It was difficult to concentrate on teaching, but Cait managed to do so, even though memories of being in the closet with Julian often surfaced and she was certain that a blush often heated her face. Then she grew concerned that Norbright may not take Claudia’s advice and would report her to Mrs. Wiggons. When that did not happen by the end of the day, she began to relax. However, she still needed to speak with the headmistress.
“May I have a word, Mrs. Wiggons.” She had paused at the entrance to the office.
“Of course. Come in.”
Cait did so and told Mrs. Wiggons what had been overheard, what had happened when she’d gone to review the books hidden away, omitting Julian’s involvement, and then her plan.
At first, Mrs. Wiggons stared at her, and then laughed.
“It might just work to put it all back on Eliza. It would teach them all a lesson.”
“That is what I hoped.”
“I have no objection to you leaving the school in the evening especially when the end result might bring us peace.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Wiggons.”
“The girls might notice,” the headmistress warned.
“My sister has not yet left Harrington Manor. She shall be my excuse.”
Following dinner, Cait waited until the students had gone to their chambers and then made her way to the neighboring estate. Anticipation and nervousness accompanied her. She could not wait to see Julian again, which was foolish. Yes, they had kissed and embraced in a closet, but that did not mean anything could come of their relationship. They barely knew each other and yesterday had been an emotional one for them both. Under ordinary circumstances, would they have allowed such intimacy? Would they have even wanted it?
What should she do or say when she saw him again?
Did she pretend as if it hadn’t happened?
Yes, that is what she should do.
He was only at Harrington Manor because the doctor wouldn’t let him leave. As soon as he was able, Julian would be gone. She might not see him until he decided to visit Lord Norbright again.
This was also a reminder that she must guard her heart.
“Cait, I am so glad you are here,” Claudia exclaimed once she was shown into the parlor. “Ashf…Rivers...” She glanced away from Julian with embarrassment.
“Do not concern yourself,” he said. “I am not certain I would respond to Rivers and would look for my brother. It is something that will take time.”
Julian was seated in an overstuffed chair with one leg straight and resting on an ottoman. Was his injury worse than she realized?
“Please, have a seat, Miss Doyle.” He gestured to the chair beside him. “And please forgive me for not standing at your entrance. Apparently, I am not allowed to do so.” He glared at everyone in the parlor except her.
“How bad is your knee?” she asked after she sat.
“It is swollen twice the size of the other,” Norbright announced before Julian could answer. “How did you know it was injured?”
“She was there when I slipped coming up those blasted stones you call steps.”
“The two of you spent a good deal of time together yesterday, alone.” Kilsyth, her new brother-in-law observed as he crossed his arms over his chest.
“Eve…” Cait warned.
“That is because Cait was holding his secret and offering comfort so as not to ruin our wedding day,” Eve reminded her husband.
“Comfort? When one offers comfort to a Devil, she could find herself ruined. Devils do have a reputation for debauchery.”
Oh, dear! Had Norbright told Kilsyth about last night and that he found them kissing?
The friends of Norbright, the Devils of Dalston who remained at Harrington Manor, suddenly stiffened and tension filled the air as they looked from Kilsyth to Julian and back.
