*Summer*

Finally, we reach our destination and disembark. With my hand nestled in his, I lead him through the gate … The sisters never lock it; they are a trusting lot … and around to the back, to the kitchen where I had left a solitary lit lamp on the table that is mainly used for preparing food. The sisters have no servants but tend to everything themselves.

When the door is closed, rather than releasing his hold on my hand, he pulls me toward him as though on the verge of leading me into a dance. His hands come to rest lightly on the small of my back, while...