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Egads. Rafe’s brother definitely held a tendre for the blacksmith.

The man sent his brother a fond grin. “Lord Sebastian. Looking for Nathan? Unfortunately, he’s out at the moment.”

“How exceedingly unfortunate.” Sebastian didn’t look put out in the least.

The man's gaze flitted to Rafe’s, then returned to Sebastian's, before snapping back to Rafe. His eyes widened, and he quickly bowed. “Your Grace.”

Rafe dipped his chin.

“When can we arrange another night of cards?” Sebastian asked. “And you and Miss Dawson aren’t allowed to partner again. It’s not fun when you two run roughshod all over us.” He leaned over the counter and whispered overloud. “I say we rig it; you and I partner and stick Nathan on Miss Dawson.”

The blacksmith laughed. “You realize Miss Dawson will see right through that ploy.”

Rafe stiffened. Miss Dawson? Who was this man speaking with such familiarity about Theodora? Rafe raked his gaze over the cad. Tall. Broad. Muscled. Dark-haired. Hard jaw. Rafe frowned. Quite a few similarities were shared between himself and this Mr. Turner.

“I need to take a ride out to see Miss Dawson soon. Her mount is due to be reshod. Perhaps we can arrange for a game that night.”

Fuck if he will.

A growl rumbled through the shop, and Mr. Turner’s and Sebastian’s gazes shot to Rafe.

Sebastian’s face split into a grin. A grin Rafe really didn’t like. He turned and leaned against the counter, crossing his arms. “Mr. Turner here has been helping Miss Dawson for quite some time. With all her…smithy needs.”

Mr. Turner frowned at Sebastian. “I have…” he said slowly. “I’m the village blacksmith…”

“Considering she spends a great deal of time at the castle,” Rafe said tightly. “Her mount can be taken care of at the Ironcrest stables. We have a farrier who is much better suited for the task.”

Mr. Turner’s gaze turned hard. “My apologies for being impertinent, Your Grace, but I will leave that decision to Miss Dawson.”

Rafe’s jaw clenched. There was no apology in that statement.

And while Rafe was fighting back the strong desire to take the cad out back and plant his fist in his face, Sebastian looked like he had a front-row seat at the theater. Rafe was surprised his brother hadn’t started clapping.

“We best be going,” Sebastian said, pushing off the counter. “Please let Nathan know I was asking after him. It’s been too long since I’ve seen him.” He turned a pout on Mr. Turner. “Someone’s elder brother is working him too hard.”

Mr. Turner arched a brow. “Yes, and that someone appreciates food on his table.”

Sebastian threw on a cheeky smile. “Lucky for him, he has a big, strong brother providing for him.”

The man rolled his eyes. “Weren’t you leaving? Off with you.”

“Don’t miss me too much,” Sebastian called over his shoulder.

Rafe didn’t miss the last longing glance his brother sent the blacksmith’s way as they exited the shop.

Sebastian leaned Rafe’s way as they untied their mounts. “Miss Dawson will not appreciate your little display back there.”

Rafe glared at his brother. He didn’t understand what was going on inside him. All he knew was that he greatly disliked that man’s familiarity with Miss Dawson. But also…Sebastian seemed smitten with the man as well, but was aware there might be something between Miss Dawson and Mr. Turner…and wasn’t upset over it? His head was reeling.

As soon as they were outside the village, Rafe couldn’t hold back his curiosity any longer. “You all are…close. The Turners, you, and Miss Dawson?”

Sebastian grinned. “I was wondering how long it would take until you broke. Yes. As I said, Nathan is my best mate. He is…like me.”

Ah. Rafe eyed his brother. “I’m glad you’re not alone.”

His brother’s smile wasn’t nearly as bright as it usually was. “I’m very lucky to have Nathan. And Mr. Turner. He watches out for us. And still treats me like I’m a mischievous child,” he added with a grumble. “He’s only eight years my senior. I’m a man.”

“Hmm.”