He had a sister. It made him more… human, somehow.
“And your sister, is she older? Younger?”
“Younger. And she’s a troublesome little piece of baggage.” Even so, he spoke the words affectionately. “I’m sure the two of you would get along swimmingly.”
Of which, for a moment, sounded rather lovely. Aubrey’s marriage had kept her from making any close female friends.
“If dear old Harry made a real marriage with you, why is it that you blush so easily? One would imagine you’d reached your ripe old age without ever being kissed.”
“Oh, but I haven’t,” she answered. “Been kissed, that is.” Which was a little embarrassing, she supposed, and so she focused her attention on cutting a piece of cooked carrot in half.
But Mr. Bateman made a choking sound. “You’re joking.”
Why would she joke about something like that? The entire matter was highly inappropriate to be discussing with him but along the way they’d seemed to have passed the point of doing that which was appropriate for their level of acquaintance.
“I don’t really joke, Mr. Bateman.”
Ah, that laughter again. Someday, she’d like to strangle him for it.
“You only smash fruit pies into the faces of those who get the best of you?”
“That was not a joke, that was a punishment.”
His laughter floated softly in the room. “Touché.”
Aubrey lifted her fork to her mouth and examined the small piece of meat pierced by the tongs. “I wonder if this is beef or something else.”
“Six and twenty, widowed and never been kissed! I will definitely have to rectify such a sad state of affairs then.”
“No, Mr. Bateman.” Although it was tempting.
Too tempting.
“No?” Laughter still danced in his eyes. “Come now, Mrs. Bloomington, admit that you’ve wanted me to kiss you since you watched me from your window.”
Oh, but this was all too embarrassing for words.
“No! I mean well, perhaps. But you mustn’t say such things. You mustn’t even joke about it.”
“You would deny us both?” His voice cajoled.
“If you kissed me, then, I could not allow you to escort me the remainder of the way to London. It would not be proper… I mean, I know that already, our dealings are likely frowned upon, despite the fact that I am a widow and all, … but… I would judge myself…”
And for once he did not laugh at her. “And you are not unhappy at the prospect of traveling with me?”
“Oh, no.” She bit her lip. “I’m quite happy to make certain you arrive at your destination in time for your party. And I appreciate the added safety of your presence.” Although she had been worried about him before. “And… for all that, I rather like your company.”
She hated that she blushed so easily.
“I rather like your company, too, Mrs. Bloomington.” His concession was more satisfying to her than it ought to be. “SoYou’re safe from my kiss, but only for tonight.” He mumbled into his napkin.
“Pardon?”
“You’d best get your rest, we’ll depart at first light.”
He really was a lovely man. Aubrey smiled, happy to have addressed some of his more disturbing suggestions.
Yes. Mr. Bateman was a gentleman she needn’t worry about. And she’d assured herself of his protection on the road as well. Aubrey smiled sweetly and rose from the table. She need not even ask, as he too rose, and escorted her to the door of her chamber. She retrieved the key from her reticule and turned back to thank him.
