“As it should be.”
“Thank you for understanding, Everett. It means everything to me.”
“My pleasure, my lady. Are you ready to head back? I, for one, am starving. Nothing like a good gallop early in the morning to stimulate the appetite,” he said with a chuckle.
Olivia smiled, and her stomach chose that moment to growl loudly. “I think that’s an excellent suggestion.” She was relieved that Everett had understood the horror she had suffered and that he had not asked her for any details beyond what she was willing to give.
They walked over to the horses. “I’m going to put my hands on your waist to help you into the saddle. May I have your permission?” Robertson asked.
She nodded and instantly felt the heat where his hands touched her through the fabric of her riding habit. It was a heady feeling, and she realized that she did crave a man’s touch after all.
Everett’s touch.
Now it was just a matter of the right time and the right place for her to explore that idea more thoroughly. Surprisingly, the thought of being close to him did not frighten her as much.
They raced back to the barn, and the groom came out to take the horses while Everett lifted Olivia off Clara.
“A good rub-down and lots of oats for these two,” he said. “They did well today.”
“Yes, my lord,” the groom said, leading the horses into the barn.
Everett held out his arm. “Shall we, my lady?”
“Absolutely,” Olivia said, slipping her hand into the crook of his elbow.
There was no more talking as Robertson walked with her into the foyer. It was still early, and none of the other guests had come downstairs for breakfast as of yet. “Lady Armstrong, I hope to see you later in the dining room.”
“Indeed. Thank you for a lovely ride this morning. Perhaps…” Could she be brave and suggest another outing with the handsome earl?
“Perhaps?”
“Yes, well, I would very much like to go riding again tomorrow. That is, of course, if you’d like that.”
Robertson nodded. “I would like that very much,” he said, bringing her hand to his lips for a light kiss. Olivia was a special lady indeed, and he felt a tiny crack open in his icy heart.
“I’ll see you later,” Olivia said with a brilliant smile before walking up the staircase. When she reached her bedchamber, Emma was waiting for her.
“My lady, how was your ride?”
“It was quite exhilarating.”
“Your bath is nearly ready. I brought you a pot of tea if you’d like a cup while I finish up.”
“Thank you, Emma. I’d definitely like a cup of tea.”
Olivia poured herself a cup and sat in the chair by the fireplace. There was a lot to think about. She needed to let go of her doubt that was she a desirable woman. Everett evidently thought she was, based on hisactions down by the river. His touch had ignited something in her that frightened her for an entirely different reason. She’d felt desire for the first time in her life, and once again, she’d panicked. How long would Everett continue to pursue her if she didn’t show him that she very much wanted to be in his company?
She didn’t know what activities were planned for today, but she’d take every opportunity to show Everett that she did desire his company. With her mind made up, she put her cup down and began to undress.
“My lady, let me help you with that,” Emma said. “Are you well? You have such a frown on your face.”
Olivia smoothed her expression. “I’m well—merely thinking about something I need to do. Thank you for asking.”
“Of course. You must know by now I only want the best for you.”
“You’re very kind, and I appreciate your loyal service. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
Emma smiled and helped her out of her riding habit.
