“Do not fret,” he responded. “We shall try for another day.”
“I hope so.”
They rode in silence as they traveled the short distance back to the manor. Arabella was deep in thought, and Colin didn’t dare try to interrupt her reverie.
They arrived in the courtyard and Colin exited the carriage, then turned and assisted Arabella out.
Arabella remained rooted in place as she stared up at the manor, and a line between her brows appeared.
“Whatever is the matter?”
“I hate confrontations,” she admitted. “I find them to be uncomfortable and quite awkward.”
“Why do you assume Lord Eastwood is here to confront you?”
“Why else would he be here?”
“Could he be bringing you a gift for Christmas?”
She gave him an exasperated look. “Do be serious.”
Taking a step closer to her, Colin asked, “Would you care for me to remain with you?”
“Do you mind?”
He shook his head. “I do not,” he replied. “It would be my pleasure.”
“Thank you,” she murmured.
He reached for her hand and gently squeezed it. “Shall we get this over with?”
“That would be wise,” she replied, remaining still.
Taking her hand, he placed it in the crook of his arm. “Would you like me to carry you inside?”
Arabella gave him a baffled look. “Why would you ask such a thing?”
“Because you haven’t moved from that spot.”
“Good point,” she muttered.
Colin took a step, encouraging her forward. “You need not fear,” he said. “I won’t let anything happen to you.”
Her face softened. “Thank you.”
“You don’t have to keep thanking me,” he said.
“I feel as if I must.”
The door to the manor was held open by the butler and they stepped inside. After Moore closed the door, he said, “Lord Eastwood has come to call on you. He is being received by Lady Langdon.”
“Thank you,” Arabella said.
Colin led her towards the drawing room and stopped just outside of the door. “Are you ready to face him?”
She squared her shoulders and met his gaze. “I am.”
“Then let us proceed,” he said, leading her into the room.
