Chapter Six
Unaware that her future had been discussed and settled by her brother and James, Letitia was walking in the opposite direction, away from Ridlington, with her companion.
“And why are we going to the village, again?” Harriet looked at her.
“I told you. We need the exercise and fresh air.”
Letitia’s breezy response immediately had Harriet wondering what the real reason might be. “I see,” she answered.
Letitia glanced over at her. “Harry, am I working you too hard?”
“Good Lord no. In fact, you don’t give me enough to do.”
“You see, I’m not sure exactly what a maid should be doing. So I thought I should ensure that you’re not overworked. Especially since there are no wages involved.” Letitia looked a little embarrassed.
“Oh, please, Letitia. We both know that I’m not really a maid, and since my only experience with one was the poor woman who waited on my aunt, hand and foot, I can say with the utmost certainty that you are not overburdening me at all.”
“You are sure?”
“Of course. You retire early and other than untie your laces, and hang your gowns, I have nothing else to do. You allow me to bring you tea in the morning, but most often you are already up and almost dressed. During the day? Barely anything.”
“I do make you walk with me…”
“And that is a pleasure, for both of us I hope.”
Letitia smiled. “Indeed it is. I count it most fortuitous that we met, Harry. For I didn’t need a maid. I realize that now. What I did need? A friend.”
“And you have one.”
“I do. I’m most grateful.” She linked her arm through Harry’s. “Now. I have been giving much thought to the matter of my manuscript.”
“Ah.” Harriet remained cautious. She was learning that Letitia, delightful young lady though she was, had a side to her that was unexpectedly adult and definitely determined. The unexpected was fodder for her ideas, as could be seen from the contents of the book. The determination was evident in her eyes.
Harry had read it from cover to cover. She was convinced that it might well have changed her life forever. The knowledge she had gleaned…well it was shocking, of course. But so fascinating. Thanks to Letitia’s unique volume, Harriet found herself wondering if intimacy with a man might not be as objectionable as she had come to believe.
Of course, it had to be the right man.
“It seems that gaining some first-hand experience is the only way I’m going to be able to fulfil the terms of the contract.”
Harry blinked as the full meaning of Letitia’s statement sank in. “Uh…”
“What I am going to need is someone who will assist me in my research.”
“What?”
“You heard me.” Letitia chuckled. “I need a willing subject.”
“A willing subject?” repeated Harry, just to be sure she’d heard aright.
“Yes. I need a gentleman who will assist me in discovering some of the…the…sensual experiences that apparently my book is lacking.”
Harriet stopped, pulling Letitia to a halt beside her. “Letitia. As your friend, it is definitely incumbent upon me to encourage you to think this plan through.”
“Oh, I have. Believe me.” Letitia started to walk again. “I see no obstacles to the plan.”
“Wait.” Harriet stopped her once more. “You’re looking for a man, someone you’ve probably never met, to engage in…in…”
“Sexual caresses. Yes.”
