded. Raising her arms toward him, he took her hands in his pulling her to her feet. As she stood, Rebecca's foot caught on the hem of her dress losing her balance.
Grabbing for Rebecca as she stumbled, Ezra pulled her to him. She instinctively wrapped her arms around his waist trying to steady herself. Green eyes gazed into blue as they held each other, neither wanting to break the contact. Ever so slowly, the gambler leaned down kissing her. Her lips were warm and sweet. He could feel her respond to him as the kiss deepened.
Ezra could feel every curve of Rebecca's body as she pressed against him. The enticing scent of lavender filled his senses making him dizzy. His hands caressed her back as he drew her still closer. His desire for this woman threatened to overwhelm him. He finally drew back from her. The kiss had left both of them gasping for breath.
Rebecca's face was flushed with the heat of their kiss. Touching her lips she still felt the passion of it. She lowered her eyes trying to control the emotions that surged through her.
Tilting her face back toward him, he whispered, "I hope my boldness wasn't ill received. It's just that I've had feelings for you for some time now and…"
Rebecca stopped his explanation by placing two fingers against his lips. "It's all right Ezra, your kiss was welcomed." She took a deep breath before saying, "Shall we take our walk now?"
Nodding, he offered his arm. Instead she took his right hand in hers, smiling as she led him forward; "Hope you don't mind, but I'd rather hold your hand instead."
Ezra just smiled in return as they walked beside the nearby gently rolling river.
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Two hours later, Ezra and Rebecca packed up the leavings of their lunch and pointed their horses back toward town. As darkness neared, the sky before them turned to flame with streaks of purple, amber, and blue painted across the sky. Rebecca couldn't remember the last time she had seen something so beautiful. As darkness finally engulfed them, she stopped her horse to gaze into the star filled sky.
Realizing Rebecca was no longer beside him, Ezra turned Gambler's head back in her direction. "Is something wrong, darlin?"
"No, nothing's wrong," she murmured. "I was just thinking how beautiful the night sky was. It's magnificent don't you think?"
Turning his eyes skyward, Ezra gazed into the star filled heavens. As he did, a soft, cooling breeze kicked up, rustling the nearby trees. The night was indeed turning into a pleasant one.
Closing her eyes, Rebecca extended her arms, letting the feeling wash over her. The wind caressed her face, stirring some of her loose hair with its embrace. She smiled.
Pulling Gambler closer to Rebecca's mare, Ezra watched her. She seemed…almost blissful. Tilting his head, he asked, "What are feeling darlin? You seem so peaceful."
"Oh, I'm just savoring the breeze. If you extend your arms and close your eyes, it feels like flying." Smiling again, her eyes opened and she said, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hold up our return."
"Please, don't apologize," he said leaning forward in his saddle, "I've enjoyed every moment of our time together. You are so completely different from any woman I've ever known. The simplest things seem to give you so much pleasure. Why is that?"
Lowering her eyes, Rebecca smiled shyly, "I suppose because life is precious. I try never to waste a moment of it, even the smallest of things…like rain on a roof, gentle summer breezes, autumn leaves when they change…it's the beauty of the world around you."
Reaching out, Ezra tilted her face toward him, "Darlin, I have to tell you that just being around you makes me want to be a better person."
"You know, I think that's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me."
Smiling, he turned Gambler back towards town as Rebecca followed on her mare.
It wasn't long before the nightly street fires of Four Corners came into view, lighting their way. The twosome trotted slowly into town, they passed Buck and JD sitting in front of the saloon. Rebecca waved at them.
Leaning his chair back against the wall, Buck grinned. Noticing his friend's expression, JD leaned forward, "What's with the smile Buck?"
"Hmm…oh I was just thinking someone might get hitched around here someday."
Confused, the young man replied, "Hitched? Who might that be?"
"Well, let's just say it's someone you know and leave it at that. No sense giving it away until it happens."
Perplexed, JD sat back in his chair, mulling over his friend's words.
Ezra and Rebecca halted their horses in front of the livery and dismounted. Taking the reins of both animals, Ezra led them into the barn.
While waiting for his return, Rebecca gazed once more into the starry sky. It was indeed a beautiful night.
Stepping from the livery he held the hamper and Rebecca's guitar in hand, Ezra stopped. Rebecca was standing silhouetted against the glow of the fires lining the street, her face tilted skyward. "My God, what a beautiful woman," he whispered.
Not wanting their time together to end, the southerner hurriedly tried to concoct some reason to extend their evening.
Realizing that Ezra was behind her, Rebecca turned, "I hope you don't think me presumptuous, but I was wondering if you would like to have dinner together?" Pausing a moment, she continued, "I realize we've just spent the better part of the day together and perhaps you might like to be on your own instead…"
"Actually," interrupted the southerner, "I was trying to come up with a reason to continue our pleasant day. I'm glad you asked. Dinner would be the perfect end to a perfect day. Pulling out his watch, he flipped it open, "Why don't we refresh ourselves, and I shall call on you again in say…an hour?"
Smiling Rebecca nodded.
