Notes and Disclaimers

Disclaimer: Any lines/scenes quoted from the script of the movie "The Patriot" are done so for the purpose of continuity between this story and the movie. There is no malicious intent and no profit is gained by either the author or the webmistress.

The character William "Sweet William" Fredrickson belongs to Bernard Cornwall. He is a character and one of my favorites from the Sharpe Series and he was added for that reason. I am not sure if he like Sharpe was a real person or not so I added this just to be on the safe side.

Notes: This starts a little before the movie and works scenes from The Patriot in. It ends after. Most of the characters belong to the producers of the Patriot. Also like Scorpio I have taken the liberty of upgrading Bordon to a major since having him as a captain does not (I feel) give him his due. I have expanded on many character personalities, such as you will see the human side of Tavington's and Bordon's characters are more defined. I also have expanded on the character of the French major, Jean.

Also please note that this is only based on history. I have taken the liberty of moving events so thy fit better with the real time line i.e. cowpens in January instead of fall like the movie. "Shaving Scene" and the "Gabriel's Revenge" are at different timing than the movie as well. Also I use the deleted scenes from the movie since I did like them, but in all the scenes I used the movie script and added somethings. Amanda Janeen Tavington is my character totally as are her children.

Dedication: This story is dedicated to my partner in crime and advisor Janeen (Scorpio). Without her help this never would have been done in the time it was.Cheers to the sister I have never known and may we always think alike!!! And also to our exchange student Rudy Quass from Brazil whose constant energy kept me going...

About the Author: Raven is a 20 year old Idahoian girl who grew up in the middle of the potato fields. She has recently returned from a year in Europe as an exchange student to Germany on the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program, braving the ambassador frontier representing America. Since she has had a whole new appreciation for history. She is currently living at home, working part-time and going to school at Idaho State University. If you wish to contact her please use the above listed email address. She very willing to answer any questions, comments, and/or concerns. Thank you. Andrea/Raven

BOOK 1: The Courtship

Chapter 1
The New Arrival

The carriage bounced along the way.

She tried to sleep, but the bumpy ride prevented that. She looked about the interior. A young man sat across from her. He was a lieutenant. He was a very young lieutenant who was maybe in his mid-twenties. His name was Lieutenant Robinson. His uniform was spotless. From his boots to his collar he was perfect, the vision of an officer. He had not even spoken to her except to introduce himself. That had made for a long boring ride.

She smiled to herself as she thought of the first time that she had seen her brother in uniform. Tall and handsome in his Calvary uniform. She had only been 11. Her 20-year-old brother was a handsome rogue. Many women fawned over him, but he spent most of the ball watching out for her since their parents had not come.

The carriage lurched to the side roughly and caused her to be launched from her seat. The lieutenant caught her against him as she fell to the side and forward.

"Are you alright Miss?" he asked. He was very close. He helped her up to her seat.

She sat back. This man annoyed her without even doing anything. It was just his outward persona. He had instantly returned to his relaxed position in front of her. Men, she thought with a shake of her head.

An hour later she heard calls before them. They were going more slowly and they passed several men on foot. They entered a gate and the driver halted the wagon.

The young officer got to his feet and pulled down the glass window so he could open the door. He stepped down and held the door open as he offered his gloved hand to her. She looked about and took his hand as she stepped down on the stairs with her lace-covered hand lightly on his own.

"Welcome to Fort Carolina Miss." The man said softly as she looked in amazement at the large building before the carriage to her right. He still had her hand on his as he shut the door. A black man came to them in civilian clothes. He bowed to her.

"Welcome. My name is Matthew. May I bring you anything?" He asked the lady.

"Take the lady's things to a guest chamber," The young officer ordered. The man bowed again and snapped his fingers. More men came and began to unload her things.

"This way Miss." The officer said. She looked at him and realized she was staring at his shoulder. She was of normal height for a woman of the day, but very small next to most men. He walked with her up the stairs. He gripped her hand with his left and her elbow with his right. His arm was about her as if he thought her too frail to walk on her own.

They entered a large entry hall and he took her to the left and down a hall. He knocked on the last door to the left. The door opened to reveal another man in a staff officer's uniform.

"I must return to my duties Miss, but I am sure I leave you in good hands with Captain Simmons." Robinson said. He lifted her hand and kissed her knuckles before he turned on his heel and left.

"Welcome. I am one of Lord General Cornwallis' aides. May I be of service?" He asked.

She eyed him. He was a beanpole with a head on top. She smiled coyly. "I would like to meet the Lord General, if I may."

His eyes looked her up and down. They rested longest on the visible cleavage her could see from her low-neck dress.

"This way." He said as he led her to another door. He knocked and then opened the heavy door. A man was seated behind a desk. It was littered with paperwork and maps. His eyes looked up from his work and focused on her. His wig was powder white. His uniform was perfect. His eyes clouded in irritation at an intrusion, but mellowed when he saw his visitor was a woman. He had a kind round face and smiled at her as he rose to his feet. He straightened his uniform and walked from around his desk.

"And to what do I owe this pleasure?" he asked. He motioned to her to come to him. She tried to calm herself. This man had a commanding presence. There was no doubt who he was. "Don't be shy my dear. I don't bite."

She smiled softly at him as she came forward and curtsied deeply and elegantly to him. "My Lord." She dropped her head in a sign of humility to him.

She watched his boots move slowly to her. "The formal greeting of court. I have not seen that in years." He said softly. "I am honored." He extended his hand to her. She took it and he pulled her to her feet. He smiled at her.

"Forgive my rude entry my Lord. I could return at a better time?"

He chuckled lightly. "No now is the best time. I could use a break. Join me for tea?" He bowed to her and kissed her hand gently. "Welcome to Fort Carolina"

"I would be honored to join you my Lord." She said softly. He smiled. He offered his arm and they walked out together. He led her to a door and they walked out into the sunny gardens beyond. He called for tea to be brought to the small table under the great oak tree. It stood as a monument. She looked up. She could not see its top.

