Page 66 of Wagering for Miss Blake (Lords and Ladies in Love 4)

“Blast it, man, stop sneaking up on me.”

“As you say.” The unflappable valet walked around the chair, his demeanor nothing but decorum. “What can I do for you, sir?”

“Why are you hovering about? Where are the footmen?”

“The last I saw them, sir, they were huddled in the kitchen afraid to wander past you, lest they be sacked.”

Why was it the man could say something innocuous and still sound as though he were making fun of him? He should probably turn him out with no references, but the thought of life without his valet’s peculiar sense of humor was not appealing. Especially since Macon had been with him almost since he left off short pants.

“Never mind. I wish to go for a ride.”

“Excellent idea, sir. Shall I brush off your unused riding clothes, or do you prefer to remain in the striking, rather odorous outfit you’ve worn for three days now?”

“I will change my clothes.”

“Excellent.”

“And have a bath.”

“Excellent.”

“But first I would like food.”

“Excellent.”

When Macon continued to stand and stare at him, Giles said, “Now.”

“Excellent.” He bowed and left the room, and for some inexplicable reason, Giles felt his spirits lift. Yes, he would eat some decent food for a change, which would make Cook happy, then he would take a bath and dress in fresh clothes, which would make his valet happy, and then ride Gallant, which would make his groom happy.

He lived to make his servants happy.

After a meal of ham, eggs, herring, warm rolls, fruit, and plenty of coffee, he soaked for a while in a hot bath, then dressed for the ride.

He’d forgotten how much he loved riding the grounds of his estate. The wind blowing through his hair, putting a flush on his cheeks, was just what he needed. He’d spent many a summer here as a lad, with his grandparents. They’d always told him it would be his when he reached his majority.

He loved Tanglewood, as his estate was known. He planned to one day bring a bride here and start a family. Those plans had seemed far into the future, until he’d met Suzanna.

And then lost her.

With a kick of his heels to Gallant’s sides, he sped across the ground and returned to the house. “Macon!” His shout reverberated throughout the bottom floor.

Once again, the man popped up alongside him. “Sir?”

“Stop doing that!”

Macon bowed. “How may I be of service, sir?

“Join me in the library.” Giles strode down the corridor and marched across the library floor, bypassing the brandy. With no Cam, Hawk, or Bedford to help him sort this all out, his dedicated valet was the best choice.

Macon followed behind and stopped about five feet away.

“I think I may have made a terrible mistake.”

“You, sir? Surely you jest.”

Giles clasped his hands behind his back and paced. “I have been searching the newspaper daily for a betrothal announcement for Miss Blake.”

“Ah, that explains your recent obsession over the daily news.”