Page 38 of Never Tempt a Scot
She trembled in his hold, still refusing to look at him.
“I want my life, my freedom, my family, and a husband to love me.”
Brodie was in that moment truly sorry, for he could give her none of those.
Jane Russell wasglad to finally be out of the carriage after five hours. They needed to rest the horses before they could continue, and because night had fallen, it was best to stop and spend the night. Mr. Hunt exited the coach first and assisted her down. She stumbled on the uneven ground and fell against him. He caught her easily, and Jane’s breath caught in her throat. She’d forgotten what it was like to be held by a man like this, the feeling for a moment of being young and ... She stopped the foolish thought before it could continue.
“Let’s get inside. I’m sure you’re hungry.” Mr. Hunt offered her his arm, and they walked into the coaching inn.
Once their rooms were secured and luggage seen to, they retired to a private room for supper.
“I spoke with the innkeeper. He said he saw two men fitting Mr. Lennox and Mr. Kincade’s description earlier. A young lady was seen with them. It must be Lydia.”
Mr. Hunt sighed, the sound world-weary, as he took a seat opposite Jane. “Thank heavens. It seems we guessed the right road to take.”
“It seems we did.”
He raked a hand through his light-brown hair and gave Jane a thoughtful look. “I want to thank you for accompanying me, Lady Rochester. I’m not sure I could have handled this on my own.”
Jane knew what he meant. He could have easily made the journey, but the worry for his child’s safety would weigh upon him. No doubt he’d have second-guessed his actions until he was driving in circles.
“I am not one to be idle, and Lydia is a sweet girl.”
Mr. Hunt nodded. “That she is. It’s something I fear I did not remind her of enough.”
Jane smiled. “You know ... I had hoped earlier this spring of a match between her and my Lawrence.”
“Really? What happened?”
“I’m afraid my son’s affections were otherwise engaged. But I found myself exceedingly fond of your daughter.”
Mr. Hunt smiled sadly. “I fear I have been a terrible father. Ever since I lost my Marianna, I let myself behave blindly, favoring my youngest because she resembles her so. I have spoiled Portia and disadvantaged Lydia most unfairly.”
Jane reached across the table and covered his hand with hers. “It’s easy to favor a child who resembles someone you love. Of all my children, Avery ... he is so like my husband. I strive every day to give all of my children equal attention, but I admit it isn’t easy. My two youngest seem to slip through my fingers at times.”
Mr. Hunt relaxed, his eyes crinkling with a broader smile. “I admit, it gives me a small measure of peace to know I’m not the only parent who struggles with these issues.”
“Indeed you are not.” Jane suddenly grinned. “Perhaps we ought to start a society, one for single parents who need support in the raising of their children.”
Mr. Hunt laughed, his good humor restored for the moment. “I would certainly join.”
A maid entered the private room and laid out a supper of roast lamb and truffle soup. The two conversed for nearly an hour, long after the candles had burned low and the empty dishes had been carried away.
“We should rest. We will have another long chase tomorrow,” Jane said finally.
Mr. Hunt stood and offered his arm to her and escorted her up the stairs and down the long corridor of rooms until they reached hers.
“I want to thank you again, Lady Rochester. Not only for your support in this affair, but for the amiable company you’ve provided. I had forgotten what it was like to spend time in the company of a lovely, charming woman.”
Jane felt a sudden unexpected flush of heat roll through her. “I ...” For the first time in years, she was speechless.
“I’m sorry if I have spoken out of turn,” Mr. Hunt added hastily.
“No, it was just ... I am shocked that I feel the same way. I hadn’t realized I had missed the company of a man until now.” She ducked her head, feeling shy in a way she hadn’t in a very long time.
Mr. Hunt gently lifted her chin as he stayed close to her. “Would you do me the honor of calling me Jackson?”
He was close enough to kiss her, and for a wild moment Jane pictured him doing so. It was a wonderful image.
