Page 42 of The Marquess of Secrets

It was Harrison.

Good lord, facing him in the harsh daylight after her late-night confession would be embarrassing, to say the least. But Lydia was determined to put her past firmly behind her. Reaching for her wrap, she slipped it on as she headed toward the door.

Upon opening it, her breath seized momentarily at the sight of him. Immaculately groomed and dressed as always, it was the warm smile making the lines crinkle at the corner of his eyes that appealed the most.

How tempting it would be to curl up in his embrace. Nuzzle her neck against his perfectly tied cravat. Inhale the masculine scent of his lime and bergamot cologne.

“You look rested. I thought to inquire if you’re well enough to join me for breakfast. There is a veritable feast laid out on the sideboard, and I will need assistance in eating said banquet.” He gave her a teasing wink.

“I would like to give it a go.”

“I’ll send Mariah up immediately. You slept well?”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“Your cough has all but vanished. A good sign.”

Their gazes locked. The heat emanating from them could light the logs in the hearth. Goodness, he radiated virile masculinity, and her entire body was attuned to it.

Two of his fingers wrapped around a strand of her golden tresses. “I like your hair down. Beautiful.”

She sucked in a breath at the feel of him caressing her hair. Harrison stood close enough she could nuzzle his neck. Lord, she was mightily tempted.

“I will see you directly.”

He lowered his hand and departed, and then Lydia exhaled.

By the time she dressed and was escorted to the dining room, she managed to rein in her runaway emotions.

Harrison stood as soon as she entered. The sideboard was littered with several silver chafing dishes. A footman stood at the ready to assist.

“Come and make your selection,” Harrison smiled. “There are not huge amounts as I believe in conserving and not wasting food, but there is enough for you to find something you like.”

Harrison handed her a plate as she lifted one of the dishes. Selecting poached eggs, bacon, fruit, and a scone, she took her seat as the footman automatically filled her cup with tea.

“That’s all, William. Inform Youngston we are not to be disturbed for about thirty minutes.”

“Yes, my lord.”

Lydia cut into the egg and popped a piece in her mouth. Lovely, made with shredded cheese.

“I received word this morning that Mr. Robins wishes to meet tomorrow. I could ask him to come here so that you may sit in on the discussion.”

And have her personal life been picked over by a stranger while in her presence?

How mortifying.

It struck her as she ate after all that happened, her love and confidence destroyed by Huntsford—she trusted Harrison Hornsby.

Was she making another grave mistake? So grateful for the rescue that she would believe anything he told her? Taken in by his generous nature and the molten heat radiating in his silver-gray eyes?

His gentle kiss? His heroic doings as Doctor Damian?

Blast, she hated doubting herself. But she could no longer cower. How could she move forward if she didn’t confront the past?

“Yes, have Mr. Robins come here. I will attend the meeting.”

Harrison gave her an admiring look. “Brave girl. Well done.”