Page 44 of Forbidden: Claude

Had their coupling meant nothing to him? He told her he was falling in love with her, but he certainly didn’t act like it this morning.

“Evelina?” Felix knocked and then stuck his head in through the partially open door.

“Felix, I am ready,” she told him. “Let’s hurry to help Rose.”

“I’m afraid we can’t leave yet,” he told her.

“Can’t leave? Why not? Rose is in trouble.”

“I understand. But unfortunately, the horse we are using has thrown a shoe.”

“Well, get a blacksmith, quickly.”

“The blacksmith is in town, so we’ll have to walk with the horse until we get there.”

“Walk?” She looked down to her velvet gown and soft slippers. “Then I will have to change into my other clothes.” She looked through the travel bag but couldn’t find them. “Where are they?”

“Perhaps they are in the travel bag I saw Lord Claude take with him.”

“Well, then I will have to wear my good clothes, but I am afraid they will get ruined.”

“You look very pretty today,” said Felix. “Isn’t that the gown of a lady?”

“Aye, it is,” she told him. “I am wearing it because I am a lady, pretending to be a handmaid.”

“You are?” Felix’s eyes opened wide in surprise.

“My name is Lady Evelina du Pont from France. My father is a count.”

“By the rood,” said Felix, holding on to the doorframe for support. “Does Sir Claude know this?”

“I tried to tell him, but I don’t think he understood. Or at least, he didn’t believe me.”

“Why are you pretending to be a handmaid?” he asked.

“I will tell you all about it on the long walk to town.” She picked up the travel bag and slung it over her shoulder.

“Nay, let me carry that, my lady,” said Felix, taking the bag from her. She smiled. Felix accepted the news easily. Now, if only Claude would feel the same way, it would help. However, somehow, she thought he would have an entirely different reaction.