“It’s one way to keep the money in the family,” Jem said.
“Imagine the inbreeding,”
“That’s probably why some of them aren’t overly bright.” Jem gave a dark chuckle. “Seriously, I have no idea how some of these guys would survive without their servants. They certainly aren’t marrying for brains, that’s for sure.”
“Well,” Cyrus said, moving the food around his plate, “I know some people who didn’t exactly marry for IQ either.”
“I guess. Still, it will be a relief to get back home again.”
“Kaitlyn tells me you’re thinking of going on the road again,” Cyrus said, “when we return to our time.”
“The director I worked with has requested me for her new show,” Jem said. “She’s going places, and that she asked for me will boost my resume, to say nothing of the experience. It’s a great opportunity for me.”
“How long will you be gone this time?”
“It always depends on how well the show is doing. It’ll be for at least a year, but it could go much longer.”
“Kaitlyn said she really misses you when you’re on the road.”
“And my mom misses mothering me.” Jem laughed. “It was great seeing everyone again, but being home reminded me of why I like to be on the road.”
***
Reese stood just outside the breakfast room door, her arms clutching her abdomen and the ache that threatened to spill out. She took a quiet step back, then another and another. When she was far enough away that no one should be able to hear her footsteps, she turned and ran to the stairs. Pausing there, she didn’t know what to do.
She wanted to run, to be gone. Jem was going to ditch her again. His words rang through her mind.
“Being home reminded me of why I like to be on the road.”
Reese sucked in her breath, blinking furiously. She had done it again, played right into his hands. Her mother’s words echoed in her mind.
I told you so.
Reese wanted to talk with someone about this. It would have been Kaitlyn if the guy hadn’t been Jem. Cora might provide a sympathetic ear, but they’d been more workout and riding buddies than share-your-deepest-secrets friends. Reese felt so alone.
She needed to put distance between herself and Jem, to give her time to pull her thoughts together. All she knew was that this hurt a hundred times—athousandtimes—worse than it had two years ago. She had allowed herself to hope, and now she was paying the price.
Without further thought, she climbed the stairs back to her bedroom and caught her maid as she was leaving.
“Lulu,” Reese said, proud that she was able to get the words out when her voice wanted to crack. “Lady Ellen has invited me to return with her to Kellworth after the picnic. Can you please pack enough clothing to last several days? I have no idea how long I’ll be gone.”
“Are you well, miss?” the maid asked, concerned. “You look pale.”
“Nothing that a bit of fresh air won’t fix.” Reese turned and strode toward the stairs.
***
“I see Kaitlyn is still captivated by Jack.” Jem set down his napkin.
Cyrus let out a deep, disgusted breath. “I don’t get it.”
“I don’t either,” Jem said. “Just when I think I understand my sister, she does something I never saw coming. I wish I could help.”
“So do I.” Cyrus gave a dark chuckle and said softly. “We’re surrounded by faeries and magic. Why can’t one of them bemyfaerie godmother?”
“And dress you for the ball?” Jem smirked, hoping to lift his friend’s mood.
“I need someone to show your sister how good we’d be together.” Cyrus tossed his napkin on his plate. “Enough about me. What about you and Reese? Aren’t you pleased with how many times Ihaven’tgone riding with you two in the morning?”
