“You seem to be lost in thought, Mrs. St. Maur. What if we go for that drive? My carriage is outside. See the spirited set of four? They can carry us away. It’s such a lovely day.”
This wasn’t what I wanted or who I wanted.
Mr. Willingham wasn’t for me. As sweetly as I could, I moved from him and fluttered to the fireplace. “I’m not up for a drive.”
“I suppose I should’ve asked in advance. A lady like you certainly appreciates planning.”
“I do like plans.”
He followed me like a bee, staying close like my jasmine-yellow skirts were petals.
“You are beautiful, like a gentle—”
“Flower.”
“Yes . . . My gentle flower.”
That sounded sweet, but it made me feel delicate and easily crushed. I wasn’t that, at least I hoped that wasn’t me anymore.
“Maybe I’m not being direct enough in my admiration.”
Mr. Willingham picked up my hand and puts his lips to my wrist. His grip was strong. It would be a fight to wrench away.
I didn’t like his forwardness or the feeling that he would take advantage.
No raising my voice or anything to anger the big man. I coughed something awful and throaty.
Taking a handkerchief from his pocket, he released me and offered me the monogrammed cloth. “Do you need water, Mrs. St. Maur? Let me get you some.”
Patting my mouth, I smelled salt of the sea, even a tinge of fish in his handkerchief. Willingham must spend a great deal of time at the docks.
Coughing, I waved and nodded. “Yes, please.”
The fellow went to the table and rushed back with a goblet of water. “Here, Mrs. St. Maur.”
Mr. Willingham was looking at me as if he’d done something wrong, but at this moment, he didn’t crowd me.
Perhaps he wasn’t so terrible.
Then he advanced and hung his head over mine. Again, I felt his breath on my brow. Hovering. Biscuity and a tinge tart.
“I’ve been invited to Lady Shrewsbury’s ball next month.”
Another cough crossed my lips. I took two steps from Willingham. “Yes, it should be a great event. I hear she holds it once a year to honor widows.” I wouldn’t mention the dinner outing that preceded it. He was not to be my partner.
“Perhaps we could go together or be seated together. I want you to have my special attention.”
Light blue eyes twinkled as if the admission should make me swoon.
It didn’t.
It kept me pining for the grandfather clock to chime, for this visit to be done.
“You need more tea, sir, to go with another biscuit. I should send for some.”
He grabbed my hand. “No. Don’t go. There’s much to say.”
Was there? Where was the duke? Half an hour should have passed by now. He promised to interrupt in Patience’s stead to keep any prospects from gaining ideas. Willingham had my hand and ideas.