Cornwallis pulled out a chair and brushed off the leaves. "This will not do." He snapped his fingers. A man came running. "Bring a cushion for her Miss..." He faltered and turned to her. "I'm dreadfully sorry, but I do not know who you are."

"Amanda Janeen Tavington." She said.

The general's eyes widened slightly as she said her last name, but he turned to the man. "A cushion for Miss Tavington."

"Yes, sir."

The General remained standing until the cushion was brought from the house. He helped her sit noting that she sat gracefully and straight backed like a lady.

He sat down and looked at her as the tea was served. "It has been some time since we have had anyone so beautiful in our midst."

"You flatter me my Lord." She said blushing.

"No I'm being honest."

She chuckled at him softly. He was the perfect gentleman. Well he was a Lord, but he put compliments on thick. She liked that.

They sipped tea and talked about nonsense things as people always did in formal situations. They were both chuckling at a pun she had just said when she heard footfalls behind her. Heavy boots. Something sounded against them as well. They stopped just to the side and behind her. "My Lord. Forgive my intrusion "

"Ahh Colonel. There is someone I would like you to meet." Cornwallis said as he rose to his feet.

Amanda turned her head and saw the tall man beside her. He had not changed much in the two years he had been absent from her life. He had risen in the ranks, however. In his last letter he had said he was a Major in the Green Dragoons. He looked very nice in his riding uniform. He most likely stole every woman in the colony's heart looking like that. His helmet was under his arm and his gloves were off. He held them with his right hand that was at his side.

She laughed, jumped up and into his arms. This took both men by surprise. The Colonel was nearly knocked off his feet with the impact, but he somehow caught her and kept himself upright at the same time.

"I've missed you William." She said softly. "Two years "

His eyes widened as he pulled her from him to look into her face.

"Mandy." He said softly. He hugged her fiercely to him and kissed her forehead.

"I take it we don't need introductions." Cornwallis remarked. He had never seen such joy in his Colonel's gaze.

"No my Lord. I see you have met my sister." The Colonel said.

"Yes. We were having some tea." She said hugging his middle. She barely came to his shoulder.

Cornwallis smiled to himself. He would have never guessed they were blood relatives. She looked nothing like him. His hair was dark and past his shoulders when it was loose. It was bound in a regulation queue now. From the wisps that escaped her hat her hair was red or auburn. He was tall and muscular, and yet slender. She was very slight and petite with narrow shapely hips.

"You look more like mum every day." Tavington remarked to her.

She smiled. "And you are still a handsome rogue."

Cornwallis dreaded returning to his work, but he knew they would want to catch up. "If you two would excuse me, I must return to my work." He rolled his eyes comically. She smiled and turned to him.

"Must you go my Lord?"

"I must." He bowed and kissed her hand. "You two will join me for dinner won't you."

"Of course my Lord." Tavington said.

Cornwallis nodded and walked off leaving them alone.

"Why did you come?" He demanded when he noted Cornwallis was out of earshot. "This is no place for a girl like you."

She laughed. "Girl? I'm not going to be your baby sister forever William."

"Oh yes you are." He said. "Soldiers get drunk and cause problems for ladies of virtue. You should go right back to England and..."

"And live in shame another day more?" She snapped back cutting him off.

He was quite taken aback that she would dare to stand up to him. He was in no mood for this, but she was his sister, not his betrothed or lover. He would have to listen to her.

"You think that you were the only one who was affected by father's habits?"

His temper was flaring. They were both half-Irish from their mother's side. Both had famous tempers that appeared quite regularly. She had never been this temperamental before.

"In England you were safe. I had you live with the Richards for a reason." He growled.

"So I could be at court and be a lovely lady for His Majesty?" she said.

"Yes a lady."

"They all knew William." She said. She sat heavily down. "They held it against me. I could not take it anymore. I needed to feel love again. I needed you."

He suddenly was shocked by that confession. She had felt persecuted and had come to him for comfort and help. He shook his head. He had hoped to shield her from that pain.

He knelt before her sighing aloud and putting his arms about her. "I really am glad to see you." He said softly to her.

"And I you." She said.

Chapter 2
Settling In

Tavington saw his sister safely to her rooms to refresh herself before dinner. He walked to his own chambers just down the hall. God! Now I have to guard her against the King's bloody army. He could see her being threatened or worse. He would never let that happen to her. She was his sister and no one would touch her here. He would marry her off to some Lord in England. Their family name was tarnished, but her beauty was not. She looked exactly as their mother had. She was young and beautiful. He knew he was going to have to guard her like a bull. There were many bachelors who would no doubt love an opportunity to have such a lovely prize. He wanted to have her live a better life than a soldier's wife.

He washed his face and hands and then sat down to read for a time. He looked at his watch sometime later. He pulled himself from his comfortable position on his couch. He knew she had charmed Cornwallis. Cornwallis was not easily charmed, but if anyone could, naturally his sister would.

He walked to her room and knocked. "Amanda?" he called.

"Yes?" came a soft voice from within.

"May I come in?"

"Yes."

He opened the door and walked in. She was seated on a chair looking out at the reds and purples of the sunset. She looked at him for a moment. She was wearing a tight dark green dress that showed off her curves very nicely. He was not sure he wanted her wearing that to an officer's dinner where everyone would take notice.

It had gold embroidery on the top to her thin waist. They were in the shape of little flowers and leaves. The sleeves were pure green velvet. The low square neckline was trimmed with gold. It revealed some of her cleavage and even more of her porcelain back. Around her hips was also trimmed with gold.

It went very well with her dark emerald eyes. It complimented her hair as well.

