Lydia remained where she was, trying and failing to make sense of what had just taken place. She searched her feelings, seeking signs of regret or hints of trepidation, but found neither. The only reaction to this insanity was the persistent flutter in her stomach, a slight touch of dizziness, and a giggle rising up in her throat.Let it be him. Please, let it be him.She pushed away from the wall, smoothed her skirts, and went back inside.
Lifting her chin, she kept her gaze to the front and made her way through the crowd, hoping,praying, Lord Walston would not see her. Unfortunately, before she’d even crossed the floor, his voice meandered into her ear. “Miss Page, there you are!”
Lydia slowed her step, muttered a soft curse under her breath, and turned to face him. “My lord.”
“I’ve been looking everywhere for you, my dear.” Smiling, Walston stepped to her side and lifted her hand to his lips. “Where did you go?’
“Outside,” she replied, gently pulling her hand free from his. “I needed some air.”
“Ah, I see.” He glanced about. “Yes, it is rather stuffy in here.”
“Actually, my lord, I was feeling unwell.” Not exactly a lie. “I fear I am still not quite myself and regret I must take my leave of you.”
“You’re leaving?” Disappointment showed plainly in his face, but Lydia had the impression it was less than sincere.
“I’m afraid I must, my lord.” Lydia inclined her head. “If you’ll excuse me.”
“Wait, Miss Page, please.” He placed a hand on her arm. “May I ask how you’re getting home? I’d be happy to escort you, of course.”
“Oh, thank you, my lord, but no.” She moved her arm, forcing him to lift his hand. “I have a carriage waiting.”
The man’s eyebrows lifted. “Whose carriage? Lord Eskdale’s?
“Um, it’s…” Lydia faltered.
“Yes, it’s mine,” a male voice said, and Lydia turned to see Edward approaching. “Are you ready, Miss Page?”
Lydia barely managed to hide her confusion. “Yes. Yes, I am, my lord. Thank you.”
“Let me save you the trouble, Eskdale,” Lord Walston said. “Miss Page will be quite safe with me.”
Edward shook his head. “Sorry, Walston. I’m responsible for the young lady’s well-being.” He gave her a surreptitious wink and presented his arm. “And it’s no trouble at all. Come, my dear. I’ll see you safely aboard.”
“It’s him, isn’t it, my lord?” Lydia asked, as Edward steered her out into the hallway. “My prince. It has to be. How else can you explain your awareness of this mad escapade?”
“What mad escapade is that, Miss Page?”
“The one where I’ve agreed to take a moonlit carriage ride to the home of a complete stranger.”
“Ah.Thatmad escapade.” Edward chuckled. “Yes, I must confess to being aware of it. My orders were to ensure you are not led astray on your way out.”
Lydia gasped. “So, it’s actually him?”
“Him?”
“You know who I mean, my lord!”
“He will make the introductions.”
“But you do vouch for him?”
He gave her a stern glance. “Without hesitation, Miss Page. I would not let you anywherenearthat carriage if I thought you were at risk. Mind you, I should still reprimand you for agreeing to thismad escapade. You should know better.” He chuckled. “You’ll be quite safe, however.”
“I certainly hope so,” Lydia murmured, as they stepped into the grand foyer. The footman opened the door as they approached and Edward glanced over his shoulder, apparently making sure they hadn’t been followed.
“Mission accomplished,” he said. “Your carriage awaits, Miss Page. Oh and, by the way, Lady Eskdale expects a full report by tomorrow afternoon.”
Lydia laughed and shook her head. “This is madness, my lord.”
