Page 20 of Nothing But a Rakehell
“Lord Keswick,” she called, as soon as she spotted him. “Come and meet Mr. Lycett.”
He approached and she made the introductions. “Mr. Lycett is the squire’s nephew. He’s visiting over at Stroud Hall and will be joining us, along with his family, for some of the house party entertainments.”
“It is very kind of you to include me,” the young man said, watching her closely.
“Not at all. It’s all Hope’s doing. She’ll be so sorry she wasn’t here to offer you tea this morning.” She smiled, but seemed a bit tense. “Mr. Lycett made a delivery for us this morning.” She gave him a nod. “And I do thank you for it, sir. You are very kind to see to it yourself.”
“It was my pleasure. In fact, as soon as I heard it was your request, I told my uncle I would fulfill it myself.”
“We must thank you for your attention,” she answered. “It is very much appreciated.”
The man bowed and waited an awkward moment, but she offered no further comment.
“Well, then. I’ll be off.” Mr. Lycett gave up at last. “A pleasure to meet you, my lord.” The young man made his bow and reached for Lady Glory’s hand, as if he was going to kiss it. She grasped his hand instead and gave it a good shake. “Good day, sir. And thank you. We will see you soon.”
“Good day. I look forward to it.”
She waited until he was gone from the hall before she stood and took a step forward. “I owe you an apology, Lord Keswick,” she said directly.
She did, by God. His pride still smarted. He waited. And examined the plain but sturdy habit she wore today. It wasn’t as bright and pretty as the sprigged muslin she’d worn yesterday, but it looked comfortable—and the dark fawn color brought out the amber in her eyes. It suited her.
“I was wrong to make assumptions about your response to my lameness—and thus to your character. I do offer my sincerest regrets.”
He nodded. “Thank you.”
“And to prove the depth of my sincerity, I offer a diversion.”
“Even better,” he said with approval. “What did you have in mind?”
“Ride out with me?” She led him to the door and gestured outside. Mr. Lycett was gone, but her mare waited in front of the house, along with a splendid, sturdy looking chestnut.
“I begged the use of the squire’s gelding a tad early,” she said. “That’s the delivery Mr. Lycett spoke of. He’s a prime goer. You’ll love him.”
“Mr. Lycett? Or the horse?”
“I meant the horse,” she laughed up at him. “But Mr. Lycett may be a prime goer, as well. I have no idea.”
They walked down to where her mare waited, already saddled.
“Confident, were you?” he asked wryly.
“Hopeful,” she corrected. Glancing up at him through her lashes, she said sweetly, “I’ll show you one of my favorite spots on the estate, if you’ll agree to come out.”
The zing of interest that started at the base of his spine and spread up and out had him glancing around for an attendant. “Shouldn’t we take a groom with us?”
Her look turned pitying. “Well, I’ve no need of one, but if you require someone to help you mount or hold your horse or fetch your hat when it blows off . . .”
He rolled his eyes. “I was thinking of the propriety of it all. Perhaps we can catch Mr. Lycett before he sets off for home.”
“Oh, we’ll see plenty of him soon enough. The place will be overrun with people within a day or so. Let’s enjoy the quiet while we can.” She laughed. “I solemnly swear not to assault your virtue, my lord. Now, shall we go?”
He hesitated a moment longer. Was this just a more innocent-seeming scheme to get him into a compromising position? Was she playing Miss Vernon’s game—only better?
He looked at her, at her bright smile and slightly wistful gaze—and he could not believe it. He shrugged and nodded.
“I had the footman bring your hat and gloves.”
“Confident, as I suspected.” He took the articles from the man and asked him to inform Lord Tensford of their whereabouts, when the earl returned. Outside, they walked the horses to the stables, and had the chestnut saddled. Once they were ready, he lifted the minx into the saddle and mounted up, following her behind the stables and to an unfamiliar part of the estate.