Why do I have to have the most beautiful woman here for my sister? Tavington gazed at her. Her hair was in a headdress. Two braids were wrapped in twin gold frames over her ears. The rest of her hair was in a long braid that she had attached a gold tip on. He was amazed her hair fell nearly to her knees braided and most likely went past when loose.

She smiled at him.

"William you're staring."

"Huh? I was not. I was just looking at your lovely dress. I've never seen it before."

She rolled her eyes. "Right."

He offered his arm and she took it. She paused by the door to draw on a green mantle. The clasp at her throat was a lovely green stone left surrounded by a gold setting.

She lifted her dress to walk down the stairs, not high enough to show her feet, only high enough to walk easier. Tavington smiled in relief.

At the bottom of the stairs Tavington noticed some of the younger officers milling around staring in shock at the two. Tavington took pride in having a beautiful woman on his arm even if she was his sister and 10 years younger.

He led her to the officer's mess, which was down the hall to the right.

Everyone in the room jumped to their feet at the sight of a woman. Tavington led her to a free seat beside the Lord General. Cornwallis extended his hand. She took it and he promptly kissed her hand.

"Allow me my dear." He said softly as he walked behind her and gently unclasped the clasp of her mantle and pulled it from her shoulders.

Tavington was surprised by this gesture, but allowed it without comment since his sister seemed at ease. He pulled out her seat and the Lord General took her hand and helped her sit. She sat in the chair straight backed as her brother scooted the chair under her.

Cornwallis remained standing, as did the other men until all were present. Cornwallis stood and had a smile on his face. "Gentlemen. Allow me to introduce Miss Tavington sister of the Colonel. She arrived earlier today and I asked her to join us at this table." He lifted his glass. The other 9 men in the room did the same. "To Miss Tavington."

"Cheers." The men said raising their glasses and sipping deeply from their wine.

She smiled. "Thank you my Lord."

The men sat down. Tavington saw all the officers looking at her. Cornwallis was the only one who did not have some sort lust in his gaze.

"Allow me to introduce my men." Cornwallis began. "You know your brother of course Lieutenant-Colonel of the Green Dragoons. Beside him General Scott. Captain Jordon beside him. Captain Fredrickson of the Green Dragoons. Colonel Tarleton of the Green Dragoons. Major Barns. Captain Williams. Major Bordon of the Green Dragoons. And General O'Hara beside me."

She looked about. "I am afraid it will take me some time to remember your names. I am dreadful with names."

A young man with red hair and in the same dress as her brother smiled at her warmly. "It took me some time as well." He toyed with his glass. "Was your trip here pleasant?"

"As pleasant as a ship ride can be Colonel Tarleton. Is that correct sir?"

"Quite." He smiled. "My name is Banastre, Miss Tavington."

She smiled at him.

"Tell me what brings a flower such as yourself to Fort Carolina?" The man across from her asked. He was a comical looking man with a rather ridiculous wig on his head.

"The clean air, the trees, the adventure my brother." She said.

The food was served. She began to cut her meat into small pieces.

"Do you enjoy horseback riding?" One of the majors asked. He was a powerful looking fellow with strawberry blond red hair, thick eyebrows, and beautiful eyes.

"Yes. I do not have a horse, however, nor a saddle." She smiled prettily at him. "And you are?"

"Major Robert Bordon Miss."

"I'm sure we could find you both." Cornwallis said. "You brought in a mare yesterday did you not Tavington?"

"Yes sir." Tavington said. He was not sure he wanted his sister to be out riding in the woods with soldiers. Maybe if he tagged along. The only man he completely trusted in the room had brought it up. He may let Bordon ride with her as an escort. Tarleton certainly not. The women that had shared his charms had vastly outnumbered Tavington's own lovers. Tarleton was a good soldier, but a good husband? NO!

He would not let a notorious womanizer near his sister. He looked at the other men. Maybe he could find a nice Loyalist plantation owner. He was deep in thought went he felt an elbow lightly touch his ribs. "William." Amanda whispered. "They are looking at me like wolves." She said in his ear so only he would hear.

He nodded slowly. Yes they were. All, but Bordon who like Cornwallis seemed to find her charming, but was not after her.

Soon the meal was concluded. Tavington had to stay and talk about plans, but he sent his second to escort his sister to her rooms. Major Robert Bordon was about the same height as Tavington, but more muscularly built. He wore the same uniform as her brother minus the gold trim and medallion on his shoulder saber strap. He kept a respectable distance between them even as he held arm in the crook of his own. She looked somewhat like a small sprite beside him. He had a kind face and treated her like a lady, yet seemed afraid to draw near to her.

"What do you think of my brother Major?" She asked in the hallway that her room was on. He turned his face to her and looked down. He seemed surprised by the question.

"I am his second in command. I respect him as my commander, but also as his best friend. We go really far back. You know I really wanted to be a teacher until my father bought me a commission. Now I find soldiering is the life. It is the same with your brother. He is a good and fierce man who fights like me for what he believes in: King and Country."

"He has always been big brother, always watching over me."

"Someone should. The world is full of rogues."

"You are not. You're a gentleman." She said.

"I try Miss." He said with a soft smile. She liked his smile and reached a hand up to touch his cheek.

He did not lean into her nor did he push her hand away. He gazed down at her. "I can see why he wrote to me so often about you. He loves you. You're one of the few friends he has."

He smiled. "You read hearts well, Miss."

"It is a gift."

He nodded and opened her door. "I must go now. I wish you a good evening Miss Tavington." He turned and moved to walk down the hall.

"Major I would love to go for a ride with you."

"The pleasure would be mine Miss." He flashed a warm smile and then disappeared down the hall. She closed her door and leaned against it.

He is so sweet, she thought as she went to her chair and pulled out a hoop with a piece of linen in it. She threaded her needle and began to sew. She was making a pillow cover.

