“That is most thoughtful, but I have already selected a tree,” Arabella lied.
“Did you now?” Colin asked.
She nodded. “It is a glorious tree, and I intend to go mark it so a servant can cut it down.”
“I would be more than happy to accompany you,” Colin offered.
“That won’t be necessary—” Arabella started.
Her grandmother spoke over her. “That would be marvelous.”
“Then it is decided,” Colin declared, gesturing towards the door with his arm. “Shall we go mark the tree you picked out?”
“Now?”
Colin smiled. “If you are not previously engaged?”
“I’m afraid I have a terrible headache,” Arabella said, bringing her hand back up to her forehead. “I would prefer to lie down for a while.”
“Of course,” Colin responded. “Perhaps I could call upon you this afternoon, after you are properly rested.”
“I’m afraid my headache could go well into the night, my lord.”
Amusement flickered in Colin’s eyes. “I understand, but I do feel as if you shall make a quick recovery.”
“Why is that?”
Colin smirked. “I can’t help but wonder if your headache was brought on by my presence.”
“You wouldn’t be wrong,” she muttered.
Her grandmother frowned. “Arabella,” she chided in a low voice. “Do remember to mind your manners around our guest.”
Colin put his hand up. “I do not take offense, especially since I am deserving of Lady Arabella’s ire,” he said, “but I do hope we can set our differences aside for the sake of the orphans.”
“Our differences?” Arabella asked. “Are you referring to how you broke our engagement, thus damaging my reputation in the process?”
He shifted in his stance, having the decency of looking ashamed. “I am.”
“Then, my lord,” she said dryly, “I can assure you that our differences are indeed too vast to ever hope for a reconciliation.”
“I disagree,” he replied.
“Regardless, it would be best if we avoided one another while I am staying with my grandmother.”
“That would be wise, but what about cutting down the tree for the orphans?” Colin asked. “You wouldn’t wish to deny them the simple joy of decorating the tree?”
Arabella pursed her lips together, knowing precisely what he was about. “I have no doubt that you are up to the task.”
“Perhaps, but didn’t you already select the perfect tree?” he pressed.
Drat. He was using her own words against her, and she had no doubt that he knew she was lying.
“I suppose I can show you where the tree is located.”
Colin smiled at her, threatening her resolve to remain angry at him. “Then I shall call upon you later this afternoon.”
“It might be best if we waited until tomorrow.”