When the duo arrived at Rebecca's hotel door, she took her guitar from Ezra and set it on the floor. Putting down the hamper, he took Rebecca's hands in his. "I realize I shall be seeing you shortly, but I wanted you to know that I had the most marvelous afternoon. It is my fervent wish that we have another afternoon such as this…very soon."
"I would love to, Ezra," Standing on her toes, she kissed him softly. "See you in an hour."
Unlocking the door, she picked her guitar and basket and carried them inside before closing it softly behind her.
The southerner couldn't keep from smiling all the way back to his room.
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An hour later, Ezra returned to Rebecca's door and knocked softly.
Only a minute passed before the door popped open as Rebecca stepped into the hallway, "Why Mr. Standish, what a pleasure it is to see you again."
Grinning, Ezra took her hand kissing it. "Thank you Miss Dannon, and may I say it is a pleasure to see you again too."
Blushing slightly, she took his arm. "Sorry if I'm a bit giddy, but I feel really happy right now."
Ezra patted her hand. "No need to apologize, my dear, as I'm having similar feelings. It's a rather interesting sensation, wouldn't you agree?"
She nodded. "So where shall we have dinner? I'm quite content with the hotel restaurant."
"Are you sure? I'm prepared to take you wherever you wish to go?"
"I know, but here is fine. It's the company, not the place,"
Ezra paused before saying softly, "My feelings exactly darlin. Perhaps after dinner, we might engage in a bit of stargazing. I've been told it is a beautiful night for it."
Smiling, Rebecca said, "You don't say."
Laughing quietly at their private joke, the twosome entered the hotel restaurant.
Their dinner together was wonderful. Even more so than their first one.
Afterwards, Ezra offered her his arm and led Rebecca to a spot he had picked on the edge of town. Spreading his blanket, the twosome continued to enjoy what was turning into a very pleasant evening. Rebecca turned her gaze toward the star laden sky.
Smiling, Ezra kept his eyes solely on her.
Without shifting her gaze, she murmured, "You're supposed to be watching the stars not me."
"I find you to be a more heavenly sight, " he said softly.
"But aren't the stars lovely too."
"Not in the same way. Besides you're closer."
"Well, you can't spend all evening gazing at me?"
"Why not?"
Smiling in response, Rebecca looked at the southerner. "Well you're missing out on a spectacular evening." Patting her lap, she continued, "Why don't you stretch out on the blanket and put your head here. That way you can tell me about the different constellations. After all, you did promise you would during dinner."
"That's true, I did say that."
Removing his hat, Ezra stretched out on the blanket placing his head in Rebecca's lap. "Which constellation should I begin with?"
"Pick your favorite and begin with it."
"Alright, see that row of stars directly overhead…"
As Ezra spoke, pointing from one constellation to another, Rebecca absentmindedly ran her fingers through his hair. Her caresses were feathery soft against his temples Unable to resist; he captured one of her hands kissing it before allowing it to continue on its way.
Rebecca smiled down at him.
Ezra sat up suddenly drawing her into his embrace, kissing her. Her mouth opened to him as he kissed her deeply. A soft sigh escaped from her as she pressed herself against him. Ezra wanted her...more than any woman he had known.
Instead, he contented himself with holding her in his arms, having her close. She snuggled against him, comfortable in his embrace. They sat this way for some time, neither one speaking, both content in the glittering silence of the night.
Rebecca rested against Ezra's chest, listening to the beating of his heart. At first, it raced with the emotions of the moment then slowed into a quiet, steady rhythm. Closing her eyes, she relaxed as his chest rose and fell with his gentle breathing.
Finally, Ezra murmured, "Well...I should get you back to your room as the hour is late."
Pulling away from his arms, Rebecca smiled, "I could have stayed like this all night. You make me feel so safe."
"I would have gladly held you all night," he whispered.
"I believe you would have."
Ezra smiled gently, "Its true."
"You are so different from any man I've ever known," Rebecca replied, gently caressing his face.
"I suppose I am," he smiled, "but then you are unlike any woman I've ever known."
"Perhaps that's why you and I found each other,"
Ezra pondered her words as he got to his feet. "That could be darlin. Personally, I am glad we did."
Rebecca nodded as he helped her to stand. She started to walk back to town, when Ezra stopped her. She could see he had something on his mind.
"Is everything alright? You look so serious."
He nodded before taking her hands. "I wanted to say this while we're alone as I don't wish to be interrupted." Pausing for a moment he wet his lips, "I've enjoyed our time together today. You are the most incredible woman I've ever met. If you're agreeable, I wish to continue seeing you on a regular basis. I care for you Rebecca and wish it known that I do."
Rebecca lowered her eyes for a moment before bringing them back to his anxious face. "Are you saying you want us to go steady?"
Ezra looked confused, "Steady?"
Rebecca thought about what she said then mentally kicked herself. That phrase probably got started in the 20th Century and wasn't familiar with it. Thinking fast she replied, "Are you saying you wish to court me?"
"Yes…I wish to court you."
"I would very much like that," she replied touching his face. Ezra captured her hand, bringing it to his lips.
Rebecca smiled before saying, "You're very special, Ezra."
Smiling, he offered her his arm as they strolled back to the hotel.