She looked out the window. After an hour of sewing she could not stay awake. She fell asleep in her chair. She heard a soft knock. She heard the person enter. She heard soft footfalls. A gentle hand caressed her face. An arm went under her knees. She was lifted up. She continued to fake being asleep. She knew that it was her brother. No other man would dare lift her. He carried her to her bed and laid her on it. She felt warm lips press against her forehead. "Goodnight Mandy." He whispered in her ear and left her.

Chapter 3
The Gift

She had been at the Fort for a week. She stayed away from the other officer's wives. She did not like silly women talk. Tavington found that amusing. She was more like him than he thought.

She had awoken early and left her room. The morning was foggy as she walked out to the gardens. She went and sat by the fountain and sang softly to herself. It was s song without words. She looked at her reflection in the water. Her hair that she normally put in some sort of braid was free flowing. A soft breeze stirred the morning air and moved the fog in wisps. Her hair blew about her thin form. She rose still singing and moved to the edge of the garden. The land rose up there. She could not see below her, but she could see trees rising up like tall monarchs through the mists.

"You know it is not wise to be out alone Miss." A soft voice said behind her. She jumped and whirled drawing her dagger from its sheath at her side. She slashed the air. A large strong hand grabbed and held her wrist. He prevented her from hitting him. He used his other hand to disarm her. "You know you may hurt someone with that. It isn't a toy." Major Bordon said as he released her arm slowly.

"Major!" She hissed. "You frightened me."

He looked sheepish. "Sorry. The Colonel told me to keep an eye on you today while he leads a patrol." He looked handsome in his outfit trimmed to his frame. His helmet lay on the earth where he had dropped it.

"Oh so now I have a guard dog." She rolled her eyes.

He smiled. "Yes. A fierce pit bull. GRRRR!"

He offered her knife back to her by the hilt as they chuckled at that.

"So what can we do today. I'm tired of walking the grounds."

"I could take you to the river." He offered lifting his helm into his arm once more.

She smiled. "Really?"

"Yes. Come on." I have something to show you." She looked at his excited expression and followed him as he led her to the corral. A stableboy was exercising a beautiful and majestic dark bay horse. He rode a man's saddle around the corral. Bordon lifted the latch on the gate and entered. She followed him.

"Good Morning sir." The boy called from the saddle. He was maybe 16 years of age. He dismounted and smiled at her. "Good Morning Ma'me."

He gave the rein to Bordon who lead the tall gentle beast to her. "This is Lily of the Valley. Lilly for short. She is a gift to you from Lord Cornwallis."

"She's beautiful." Amanda said as she came and rubbed her head gently. The horse nuzzled her back.

"Shall I fetch a lady's saddle?" the boy asked as Amanda took the rein from Bordon.

"No need." Amanda said as she deftly mounted in her dress. The dress kilted to her knees as she did so. Bordon and the boy were surprised at this, but said nothing. She took the rein in hand and rode at a trot around the enclosed space. She rode expertly and even did a jump. He hair and mantle flew behind her. She smiled in happiness, as she felt free.

"Beautiful creature." Bordon said watching them.

"Aye. So is the horse."

Bordon shot him a look. "Saddle my horse and bring a lady's saddle with you."

"Yes sir."

Within moments he brought out the major's horse and the other saddle. She pulled up beside Bordon. "What are you doing?"

"I thought we were going to the river." He said softly.

She nodded. He reached up and took hold of her thin waist. She moved both legs over and put her hands on his shoulder as he helped her down. The first rays of sunlight glistened down on them. He stepped back. She watched as the boy in no time changed the saddle.

Bordon led her back. His hands found her waist again and he lifted her up. She lifted her leg over the raised leg hold and sat straight backed and tall on her mount.

Bordon went to his own horse and mounted. He pulled on his helm. They moved quickly towards the gate. The gate master opened the door and demanded their business. The major calmly said a morning ride to the river and in the surrounding area. They would be back by lunch. With that, they were off.

Bordon set an easy pace as they rode down the small switch backed trail toward the river. The fog was still lifting when they arrived. It was peaceful down in the valley.

He helped her dismount. He watched her walk to the river. She sat on a rock. She sat comfortably. He tied up the horses and looked at her slim back admiringly. He came and joined her sitting on the earth. He stretched his long legs out before him as he listened to the sounds of nature about him. She looked down. His eyes were closed and he seemed to be at peace.

She looked about. "It is so peaceful here." She remarked softly.

"I know that is why I come here as often as I can."

He removed his helm. A few wayward wisps of hair were out of his tight queue. She looked down at him.

"That is a really rather ridiculous hat you know." She said.

He lifted it up to her opening her eyes. "It is nothing by itself, but crowning the uniform in it invokes fear in the rebels. The Green Dragoons are fierce and brave and can be seen from a long way off with these."

She fingered the hard helm with the green satin band around it. A black ornament decorated the left side. She fingered the thick crest plume on the top.

"What animal was this?"

"Bear I believe." He answered. She looked at it curiously. She then put it on. It was far too large and fell over her eyes, which made him laugh heartily. She watched him rise and looked up at him from under the brim.

"Do I fit the part?" She asked standing and striking a military pose.

"Oh yes." Bordon said laughing.

"Something missing "She tapped the side of the helm as she thought. "Ahh." She reached down in and in a quick movement she drew his saber from its sheath with her left hand.

She lifted it and held it before her face. This action caught him by surprise. He reached to take it back and was rewarded by her bringing the sword forward to rest on his breast lightly.

"Careful Major." She warned. "My brother has taught me well."

"Touché." He said.

He froze and lifted his hands in a gesture of peace. She smiled and withdrew the weapon. She turned to the side and played that she was parrying and thrusting against an invisible enemy.

