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Four

HefferwickshireHouseStables

20 DECEMBER, 1826~ EARLY THE NEXT MORNING

Hummingand carrying several apple slices, Althelia entered the stables the next morning, coming to an abrupt halt upon spying Sampson saddled and Mr. Lockington leading the docile-as-a-kitten gelding out the opposite door.

Wouldwonders never cease?

“Mr. Lockington?”

Attiredin her brother’s cast-off trousers, boots, cap, woolen jacket, and a distinctly feminine pink and lace shirt, she hurried forward, smiling at Tobie, the young stable hand, as he prepared Stardust for her daily ride. “Please give these to her.”

Shehanded the lad the apples and then pulled on her buff-colored leather riding gloves.

Uponhearing his name, Mr. Lockington half turned. He wore the same clothing as yesterday but had added a heavy coat and scarf, both of which appeared well used.

Washe short of funds or merely frugal? Or miserly?

Therewas a distinct difference between the latter two.

Hedidn’t seem pleased to see Althelia.

No, in fact, he looked decidedly perturbed.

Sheturned her mouth downward.

Whythe marked change in attitude since yesterday?

Itwould’ve been a gross exaggeration to call him charming or cordial in the stables last evening, but he hadn’t displayed barely concealed annoyance then.

Andthat begged the question, why did he find Althelia annoying?

She’dintroduced him to Sampson, the very horse he now led to the paddock to ride.

The ungrateful wretch.

Although, to be fair, he would likely have come upon the gelding at some point, as he said he enjoyed spending time with horseflesh. But he wouldn’t have known Sampson’s history, which seemed to have moved him.

Leonidaspoked his head inside the stables, his eyes twinkling with brotherly affection. “Ah, I thought I heard you, Ally-Cat.”

Sheglowered at him for using her detested nickname.

“We’d about given up on you, sleepyhead,” he continued, either oblivious to her displeasure or choosing to ignore her frown. “It’s not like you to be late for our morning jaunt.”

Thatwas because she’d tossed and turned all night, her slumber interrupted by disturbing dreams. More frustrating, she couldn’t recall the elusive nocturnal specters, only that they involved Mr. Lockington somehow.

“I’m here now. I shan’t be but a moment.” In a trice, using a mounting block, she climbed astride Stardust, then guided her toward the other riders.

Fletcher, Leonidas, and Papa waited as Mr. Lockington settled into the saddle with unexpected agility.

“You look well upon Sampson, Owen.” Seated upon his mount, Orion, Leonidas gave an approving nod. “One of the best matches I’ve seen between man and equestrian.”

Seeminglyunaccustomed to compliments, Mr. Lockington dipped his square chin.

Hemight be larger than the average man, but he possessed sleek, animal-like grace and strength.

What do those rippling muscles look like beneath his clothing?