BOOK 1
FAMILY
CHAPTER 1: HOMEWARD BOUND
The air was so much cleaner here. Amanda sniffed and then stretched happily as she sat up from being against her husband's broad chest. She felt his arm move about her more tightly. She looked up at him.
She looked out. "Where are we going again Robert?"
"To my brother's home outside of Shrewsbury."
"Is it beautiful there?"
"Yes. Many green forests and hills. There is a beautiful town and an Abbey. The Abbey as I remember was my favorite part. They have a reliquary for St. Winifred."
Mandy looked at him. She smiled. She was not Catholic, however, she loved to listen about her husband's strong believes. To her the religion was fascinating, not something to pray to.
"Is there a Church of England there?" She asked.
"I'm sure." He nodded. He knew she would not convert, but her hoped to raise the children in both and them have them decide. It seemed fair.
He bent and kissed her. He felt her shivering. "Are you cold my love?" He asked.
"No." She said. She gave him a slight smile. "I'm nervous."
"Why ever for?"
"I am meeting your family. All women must feel this way. I hope they accept me."
"I'm sure they will." He said. He pulled her against him. "Rest here." He said gently. "Calm yourself. My brother is as I am. Georgia is very Irish. I think Annie will love you." He smiled and nuzzled her hair. "Rest. We have a long evening comin up."
He sighed in her hair. It had finally gotten its springiness back after several months of not having it. God, he loved her. He hoped she would be happy in their new home.
Andrew had been kind enough to offer rooms in his home, which was big enough. They might eventually settle in Ireland with Iain, Robert's father, but for now Shrewsbury would be home.