"You are good." He remarked.

She smiled and offered him the hilt. He took it, but did not pull since she still held the sharp blade in her hand. She let go and he sheathed the weapon. He watched her as she moved to the water's edge and sang softly. Bordon watched her as she moved about in gentle movements.

"What do you dream about Miss Tavington?" He asked after several moments. She was now humming. Her voice was so beautiful. Just like the rest of her, he thought.

"You can sword fight, sing, dance, and ride a man's saddle. Is there anything you can't do?" he asked coming up behind her.

"Fly." She said extending her arms out and turning to him. He smiled. They were within a couple feet of each other.

"What do you dream about?" He repeated softly.

"Meeting my Prince Charming and living happily ever after." She said whimsically.

He smiled. Such a strong woman just wanted to find a man and settle down. That was oddly fascinating.

"You have many gifts Miss Tavington." He said.

She drew a step closer to him. "My name is Amanda Janeen." She corrected softly.

"Amanda." He said her name softly like a prayer.

She lifted a hand to his cheek. "And what may I call you Major?"

"Robert. My friends call my Rob." He said softly.

He seemed to snap out of a trance. "We should move on. Who knows what or who are in these woods."

She nodded disappointed that he had broken the romantic moment between them. He helped her mount and they rode from the place silent deep in thought.

Chapter 4
Games Turn Serious

This is madness, Bordon thought. I'm falling in love with my superior's sister.

He looked over at her. She was deep in her own musings. He looked at her profile and long flowing red hair. The shade was not known in these parts. It was only found in Ireland or people descending from Ireland, which was fine by him since he was a full-blooded Irish-Catholic. Tavington was half-Irish and only had the temperament of one. Strangely enough Bordon did not unless he was very angry. It took a lot to anger him. It did not take long to frustrate or anger Tavington.

They rode in the woods for some time and then they rode back. The porter opened the gate to let them pass. They rode in and went to the side to the house.

He dismounted before she even noticed. He reached up to help her down. She looked straight into his eyes and blushed at his look. A stableboy took the horses into the stable. Bordon led Amanda to her rooms.

She walked in. He grabbed her hand and kissed it. "I hope you had as much of a wonderful time as I did."

"I did. Thank you."

He released her and turned away. He turned back making her jump. "Will you be coming to the ball?" He asked

"Ball?" She asked.

"Yes. The officers are having a ball tomorrow evening."

"Yes. I will come."

He smiled. "Then until we meet again."

He left her.

**************************

It was some hours until her brother returned for the night. She took lunch in her rooms. She read quietly by the window until Tavington knocked on the door. She had a whole mind full of things to say to her dear brother about what he had said or rather had not said, about the ball.

"It's open." She called.

He entered. In his arms was a beautiful blue dress. All her seething remarks for him not telling her about the upcoming ball disappeared at the sight of the dress he had bought for her.

She rose and touched the beautiful satin dress. It was trimmed with silver. "Oh William " she said looking up at him.

"I had to do something so you would not yell at me for not telling you of the ball." He said. He laid it in her arms. "Go try it on." He urged.

She looked down at it and then back up at him with tears in her eyes. She stood on tiptoe and kissed his cheek. "Thank you William."

"The least a brother could do." He said. He gave her a playful shove towards her bedroom. "Go on."

She smiled and went off and shut the door. He shook his head. Her look had made it worth it. His captain had reminded him of the ball. Although he disliked the occasions he went to save face. He knew she would have found out by now and so he had to make amends. He knew her temper and she would not forgive him for such a sin.

He walked around the room, studying the small objects she had brought with her. He heard the door open behind him and he turned slowly. His mouth fell open.

She smiled and blushed at his expression. He looked her up and down. The dress fit her perfectly. The circular low collar showed a hint of cleavage and the top of her bosom. It emphasized her thin hips and waist. She went to a mirror and looked at herself.

"Oh William. It's so beautiful." She said doing little circles to look at herself.

He came up behind her and laid a small pearl necklace about her neck. He attached the silver chain behind her neck, lifting her loose red hair to do so. "You are going to be the belle of the ball." He said softly from behind her.

She smiled. She could hardly wait until the following night.

She was ready to go just as her brother knocked at her door. She opened it. Her hair was wrapped about her head. She had left two wisps curled to frame her face.

She smiled at him. He looked very dashing in his formal uniform. His shoulder strap was gone, as was his wide belt. He wore a dress saber at his side. His breeches were formal black with white hose under them that were clearly visible from his knees down. The silver buckles on his shoes glittered in the dim light from her window. His waistcoat had gold trim now and he wore a frilly cravat.

He offered his arm and she smiled at him as she took it. He walked her down to the coach that awaited them. She smiled noting that Captain Fredrickson and Major Bordon were standing outside, both in formal uniforms as well.

Fredrickson was the most interesting looking character that she had met. A musket ball had chattered his cheekbone, which left him with a permanent smile on the right side. He wore an eye patch over his left eye and walked with a slight limp. He, like many of the officers, put Amanda on a pedestal. He smiled and bowed to her. Bordon did the same.

"She smiled at them. Good evening Captain, Major. Finding everything pleasant for you tonight?"

"It got better when you arrived Miss Tavington." Fredrickson said.

Tavington rolled his eyes and helped her into the carriage. He entered followed by the major and last the captain who was shorter than both men, but powerfully built. They were off as he shut the door.

She looked out in the dusk sun at the lovely tree row they were passing. They went wide suddenly and she saw a large fountain to her side. To her brother's side was a large house. The three officers jumped out. Fredrickson held the door as Tavington and Bordon both offered hands to assist her. She took both and stepped lightly down. Tavington walked with her on his arm. Bordon fell into step behind. Fredrickson excused himself to go to his own musings.

