“Well then,” she said in satisfaction.
“Well what?”
“If we had one, then we could tuck this lot up in those furs that attacked you yesterday, and send them off for a nicelongdrive.”
He blinked, then followed her train of thought. “So if it snowed and shooting was out of the question…”
“We could still have a bit of peace and quiet if they were enjoying a jolly sleigh ride,” she finished for him. “And we could make sure that the sleigh was well equipped with various warming beverages…”
Visions of his guests ending up head first in icy streams after trying to stand up in a moving sleigh darted across Paul’s brain with terrifying alacrity. “Er, best not the brandy. We want them to enjoy a few hours outside, not kill themselves, which I imagine might well result from mixing that lot with snow and ice and liquor.”
“Point taken,” sighed Harriet. “But I still think it might work…”
“I agree. I might pop down to the stables when I have chance, and see if the local lads know of anyone with a sleigh. It’s a good idea, Harry.” He smiled at her. “Feel free to have more.”
She chuckled. “Of course.” She gathered her papers and stood. “But now I must set things in train for this evening. Thank God my only duty will be to serve tea. I can’t ask the maids to do that; they’ve worked very hard today. So I don’t see any point in my being there for whatever frivolities they have in mind.”
Paul’s spirits dropped. She was right. It was his duty to be present at dinner, overseeing the footmen. And he would have to be available until everyone had retired for the night.
God knew when that would be.
“Harry, about this whole married business…” he began, “We should probably talk…you know…”
He was about to broach the awkward subject when a bell rang. It was Sir Farren.
“Oh well, later then,” sighed Paul. “The beasts are stirring in the jungle.”
“Shhh.” Harriet held a finger to her lips, but her grin spoke volumes. She’d never had a husband before - in fact she’d actively avoided them. However, if shehadto pretend to be married…well, the number one name on her list had already volunteered. So why not go along with the masquerade?
It also helped that his was theonlyname on her list…
