He did not understand why he was so elated to see Harriet. But now that he had come upon her while she was lost in prayer, he felt like a trespasser.
What was he to do?
He did not wish to disturb her.
However, she rose and turned just as he was about to quietly back out. “Your Grace,” she said, casting him another of her breathtaking smiles, “I did not realize you were here.”
He smiled in return. “I could lie and tell you that I often seek comfort in daily prayer here, but I think the dust piled on the altar and pews would give me away.”
“It is just dust and easily wiped off,” she said with a lilting laugh, walking to his side. “This little chapel is not in bad condition, just a bit neglected. Do you mind that I ventured in here?”
“Not at all. I’m glad someone will finally put it to good use.”
“I’ll bring some rags and a bucket of water down with me tomorrow and clean—”
“You will do no such thing. I have servants for that task,” he said more sharply than intended.
“But I don’t mind—”
“You may supervise,” he said more gently, not understanding why he was so put out by her offering to clean the chapel. Perhaps it was because he wanted to treat her like a princess and not one of the scullery maids.
In honor of her brother’s memory, of course.
There was no other reason for his yearning to pamper her.
Besides, she was a little thing.
Would she have the strength to carry a bucket filled with water all the way down here?
Once they were outside, she ran a hand down the front of her gown to wipe away a few smears. It was the same green muslin she had worn yesterday, but that was no surprise since she hardly had a wardrobe.
He took a moment to study her while she was distracted by her task.
Lord, she was pretty.
He had thought the same yesterday.
More so today since she was well rested and had been adequately fed.
Her hair shone a lovely copper in the sunlight.
She looked up and smiled at him again.
This.
This is what he wanted in a wife.
Big eyes.
Dimples.
Someone who warmed his cynical heart with her sunshine smile.
Well, he had six more young ladies to meet.
Would any of them outshine Harry?
CHAPTER THREE
