“You haven’t finished your tea, My Lord!” the pretty American chit implored with a pout.
“I’ll return shortly.” Sebastian extricated himself from her hands, having no desire to sit around drinking tea.
Perhaps Lady Asherton wanted him to follow her—expected it even.
Taking a moment to ascertain that the lady was no longer outside, Sebastian sauntered across the lawn toward the manor. Likely, she had retreated to her private chamber.
Which oughtn’t prove to be too difficult of an obstacle.
Danbury’s ancient retainer met him with a quick bow the moment Sebastian entered through the front door. “Is there anything I can do for you, My Lord?” The gentleman had been exceedingly helpful even though Sebastian had arrived at such a late hour the night before.
“You do sleep, don’t you, Milton? You were up and about when I arrived and again before my ride this morning, and this afternoon, you appear as alert and commanding as Wellington himself.”
The butler straightened his back and lifted his chin. “Thank you, My Lord, and yes. I manage to capture a few winks when I can. Although I’ve never required more than four or five hours a day.”
Sebastian shook his head in admiration. “Amazing. Have you always operated on so little sleep? Imagine what could be accomplished in Parliament with someone like you at work.”
At this suggestion, Milton’s eyes widened. “I’m quite certain I don’t know, My Lord.”
“Well, you’re a better man than I. Say, Milton, did Lady Asherton come through here?”
“She did, My Lord.”
Sebastian smiled conspiratorially. “I wished to speak with her a moment in private but have no idea where she took off to.”
“I believe she was headed for Lord Danbury’s private library. Second floor, sixth door on the left.”
Sebastian pounded a fist to his chest. “You’re irreplaceable, Milton.” Backing away, he strolled along the foyer and then took the stairs two and three at a time. When he turned the corner, serendipity stepped in, bringing him face to face with Lady Asherton herself.
In fact, he nearly ran her over and was forced to grasp her by the arms so that she would not bounce off him and end up on the floor.
She had removed her bonnet and soft hair tickled his chin before she could steady herself enough to step backward. A few of the hairs stuck to her forehead and she glowed with a warm flush. When he inhaled, ah yes, he recognized the scent.
Lavender. She wore lavender.
“Pardon me, My Lord,” she gasped, her mouth parting so that he could just make out the white of her teeth.
“It seems you are destined to fall into my arms at this house party.” He slid his gaze down the length of her, smiling, as he said the words, By the stern look she sent in his direction, however, he doubted she found any humor in their situation.
And then her eyes, appearing more brown than green in the softer light indoors, shifted to the left and then the right. Anxiety rolled off her in waves. “If you’ll excuse me.”
Ah, she was going to pretend it hadn’t happened.
“You are just as lovely in the daylight, but not as… accommodating.” The temptation to tease her was too great to ignore.
Danbury’s housekeeper entered the foyer from a nearby room and Lady Asherton jumped and then hastily shushed Sebastian’s laughter. Catching sight of the two of them, the servant stared in their direction curiously. “Is there anything I can do for you, My Lord, My Lady?”
“We’re fine. Thank you,” Margaret rushed to answer.
“A dram of spirits would be most appreciated.” Sebastian winked at the woman.
“His Lordship is only joking. The last thing he needs right now is a dram of anything.”
“Ah, yes, Lady Asherton knows me better than I know myself.” Sebastian would have laughed again at the scowl she sent in his direction if he didn’t think she might give him a facer for doing so.
“If you say so.” The housekeeper glanced between the two of them. “Very well, My Lady.” She turned and went along her way hesitantly.
Once she’d disappeared down the corridor, Sebastian crossed both arms in front of him and leaned casually against the wall.