Tavington migrated to the large back door. Beyond were vast gardens. He walked down the stair with her as he spotted Cornwallis talking with two loyalists.

"My Lord." Tavington bowed formally to him as his sister deeply curtsied. Lord Cornwallis dipped his head to them.

"Greetings Colonel. Ahh Miss Tavington. It is indeed a pleasure to have you join the festivities. Major." Cornwallis took Amanda's hand and kissed it. He still held it as he turned to the two men. "Allow me to introduce Mr. Middleton. He is the host this evening. He is gracious enough to allow his Majesty's army to camp around his lands. Mr. Simms is another brave man who stands up to the rebels."

"Charmed Miss." Mr. Middleton said taking her hand and kissing it softly. He was an older gentleman, but still handsome in his own right.

"A pleasure indeed to have someone so radiant here. You will steal the ball." Mr. Simms said taking her hand and kissing it as well. He was a portly man who was about the height of Amanda. He had a perfectly puffed white wig on his head.

She smiled and the men talked about politics which both of the Tavingtons were finding quite boring. After about 20 minutes Tavington made their excuses and walked away to the base of the stairway. He snagged a waiter and grabbed two glasses of white wine as Bordon reached for his own glass.

Tavington gave one of the glasses to his sister who held the glass and smiled at them both. "Cheers." She said lifting her glass.

The two men lifted their own and the three glasses clinked. All sipped from the unusually good wine.

They watched the activity about them. Women were flirting all over with various officers, most of whom were young and dashing and wealth.

"Colonel Tavington?" a young aide said rushing quickly to them. Tavington turned and fixed him with an icy stare. "Forgive the intrusion sir, but Lord General Cornwallis wishes to speak to you about a recent dispatch." He gave the Colonel a note, which Tavington opened immediately and read. He noted the beautiful woman between the two men. He thought that she must be a lady to have two high-ranking officers to guard her. "Beg pardon Miss." He said bowing.

She smiled a warm smile at him. He was a sandy blond and close to her age. Tavington looked up from his note. He had a strange look on his face. "I'm sorry Amanda. Duty calls." He bent and kissed her cheek softly. "I should not be long. Major can you stay with her while I am away."

"Yes, sir." Bordon said.

Tavington nodded and retreated from them. Bordon smiled down at Amanda. He offered his arm. "Will you join me in a walk of the grounds?"

"Certainly." She said slipping her arm though his. They walked about the gardens slowly enjoying the sights and sounds. He held her arm close almost possessively.

She heard music and looked up at the major. Her eyes sparkled. He was looking from her to the path and then back.

"Can you dance Major?"

He paused and looked at her. "Yes, I can." He took a step closer. "Can you Amanda?"

"Yes." She said with a grin. "Another thing I learned from my dear brother."

"Then you are better than I. I've seen him sweep many fair ones off their feet."

She chuckled at that. "It took some work. He is not overly fond of such things."

"True. I rather like them. It gives me a chance to be Robert Bordon, not the Major of the Green Dragoons."

"Ahh so there is a man under the uniform." She said. She laid a hand on his arm and smiled sweetly up at him.

He smiled back at her. God, she is lovely standing there, he thought as his eyes traveled from her ample bosom to her face. He looked about. No one was in the area. He looked down at her again. His arm slipped about her waist. He took a step closer. Her presence was intoxicating to him. She laid her small hands on his chest as she gazed up at him.

"You know you are the most beautiful woman I have ever met." He said.

"As a soldier? I doubt that." She said blushing all the same at his soft words.

"Truly Mandy." He said. He broke off instantly widening his eyes at her when he realized he had used her nickname. He searched her face to see how she would react to that. She merely smiled more sweetly at him.

"I like that." She said after several long moments.

"Like what?" he asked arching a thick eyebrow.

"How you say my name." She purred and stepped against him.

This is getting harder and harder, he thought to himself. But if Tavington finds out that I have feelings for his sister he will forbid me from seeing her or worse he will find someway of getting back at me.

He looked down at her. His control was slipping from him. She was so beautiful, so pure, and so innocent. Those beautiful lips of hers needed to be kissed.

"Robert you may kiss me if you wish." She said tantalizingly sweet to him.

That was all the permission he needed.

He bent his head down and gently touched his lips to hers. He was not sure how she would react. She did not pull away to his surprise and delight. Instead she leaned up and into him and returned the kiss gingerly.

He deepened the kiss slowly, taking his time. He pulled her closer so she could feel his passions.

She was enjoying this, but something in the back of her mind snapped and she pulled back to reality. She pushed him away gently looking breathlessly up at him. "I didn't mean that much of a kiss." She said somehow finding breath enough to say that.

She saw the disappointment in his gaze, which soon vanished.

He smiled cheerfully at her. "Join me for a dance Amanda?"

"Gladly Robert." She said as he moved her to where there was a great patch of soft green grass lay. This made an excellent dance floor. Several couples were already dancing. They went into the movements of the minuet.

Tavington finished with his interview and walked onto the terrace above the dance floor. A circle was formed around two dancers. He blinked in shock when he saw who the two were. He felt his anger rise. Then he saw the smile on his sister's face as Bordon moved her expertly around the ring. He kept the proper distance between their bodies, much to Tavington's approval. He knew his sister loved to dance. She must have asked him and being a gentleman he had complied. Bordon was a respectable man and Tavington respected him for that. He knew his bounds and would not cross them.

Amanda was enjoying herself utterly.

She could hardly sleep that evening when they arrived late back at Fort Carolina.

She slept only in the wee hours after going over what had happened many times in her head. Robert Bordon was a very nice gentleman who could kiss very well. She wished she had not stopped him, but who knows where that would have led.

She dreamed of being held in his strong arms and him kissing her many times throughout the night. She dreamed of being his. She dreamed about just talking with him. She laughed to herself as she lay in the dark against the pillows. And the best part was William did not even know what was going on so he would not interfere with her being courted by the major.

