Harris picked up the riding crop and headed back down the stairs.
Her maid appeared at her side. “Come, my lady. Let me help you to your bedchamber.”
Olivia nodded and let Emma lead her away from the grisly scene. It had been the most horrifying, numbing, and liberating moment of her life.
Oliva bolted upright in bed, kicking off the covers that were strangling her, and looked around with wild eyes. Her cheeks were wet with tears, and her heart was nearly beating out of her chest. Her breathing was ragged, hitching in and out.
Where was she?
It took her a moment to remember she was at Lord Fleming’s house party. Why had she dreamt of Armstrong? She hadn’t thought of the viscount’s last night in a very long time, and it was unsettling that she’d dreamed of that nightmare after enjoying such wonderful sensations kissing Everett.
Were the fates trying to warn her about trusting men?
She took some deep breaths, trying to calm down, repeatingI’m safeto herself over and over again. Armstrong was dead, so why was he still plaguing her dreams? Alive or dead, the man was a menace to her sanity.
She gave herself a mental shake. It was time to start believing in herself. Let go of all her self-doubt and fear over the failure of her marriage and begin to enjoy life again. Everett was the most honorable gentleman she’d ever met. He was kind and generous and not at all like the late viscount. She needed to concentrate on that.
When she got her breathing under control, she glanced at the window to see the first rays of the sun peeking over the hillside. There would be no more sleeping this morning, which was fine with her. She was to go out riding with the earl, and it couldn’t come fast enough. The sooner she could be in Everett’s company again, the better she’d feel. It was time to leave her late husband in the past, where he belonged, and think about her future. Something she’d been reluctant to do… that is, until now.
Today, she vowed, was a new beginning. Bett was right that she should start living and enjoying life again, and she knew just where to start.
Chapter 12
Robertson woke early, feeling betterthan he had in a long while. Bryer brought a cup of coffee for him while he dressed.
“I’ll have your bath ready when you return, my lord,” the valet said.
“Thank you, Bryer.”
The sun was shining, and the air was brisk as Robertson headed for the stables —a perfect day for a good gallop. He was looking forward to riding with Lady Armstrong today. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d looked forward to anything with this much enthusiasm. Probably never.
Olivia.
Such a beautiful name for a beautiful lady. He could hardly wait to see her and taste her sweet lips again. When he’d agreed to come to the house party, his only reason had been the desire to leave London before theMarquis of Evans announced his betrothal. But now, he wasn’t afraid to admit that he owed Miles a huge thank you for suggesting they attend. Otherwise, he’d never have met Olivia, which would have been a real shame. She was like a breath of fresh air, something he’d been starving for without even realizing it.
She’d been so receptive to his kisses last night, but a hint of sadness still seemed to cling to her. What could it be? Whatever it was, he vowed to make it his mission to see that sadness disappear from her beautiful green eyes. They said the eyes were the window to the soul, and he wanted to peer deeply into hers and understand her fully. She had such beautiful eyes—a combination of green and gold so unique, he’d never seen anything like them before.
“Lord Robertson, shall I saddle Hades for you today?” the groom asked when Robertson reached the stable.
“Yes. I’m expecting Lady Armstrong this morning. I don’t know how well she rides—do you have a mount available that’s gentler than Hades?”
“Of course, my lord. I’ll see to it right away.”
It wasn’t long before Olivia joined him.
“Good morning, Lady Armstrong.”
“Lord Robertson, lovely to see you this morning.”
The only thing Robertson wanted to do was take her in his arms and kiss her until they were both quivering with desire… but he couldn’t do it here at the stables. He planned to ride to a more secluded spot on the estate that would allow them a lot more privacy to indulge in their passion.
“I hope you’re well this morning?” he asked.
“I am, thank you.”
They both turned when they heard horses clop toward them. Hades was stamping his feet, knowing that he’d get to run again today. The beautiful bay mare beside him seemed a lot calmer.
“Here we are, my lord,” the groom said.
