William led them to the edge of the pond then dismounted and turned to her. “Allow me to help you down.”
“My horse can drink without me dismounting.”
So she was afraid to leave her saddle. He met her eyes, and the corner of his mouth tipped up. “True. However, I’d like to spend a bit of time here.” He strode closer and reached out his hand. “Allow me to help you down?”
She jostled her reins between her hands. Glanced around the open space then returned her attention to him. “The afternoon grows late, Your Grace.”
“You’re afraid,” he challenged.
“Not in the least,” she said, her eyes narrowing.
“Prove it.” He reached out and scooped her from her horse.
Olivia squealed as he swung her through the air before placing her feet on the ground. She peered at him, her lips slightly puckered.
Lord, she was beautiful even in her anger. He’d endeavor to cause her vexation more often if only to see that fire in her gaze.
“You got too far,” she seethed.
“My apologies.” He gave a slight bow.
She took a step back, her amber eyes locked on his. “I’m not a simpering miss to be ordered around and handled at your will.”
“Duly noted.” Perhaps, for now, he should endeavor to woo her. “I see that you have a strong, independent nature. How is it that you have become known as a wallflower when your actions are in direct opposition?”
“I choose to be such.” She turned away from him and stroked her hand up and down the mare’s neck.
“Why would you choose to stay apart from your peers?” He asked as he drew nearer to her.
Olivia ignored his movement as she continued petting her horse. “I had no reason to engage them. I was already promised to you.”
His gut clenched at the realization that he’d doomed her to years of loneliness and board by ignoring his responsibility to her. He placed a hand on her shoulder and said, “I’m truly sorry that I did not come for you sooner.”
She shrugged his hand away. “Don’t be.”
“Why shouldn’t I regret my actions?” He asked.
Olivia spun around to face him. “I choose not to engage society. Even after I determined you were not going to step up, I choose to remain a wallflower. It is my wish.” Her gaze grew hard. “Marriage is not a desire of mine.”
His jaw twitched and tightened at her proclamation—at the determination in her voice. “That is unfortunate because I am quite determined to do my duty.”
“Unfortunate, indeed.” She released a sigh as she glanced out at the pond. “I would very much like to return to the house now.”
“As you wish.” He returned to his mount and swung into the saddle before looking over at her.
Olivia had one foot in the stirrup, her hand on the saddle. She pulled and jumped, but could not quite manage to mount. More evidence that she was merely pretending to know what she was about.
William ignored the urge to tease or chastise and moved to help her. Without a word, he lifted her onto the saddle. Olivia simply notched her chin, took the reins, and nudged her horse.
By the time he remounted, she was well on her way.
He made no effort to catch her. Instead, he rode along a few furlongs behind. He had no wish to further upset her today. In fact, he now had the urge to make thing up to her. She could hardly be blamed for making other plans for her life when he’d neglected her so severely. A fact he could now kick himself for.
He owed her a great debt. There was nothing for it. William would have to woo her—make her want him for a husband and a friend. Spark her desire and make up for the years of neglect he’d bestowed upon her.
He fervently hoped she would come around before their wedding, but fully intended to marry her nonetheless. He had no choice in that regard. He would do all he could between now and then to win her.
If he failed… No, that was not an option.
