6
FINN
If Stevens had remained with us five more minutes, I would have shot him. Caroline and I had said our vows, perhaps with not as much surety on her part, but it was done. Stevens' part was done. We were well and truly married. Meecham wouldn't be able to touch her. No one would be able to hurt her again.
What remained was the claiming. Consummation wasn't much of an issue as Stevens had seen Caroline in a very compromising position. Not only was her virtue at stake, but my honor as well. Therefore, our marriage would hold without consummation, but to me, it was the most important part. In the eyes of the law we were wed, but I needed to make her mine.
I didn't even offer Caroline a chance to say goodbye, tossing her over my shoulder and walking briskly toward the shack. This time
