In the next moment, a strong hand grabbed her arm and yanked her out of harm’s way, causing her to stumble and fall into the firm embrace of Lord Hilgrove.
Miles held Edwina tight against his chest, her small frame trembling in his embrace. The thundering sound of the horse’s hooves faded away. When he had seen the horse barreling down on her, he had felt a fear unlike any he had ever known.
He gazed down at Edwina, taking in the panic and shock etched on her delicate features. He couldn’t quite believe how close she had come to serious injury or even death.
Bennett’s voice cut through the tense air. “You can release my cousin now,” he said firmly, stepping closer to them.
Reluctantly, Miles loosened his grip but remained close enough to feel Edwina’s quick breaths against his skin. He searched her eyes for any sign of harm. “Are you all right?” he inquired.
A mixture of emotions flickered across her face before she finally answered with a shaky voice. “Yes… no,” she admitted.
“You will be just fine,” he encouraged, not knowing what else he could say to provide her with comfort.
Lady Dallington placed her hand on Edwina’s arm and gently turned her to face her. The concern was evident on her face as she seemingly searched Edwina’s eyes for answers. “You had me so worried,” she exclaimed. “What were you thinking, freezing up like that in the middle of the street?”
Edwina’s gaze dropped to the ground. “I wasn’t,” she murmured.
Without hesitation, Lady Dallington pulled Edwina into a tight embrace, relief flooding over her features. “Thank heavens for Lord Hilgrove,” she declared. “If he hadn’t come to your rescue when he did…” Her voice trailed off. “I don’t even want to think about what could have happened.”
As Lady Dallington embraced her niece, Miles couldn’t help but notice the growing crowd around them as people stopped to gawk and whisper. He knew they needed to move quickly before the situation became even more bothersome.
Fortunately, Bennett must have had the same thoughtabout their circumstances because he suggested, “Perhaps we should depart for the manor.”
Lady Dallington released Edwina as she attempted to regain her composure. “You are right,” she said. “We should return home at once.”
A finely dressed gentleman broke through the crowd, his brow furrowed. “Is everyone all right?” he asked.
“We are,” Lady Dallington confirmed.
The man relaxed slightly. “I don’t know what spooked my horse, but I am terribly sorry for the distress that it caused.”
Bennett’s eyes narrowed as he took a commanding step towards the man. “You need to learn to control your horse better. The consequences could have been dire if not for my friend, Lord Hilgrove.”
The man nodded, guilt and remorse evident on his expression. “Yes, my lord,” he said, lowering his gaze. “It won’t happen again.”
“It better not,” Bennett snapped.
Miles knew that emotions were running high, but it was just an unfortunate accident. He stepped forward and placed a calming hand on Bennett’s shoulder. “Let us go collect our horses,” he suggested.
Bennett took a few deep breaths, no doubt in an attempt to compose himself before speaking again. “Very well,” he growled.
Lady Dallington guided Edwina towards the coach and Bennett, ever the gentleman, hastened to open the door for them. Miles stood back slightly, not quite sure what he should do.
Edwina paused in front of the coach and turned around to face Miles. She spoke, her voice barely above a whisper but filled with genuine gratitude. “Thank you,” she said, her gaze speaking volumes.
A fluttering feeling stirred in Miles’ chest as he held her gaze and he couldn’t help but feel drawn to Edwina. Whichwas rather odd, considering his heart had been irrevocably broken after his wife had died. No, it was impossible. Surely, he must have imagined it. It was nerves; that is all that it was.
The ladies stepped gracefully into the coach and Miles stood on the pavement, watching it drive away. Bennett came to stand next to him, breaking the silence.
“Have I thanked you yet?” Bennett asked.
“There is no need…” Miles started to say.
Bennett turned to face him. “There is,” he insisted, speaking over him. “If you hadn’t saved Edwina when you did…” His voice cracked and he struggled to hold back his emotions. “I’m sorry. I just shudder at that thought.”
“Well, it is over now,” Miles reassured him. “Lady Edwina is safe and that is what matters.”
“Yes, because of you.”
