The resemblance with Lord Montcrest was striking, the same blue eyes and blond hair, but his expression lacked Lord Montcrest’s confidence or harshness.
“Good morning,” she said.
Lord Montcrest stiffened a little. “Lady Euphemia, Lady Vaughan, this is my brother, Lord Rowan.”
The boy showed a bright smile. “Tristan told me how you saved Zeus, my lady. Thank you. I don’t ride him because he’s too big for me, but he’s my friend.”
“We both love Zeus.” He stared at his brother and for a second there was a fond understanding between them.
“It was my pleasure, Lord Rowan,” she said.
Rowan took a step closer. “May I ask you something?”
“Please go on.”
Rowan hesitated, twisting the hem of his jacket with nervous fingers.
“Perhaps you could tell me how you became so knowledgeable. I wish to study veterinary medicine, but I don’t know where to start.”
Lord Montcrest’s soft expression changed to surprise.
“Lord Rowan, I’ll be delighted to share my knowledge with you.”
When Rowan beamed, his resemblance with his brother increased. “Thank you, my lady.”
Jane cleared her throat discreetly. “We should return home.”
Effie stroked Zeus again. “I’ll be back again if you don’t mind, Montcrest, to see Lord Rowan and Zeus.”
He shifted his weight and took a breath before saying, “I don’t mind at all. Allow me to escort you to the high street.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing you again, Lady Effie.” Rowan showed his brilliant smile again, and two dimples appeared on his cheeks, like those of his brother.
The marquess walked them back to the high street in silence, and Effie paused before heading home.
“Are you honestly happy about Lord Rowan learning veterinary medicine?” she asked. “You didn’t seem to approve.”
“I do approve.” He clasped his hands behind his back. “Rowan is young and enthusiastic. I hope you meant it when you said you wanted to give him your time.”
“I did. I wouldn’t have said so otherwise.”
“I’m grateful. Ladies.” He gave a quick nod and waited for them as they stepped out into the street, then he turned and left.
She was confused. “I don’t understand. Did he think I was lying?”
Jane clicked her tongue. “The horse is a better gentleman than he is.”
