Page 104 of The Duke and the Lady in Red
“Mine.”
They walked down the hallway to Harry’s smaller library. Gerald saw to it that a small fire was burning in the hearth.
“Ring for me when you’re ready for bed, sir,” Gerald said.
“I will,” Harry promised. “Thank you, Gerald, for everything.”
“It is my utmost pleasure, sir.” Back straight and stiff, he strode from the room.
“Here, Harry,” Rose said, tugging on his jacket. “Let’s get you comfortable while Avendale pours the drinks.” She helped him out of his jacket, unbuttoned his waistcoat, loosened his neck cloth. “Go ahead and take a chair.”
“A gentleman—”
“I know what a gentleman does, but you’re my brother, and I can see how weary you are. Sit.”
He didn’t argue further, but dropped into the large plush chair. Avendale brought over their drinks and guided Rose to the settee. She watched as her brother slowly drank his scotch, seemed to savor it.
“Did you enjoy yourself tonight, sweeting?” she asked.
“Very much indeed.” He nodded toward Avendale. “I like them all, your friends. Especially Aphrodite. Even though I know you paid her to keep me company.”
“I offered. She refused. Seems she’s never met anyone she likes more than she likes you. Perhaps she can keep you company some afternoon.”
“I would like that.”
“I’ll send word to her tomorrow.”
Rose wasn’t going to worry that Harry might be disappointed, that tonight’s attentions had been merely a result of the occasion. He possessed an innocence, a charm that would appeal to the most hardened woman.
“When you do, address the missive to Annie,” Harry said.
“Who the deuce is Annie?” Avendale asked.
“That’s her true name.”
Grinning, Avendale bowed his head slightly and lifted his glass, a warrior saluting an opponent who had bested him. “She never shared that with me. I’d say she liked you a great deal.”
Harry blushed, but looked remarkably pleased with himself. He was also extremely tired. Rose could see it in the slump of his shoulders, the listing of his head to one side.
“We should let you get some sleep.” As she rose to her feet, so did he. “We shall all sleep late in the morning. It’s what one does after a night such as this.”
“It was a wonderful gift, Rose. A wonderful gift. For one night, I was normal.”
She hugged him hard. “To me, you’re always normal. I love you, Harry.”
She felt the squeeze of his arms. “I love you, Rose.”
Leaning back, she smiled up at him. “Sleep well, my dearest.”
“I will.” Then he shook Avendale’s hand. “Good night, my friend.”
“Good night, Harry. I’ll have Gerald sent in.”
“Not yet. I’m going to write for a bit. I’ll ring for him when I need him.”
“As you wish. We’ll see you tomorrow.”
Reaching out, Rose squeezed Harry’s hand. She didn’t know why she was so reluctant to leave him. She might not have if Avendale’s arm hadn’t come around her, propelling her forward.
