She turned, and to his pleasant surprise, she did not scowl at him. “Good morning, my lord.”
“I’ve been sent to retrieve you for breakfast.” He gestured towards her book. “May I see what has so captured your attention?”
A faint flush crept into her cheeks as she closed the book protectively. “I would rather not.”
“Now I am intrigued. What secrets are you hiding in those pages?”
“Nothing that would interest you.”
He stepped closer, watching her curiously. “So you say.”
Rising to her feet, she tucked the sketchbook firmly against her chest. “It’s not ready to be seen.”
He inclined his head, not wanting to press her. “Very well. My mother insisted I fetch you, so here I am, performing my duty.”
“That was thoughtful of her.”
He gave her a crooked smile. “What about me? Am I to receive no credit for braving the outdoors on your behalf?”
“Your contribution is marginal, my lord,” she replied.
He offered his arm. “May I escort you in?”
Taking a step back, she said, “I can walk just fine, thank you.”
“I’ve no doubt. Still, I am endeavoring to be a gentleman.”
Her gaze dropped to his arm. “I suppose it wouldn’t kill me to accept your offer.”
“Spoken like a true optimist,” he said with a quiet chuckle.
She rested her fingers lightly on his sleeve, and together they strolled towards the house. After a pause, he asked, “How did you sleep?”
“Well, thank you. And you?”
He kept his gaze ahead. “Surprisingly well.”
“Good. Now, since that topic is out of the way, shall we discuss the state of the gardens?” she asked lightly.
He gave a mock shudder. “I would rather not.”
“Then what subject would you prefer?”
He glanced sideways at her. “Are you enjoying London?”
She perked up, and her eyes brightened. “Oh, yes. Everything is so vibrant and full of life.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
“What do you enjoy most in Town?”
He considered before replying. “Vauxhall Gardens. The grounds are magnificent, especially during the fireworks displays.”
A wistful look crossed her face. “My mother would have loved to see that. I do not believe she ever saw fireworks.”
“Were you close with her?”
“I was. But she died when I was still quite young.”