It was so romantic. Robert, Robert, my love Robert

Chapter 5
Caught!

Tavington had gone early once more to go on patrols, leaving Bordon to guard his sister. Bordon had eaten breakfast some time ago. He was quietly walking about the hallways of the fort.

Amanda appeared around noon. Bordon had her horse saddled and a picnic planned out. She walked out and thought that was greatly amusing. She was in a beautiful green riding habit. The jacket and top of the dress was trimmed in gold braid. Gold buttons decorated the front. She wore soft white leather riding gloves. Her boots were thick, but not without style. Her hair was pinned about her head under her hat of black. The remaining hair fell back in a simple braid.

Bordon gazed at her. She looked like a lady going for her morning ride not the sister of a colonel. Her petticoats were thick to protect her legs from branches along the ride.

Bordon's hair was still damp from washing it earlier. He helped her mount and then mounted himself. They rode down to the river to the place he had first taken her.

He set out the lunch as she sat looking about. He looked at her from time to time. This dress unlike many that she had worn did not show much of her lovely body. It was tight about her throat. Her bosom was visible, but not overly so. Her curvy lithe form was well hidden beneath.

They ate in silence enjoying the sounds of the river and nature about them.

She caught him staring at her. She smiled sweetly at him.

He stood up and walked to the river's edge. She watched him.

"Robert what is it?"

"Nothing."

"You're lying." She said rising to her feet.

He turned to her. His eyes were serious and yet there was something behind all of that. She searched his eyes. He smiled. It was almost adoration in his gaze.

"Robert do you like me?" She asked.

"Yes." He put his arms about her. "In fact I more than like you." He said. His cheeks flushed at the admission.

She grinned. "Oh?"

"Yes." He dipped his mouth down to her own. He kissed her softly and sweetly. His hands roamed her back as he pulled her closer. He pulled back slightly. "You bewitch me." He said

"Ahh, but the spell is about us both." She said back.

He laughed. His gaze turned suddenly serious. "I love you Mandy."

She let her eyes close as she bathed in that statement that was so true. His eyes widened to allow her to see the truth. She felt strange feeling rise within her. Tears watered her eyes.

"What did I say wrong?" Bordon asked alarmed. What did I do now? Scared her off with true deep feelings?

"Nothing. I am so happy to hear those words. I love you too."

He breathed a sigh of relief and happily kissed her. It felt so good to confess their love to each other. Bordon's tongue pushed into her mouth. That caught her by surprise and she struggled lightly in his grasp as her eyes opened wide. His hand had found an anchor point on the back of her head. He held her fast as his tongue intruded her sweet mouth and mapped the newly found territory. Slowly she relaxed into his kiss as pleasure relaxed her. She returned his kiss. Tentatively she touched her tongue to his. He smiled as small fireworks went off in his body. She was his. His kiss branded her as such. He would let no one come between them.

Not far away an intruder was watching.

Tavington had returned early from patrolling. The porter had told him that Bordon and Miss Tavington had gone for a ride in the early morning hours. He had ridden to the river and tied his mount to a tree. He went on foot to spy on them to make sure Bordon was still being his gentlemanly self.

He came from around a tree and he saw them.

He reached out before him to touch one the native weeds. They were kissing. KISSING! He felt his blood boil with anger. His trusted friend was kissing his sister. His Sister! She seemed to be enjoying the tender embrace as much as the major was. Well that was a plus he would not have to flog his second in command for rape, but he would find someway that Bordon would pay for ruining Tavington's trust in him.

Angrily he stalked toward them, removing his helmet as he did.

"Major Bordon!" He growled at the top of his lungs. "Get the Bloody Hell away from her!"

Bordon froze in the deep kiss he was enjoying with Amanda. He turned his head to the side. His eyes widened as he noted it was the Colonel himself who had found them.

"William?!" Amanda cried.

Bordon looked at her. He instantly put himself in front of her as though to shield her from her own brother's wrath. He knew exactly what he could do to someone when angry. He was not about to allow his sweet Amanda to share that fate with the others who had crossed the Colonel. He met the icy gaze of Tavington. Tavington's cold expression could have killed anyone other than Bordon.

Bordon met his gaze challengingly. "What brings you here Colonel?"

"It seems I have just saved my sister's virtue." Tavington said icily.

"Robert..." Amanda said looking from man to man.

"It's alright Mandy." Bordon said with a slight turn of his head. "He's not angry with you." Tavington's eyes flared. No one called his sister Mandy, but him. It was his pet name. How dare this man take his liberties with her. He had seen Bordon's hands wandering as well. He was a dead man.

Tavington moved closer and began to circle. Bordon kept him before him. He stretched his arms back to keep Amanda behind him at all times.

"Amanda come with me." Tavington said pausing and beckoning to him.

She did not move.

"Amanda." He barked again.

"She has her own will to do as she pleases sir." Bordon said adding the "sir" on out of habit when addressing a superior.

Tavington's eyes flashed minor surprise, but hardened at once.

Tavington took a menacing step forward with his fists raised. Bordon brought his own up. They watched each other for a window to strike.

"NO!" Cried a small green figure as she leaped between them. A hand rested on each chest she stood holding them apart. The arms slackened but the eyes locked in fury. Neither wanted to hurt her. "Now boys." She said sharply.

"I'll kill you if you have touched her other than your lips." Tavington hissed. He tried to push past her, but her hand held firmly. He did not mean just touching. He meant taking her. The other two clearly understood him.

"Oh? Why is it your disgrace?" Bordon asked.

"She is my sister and people talk." Tavington said. He could see the officer's wives gossiping about the Colonel's sister being the whore to his subordinate. He would end Bordon's life now if that was what he wanted.

