“I have spent rather a lot of time here, and know the route well. After all, my sister is Duchess Emberly.” Miss Pembleton gestured around them as though emphasising her point. “I would wager I know it better than either of you.”
“That is besides the point.” Luke made a dismissive gesture. “Your riding equipment is simply not suited for this kind of thing.”
“Well, I did not want to completely scandalise you by riding astride. I know how much you care for propriety.” Miss Pembleton retorted, and Luke could not tell if she was serious or joking.
It would not surprise me if she had devised some way to do so. Luke shook his head, deciding against opening that particular can of warms. “Scandal or no, this is entirely too dangerous for you to consider.”
“In your opinion.” Miss Pembleton insisted. “I am quite sure my sister Rose has joined Duke Emberly on occasion.”
Luke gestured to the small gathering of women who were talking amongst themselves. “Yes, she, like the rest of the women, is not joining the men on this hunt. And I daresay her familiarity with the estate is greater than your own.”
“Perhaps she simply does not feel like joining today.” Miss Pembleton’s cheeks flushed.
“Or she knows it is foolish and dangerous, and wishes to stay where she will be safe. Look at the weather for goodness’ sake. It is dangerous enough without adding you into the mix.” Luke forced his voice to remain calm and civil, gritting his teeth wit the effort.
“I will be perfectly safe on the hunt.” Miss Pembleton glanced around them. “Besides, the weather is clearing up.”
Luke snorted. “You have no way of knowing that, and none of us will have the time to look after you.”
“I do not need looking after. I am not some hapless child.” Miss Pembleton shot him a glare.
“Indeed not. You are a woman.” Luke retorted, his irritation getting the better of him.How can she be this stubborn? Surely, she can see that it would be best for her to remain behind?
“I am perfectly aware of that fact, thank you very much, Your Grace. I do not need reminding of it.” Miss Pembleton’s tone was icy.
“Clearly you do or we would not be having this conversation.” Luke growled.
“Is that what you call this?” Miss Pembleton raised an eyebrow at him.
“Perhaps we should ask Duke Emberly what he thinks, after all, I cannot imagine he would wish to put his sister-in-law in danger.” Luke gestured to the Duke who was with the rest of the hunters, instructing the various grooms and inspecting the dogs.Perhaps he will be able to talk some sense into her.
Miss Pembleton’s response dashed any hopes he had had.
“I am sure he will agree to my accompanying the hunt.” Miss Pembleton’s eyes blazed with fire that said she would brook no argument to the contrary. “After all, he has done so before.”
“Brother, what about this? I shall accompany Miss Pembleton on the trail. I shall keep pace with her, and ensure no harm befalls her.” Rodger offered and gave Miss Pembleton a shy smile. “It will give us a chance to spend some more time together.”
Miss Pembleton beamed at him. Luke wrestled the flash of frustration and irritation that swelled within his chest. He looked at his brother and then again at Miss Pembleton.
“You will need to keep up with us, it would not be appropriate for you two to be alone and unchaperoned.” Luke pointed out.
“But we would not need to be in the thick of things.” Rodger shrugged. “It seems like a sensible compromise. Miss Pembletonwill not be in any great danger, but will get to experience a little bit more of the hunt than if she remained with the rest of the women.”
“Exactly, thank you Lord Baine!” Miss Pembleton’s enthusiasm was palpable.
“On your own head be it.” Feeling like he was making a terrible mistake, Luke nodded to his brother. “Fine. I think this is highly irresponsible and dangerous. But you are a gentleman Rodger and I trust that you will uphold your word. Miss Pembleton and her safety are your responsibility.”
Before Luke could say anything else, the horn sounded signalling the start of the hunt. Dogs barked and everyone launched into action. He flashed his brother a last, meaningful look, and joined the rest of the hunt.
Miss Pembleton was not his responsibility. If she wanted to risk life and limb on some foolish notion, then why should he stop her? Besides, he knew Rodger. He would keep her away from danger. Of course he would.
Besides, they might not even find any game. Never in his life had he hoped more for an unsuccessful and uneventful hunt.
Chapter Eleven
Emily’s satisfaction at being allowed to join the hunt was short lived. Any hopes she had harboured of Lord Baine and her being close to the action was dashed by the pace he set.
Still, I suppose it will give us a little more time to get to know one another.Emily glanced at the man riding beside her. “Lord Baine, while I appreciate your caution, I would hate for you to miss the excitement of the hunt on my account. I am sure we can ride a little harder and get a little closer to the excitement.”
