Page 536 of From Rakes to Riches

Truly, it was impertinent of her.

But, strangely, he never minded her impertinences.

“Artemis and Julian are my biggest competition, but they’re also my sister and best friend, respectively. They’re family.” He let that settle into the air before continuing. “While I eat, sleep, and breathe horses—as you so aptly put it—I won’t sacrifice my relationship with my family for a win.”

Understanding entered Gem’s eyes. And something else. Something he hadn’t known until this very moment that he’d wanted from her.

Respect.

“That’s a rare thing,” she said, nodding as if arriving at a conclusion. “So, that’s why.”

“Whywhat?”

“Why you’ve been pushing Lady Artemis to run Dido in the One Thousand Guineas instead of the Two Thousand.”

He confirmed it for her. “I want Hannibal and Dido to meet head-to-head for the first time at the Race of the Century.”

“But surely they’ll meet at the Derby when colts and fillies race together again after the Oaks.”

Rake shook his head. “Julian’s Filthy Habit will take the Derby.”

“How can you—” Her eyes went wide with realization. “Oh.” Her eyebrows drew together at a thunderous angle. “If Hannibal wins the Two Thousand Guineas?—”

“WhenHannibal wins the Two Thousand Guineas,” he inserted.

“—you’re not racing him again until the Race of the Century.”

She was quick—and correct. “I’ve decided not to risk him. A win at the Two Thousand will assure him his place.”

Gem wasn’t giving up. “But Hannibal could take the Triple Crown this season.”

Rake shrugged. “I don’t care about the Triple Crown.”

She blinked, and her brow released. “You care about your sister and friend more.”

“Don’t get my intentions twisted around,” said Rake. “Come September, Hannibal will beat Dido and Filthy Habit by three lengths.”

“You’re ensuring all three horses will be there.”

“If Fate decrees.”

“Fate?” scoffed Gem, incredulous. “And since when has Fate been named the Duke of Rakesley?”

Rake remained serious. “They still have to win their races.” Something more needed to be said. “And I won’t cheat to get them there, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

Gem shook her head—and another red-gold tendril loose. “Not at all.” But she was clearly thinking something. “You have doubts about Dido.”

“Aye.” A beat. “As do you.”

“She’s fast.”

“Her speed is blistering.”

“But…”

“You were right about the correct way to race her,” he said. “From the lead.”

“The start will be the key.”

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