Bett shook her head. “No, thank you. Not this time. You two go ahead and enjoy your ride.”
“Well, I’m starving,” Lord Robertson said. “Lady Armstrong, may I prepare a plate for you as well?”
“That would be most welcome. Thank you, my lord.”
Mr. Hughes stood up as well, and Olivia watched the two men talk as they went to the refreshment table.
Bett looked at her. “What’s wrong?”
Olivia shook her head. “There’s nothing amiss. Why do you ask?”
“Because I know you, and you wear your emotions on your sleeve. Did Lord Robertson offend you in some way?”
“No, he’s been the perfect gentleman. It was me. I had a bad reaction when he tried to touch me.”
“Oh, Liv. I’m so sorry. Perhaps you should tell him it wasn’t because you dislike him but that your late husband’s ill-treatment still affects you.”
“I was about to do just that when Lord Pressley and Miss Bartlett interrupted us. Then the moment passed, and I don’t know how to bring it up again.”
“Was he trying to kiss you?”
“Yes. I would most certainly welcome his kiss, but I think I’ve ruined everything.”
Bett patted her hand. “I don’t think that’s the case. Lord Robertson seems quite enamored with you.”
“Do you think so?”
“I do.”
Olivia thought about what Bett had said. Maybe she hadn’t ruined everything with Lord Robertson. However, she’d have to wait for him to try to kiss her again because she didn’t think she could be bold enough to kiss him first. Would he even welcome a kiss from her, or would he think she was a wanton?
It was certainly something to think about.
Chapter 9
“How was your walk withLady Armstrong?” Noah asked as they made their way to the food table.
“Not nearly long enough,” Robertson said.
“Oh? What happened?”
“It’s what didn’t happen that concerns me.”
“That’s quite cryptic. Care to elaborate?”
“Not at the moment. I need to figure something out first.”
“I’m glad Miles suggested coming to the house party. I’m enjoying my time with Lady Williams.”
“I see. Are you developing atendrefor the lady? You seem quite enamored with her.”
“I’m not sure I’d say that, but I am enjoying her company immensely. She’s quite an interesting lady with her clever wit.”
“Well, then, I wish you luck in your endeavors. By the way, have you seen Miles? I haven’t seen him since the archery contest.”
Both Robertson and Noah looked around the picnic area while they filled plates for the ladies.
“Oh, there he is, talking with Fleming. Those two seem to have a budding friendship,” Noah said.