"Amanda move. This is no place for you." Bordon said softly.

"No." she said. "If I do you may kill each other." She was protecting both from themselves. She could not stand the thought of them dueling and fatally wounding each other.

"I do not need your protection woman." Tavington hissed.

"Yes you do." She glared at him. "And from yourself. Would you kill your good friend over a kiss?" She asked. Her eyes flashed angrily and fearfully at him. "William, I love him. Would you rob me of that? What if you killed each other in a duel now? Who would be left to take care of me? I love you both. Do not force me to choose between you." She said looking from one to the other.

Both men stood digesting what she had just said. Bordon relaxed. He would not fight her brother. He loved Amanda too much. She saw his look soften. She nodded to him and turned back to her brother whose body was still livid.

"I'll send you back to England and have you live in a nunnery." Tavington growled. "No man can lay their hands on you there."

"So you would destroy my happiness to protect me? To save your innocent sister from worldly desires and thoughts? I'm 20 years old William. I can think on my own! I have desires just as you do."

He froze at those words. He would do anything for her happiness. He closed his eyes and swallowed hard. She smiled in triumph. She knew she had won.

Tavington sighed as he relented. He looked straight at Bordon. "If you do anything to upset her or lose her trust I will kill you." He warned softly and menacingly. "Do you love her or is she for sport?"

Amanda stepped against Bordon. He put his arms about her protectively. Bordon closed his eyes and took a deep breath before speaking his heart and soul. "I love her more than my own life Colonel. If she is to share my bed it will be when we are properly wed and happy together." His face twisted. "Do you honestly think I could turn her into my whore? She'd leave me in a moment and come to you and I would be dead." Bordon said with a slight smile. "I assure you sir. My intentions are honorable."

Tavington stepped back. He stood up nearly straight. His weight was slightly more to his right side. His left hand gripped the pommel of his saber as his right hung down at his side. This neutral position could easily turn aggressive if need be. He watched as Bordon looked tenderly down as the woman folded in his embrace. She smiled sweetly back. Tavington was lost in a swirl of emotion. Fear, Anger, Jealousy, and love swirled in his mine. He feared losing his baby sister to a man. He feared she was growing up too fast for him. He was angry with the man for sweeping her off her feet. He was strangely jealous of his major for now having a woman. But he saw the love they had for each other. He loved his sister too deeply to ever stand between her and happiness, even if he thought a soldier was a poor choice for a husband. He could be killed at anytime leaving her alone in the world. He sighed wearily to himself, but then he could be as well.

"Come, they want us back for tea." Tavington said as he turned to walk back to the horses.

Bordon smiled at Amanda as he stooped to clean up their picnic. He put it all in a basket and straightened. He wrapped an arm about her and they walked to their horses. Tavington was already there sitting straight backed and tall on his great horse.

Bordon helped Amanda mount into her sidesaddle. He took the basket in his arms and mounted. The men rode to either side of her.

The gates swung open at the fort. They rode in and dismounted. Tavington irritably threw his rein to a young stable boy. Bordon helped Amanda to her feet and gently turned to walk her to the house. Tavington, however, came before them.

"If I may." He snapped offering his hand to Amanda. She glared at him and refused. Bordon complied. He gently laid her hand in the much larger hand of her brother. She gave him a glance. He pursed his lips to stop her from saying anything.

He bowed to her and left.

Tavington escorted his sister to her rooms. He opened the door and all but threw her inside before him.

She whirled on him. "You have no reason to be angry." She said.

"I don't? So I should just give you to the wolves and let them eat you. You are my sister and I will not allow that."

"Robert is not a wolf. He is a gentleman."

Tavington snorted and walked to the fireplace. "He is a man who desires you." He faced her once more. "He lusts for you in his bed. I can see it."

"What is that man-to-man feelings?" She asked mockingly.

"What man would not desire you?" He said. He paused rethinking what he had to say. "You are beautiful and innocent to the ways of the world Amanda."

"Not so innocent as you may think." She snapped back. She went to her window and looked out. He shot her a puzzled look. He went to her and grabbed her arms hard. He whirled her to face him. He held her there in a powerful grip.

"What do you mean by that?" He closed his eyes and swallowed. "Has Bordon taken you?" He asked. He cradled her head in his hands forcing her to meet his terrible gaze.

She looked up at his face. His anger was evident. She knew most of his anger was aimed at his Major.

She looked away from his piercing eyes. "No, but God knows I wanted him to." She said.

His eyes widened. "Do you do this to injure me or are you truly in love?"

She smirked at that thinking her brother a fool for not seeing what was clearly there. "If you can not see the truth then we are no longer close as we once were."

He searched her body language and eyes. It is as I fear. She's in love. She's in love with my subordinate. This will be fun. Where will I be able to draw the line between his rank and his kinship?

He sighed and embraced her tightly. "I only want the best for you Mandy." He said softly.

She took a deep sigh. "I know."

They stayed embraced for sometime. She leaned her head against him listening to his heartbeat slow as he relaxed.

He let go of her and sat down. He shook his head. "I love you Mandy, but how could you do this?" He asked softly.

"I'm not betraying you." She said. "But I can not betray my heart either." She said moving to sit on the chair arm beside him

"No. You can not. You are after all a Tavington." He said with a soft smile. The corners of her lips lifted into a smile. They chuckled.

"Ahh yes head high and don't let what others say trouble you. You are a Tavington and that means act accordingly." She said mimicking his voice from long ago.

He smirked and then laughed at that.

"And follow your heart where ever it may lead you." He finished. He shook his head. "For his own sake I hope Major Bordon proposes to you before I must have him do it at the wrong end of a pistol."

"William?" She said in shock.

"He has started a romance with you he damn well better stick to it. He will learn how truly nasty I can be if he hurts you by pulling out."

Continue...