“Because we haven’t been properly introduced yet.”
He grinned, finding the irony in her statement. “If you would prefer, I could always help you,” he said.
“How would you do that?” she asked, looking unsure.
Charles put his finger up to his lips when he noticed a couple was approaching him on the footpath. He leaned his shoulder against the trunk of the tree and tipped his head at the gentleman to acknowledge him. It wasn’t long before the couple was out of earshot.
He straightened and looked back up at the young woman. “I am familiar with these grounds and can help you get to the front of the townhouse without anyone seeing you,” he informed her.
“How would you accomplish that feat?”
“There is a path the servants use that leads from the gardens to the street,” he shared. “It isn’t far from where we are now.”
“That would be wonderful,” she replied eagerly.
“You just have to get out of the tree now and I can show you.”
The young woman reared back. “I’m afraid I can’t do that.”
“Why not?”
“You will see the stain on my dress.”
Charles chuckled. “That is your main concern at the moment?”
He could see indecision on her face, and he feared that she would reject his assistance. If that was the case, he could always go retrieve his mother to offer aid.
Finally, after a long moment, she spoke. “I suppose I would be grateful for your assistance, but you must promise not to watch me as I climb down the tree.”
“Would it help if I turned around?”
She nodded. “It would.”
Charles turned around and heard the young woman climbing down the tree. He found her stubbornness quite humorous.
“You may turn around now,” she said.
He did so and offered his arm. “Would you like me to escort you to the path?”
The young woman glanced down at his proffered arm. “I think not.”
“No?”
“What if someone saw us?” she asked.
Charles smiled, finding this whole situation quite amusing. “It might be best if you just follow me, then.” He stepped further into the trees that ran the length of the garden and was pleased to hear the young woman following him. Once he arrived at the gate, he turned to face her. “This path will take you to the street.”
“Where my coach will no doubt be waiting,” she remarked, relief in her voice. “Then, I shall have a footman send word to my mother.”
“Would you care for me to accompany you?”
“No, thank you.”
Charles took a step closer to her. “Would you tell me your name, since I offered you assistance?”
“That wouldn’t be very appropriate.”
“That may be true, but we did meet under unusual circumstances,” he pressed.
