Should he knock?
His hand raised in a fist just inches from the wood separating him from Amelia. But then, in a show of cowardice he hoped would never be found out, he flexed his hand and reared back.
He could and should wait until someone informed him of her condition. It had been hardly half an hour. Hecouldwait.
I can wait.
He stepped away from the door again, walking toward his bed.
I can wait.
He shoved his hands in his pockets to give them something to do.
I can wait.
He turned on his heel, pacing back toward the connecting door. His eyes focused on his feet, as he repeated the mantra in his mind.
I can—OW!
With a resoundingcrack, his downturned head rammed straight into the connecting door. Stumbling backwards, he stared at the door incredulously. Of all the ridiculous things he—
The door opened, and Mary’s face became visible on the other side. “Did you knock just now, my lord?”
Edward rubbed his head. “Er, not exactly.” Well, that wasn’t much of a response. “I mean, it was accidental.” Not particularly improved.
“Oh. Well, might I help with something?” Mary was already inching the door closed; Edward saw his chance and had to take it.
“Amelia.”
Mary stopped. Edward rubbed his throbbing head again; it really did hurt. “Is she awake? I thought I heard—but then—”Gads man, get a hold on yourself. Edward could not recall a time his tongue had been so deviant and confused.
But apparentlysomethinghad worked, for a sparkle entered the maid’s eyes, and she brought the door close to her shoulder, glancing behind her. “She is, my lord.” Her words were a near whisper. Why? “She appears much improved and wished to prepare for the day. She is, even now, taking a bath.” Mary stopped herself, seemingly unsure that she should have revealed that fact.
For his part, Edward swallowed. Amelia was well, and that was all that mattered.
He must have looked particularly moonstruck, for Mary spoke again.
“Did you wish to speak with her, my lord?”
“Now? Gads, no!”
Mary pressed her lips together in a barely contained smile. “Begging your pardon, my lord. I certainly did not mean just this moment. Perhaps I can tell her you inquired?”
“Yes.” Edward froze. Was he ready to speak with her? What would he say? “Er—no. No, that is quite all right. I will... I will—that will be all, Mary.”
Bewildered, the maid curtsied and closed the door softly.
Edward swore.
Being in love was unfair. It took not only your heart, but also your mind, tongue, and general confidence. And the last three Edward was fairly sure had been thrown out the window of a speeding carriage and would never return. He sank onto his bed, rubbing his jaw intently. Hedidneed to speak with Amelia, but he hadn’t any wish to summon Mary again, not after that embarrassing display. Edward might have to avoid the maid for a fortnight now.
But how else could he ensure that he would see Amelia? The remainder of the servants already thought he’d lost his mind—he could enlist their help. But he rather wished the whole householdnotto know what he was about.
Therefore, it was good that when Amelia finally emerged, Edward could guess where she would go first.
The music room.
Chapter Thirty-Four
