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Nicole inclined her head, puzzled by the change in subject. “Horses are much like people, my lord. They’re rarely skittish without cause. Why?”
“Because I’ve just purchased an amazing stallion who I believe can outrace every champion England boasts. I’ve seen him run, and he’s incomparable, both in form and speed. However, during the fortnight he’s been at Tyreham, he’s balked whenever my head groom or I approach. Do you think you could bring him around?”
“And if I do?”
“Then you’ll ride him in the Derby Stakes.”
“I’ll bring him around.”
Dustin chuckled. “I take it the idea appeals to you?”
“My greatest dream has always been to ride in the Derby,” Nicole answered honestly.
“Excellent. Then win Dagger over and your dream will become reality.”
Nicole fought the urge to hug him. “Thank you for giving me this opportunity.”
“You’re welcome.” His expression turned quizzical. “You never did answer my question about your living arrangements.”
“I live in London. With my father.”
“I see.” A pensive silence. “Your father is welcome to move to Tyreham with you,” he added, studying her reaction. “I can offer you a cottage on the far grounds where my tenants reside. It’s small but furnished and private, and it will eliminate your need to travel to and from London each day.”
Relief exploded in Nicole’s chest. Not only a job that surpassed her wildest hopes but a home as well—and a safe place to hide her father. Perhaps her wishing locket had worked a miracle after all. “That would be ideal, my lord. Again, I thank you.”
“And again you’re welcome.” He closed the distance between them, looming over her in a way that made her mouth go dry.
“I …” She swallowed, staring at his shirtfront. “I’d best be on my way. I have to pack. And tomorrow will be here before you know it.”
“Indeed it will.”
“You won’t be sorry you made this decision, my lord.”
“No, Nicole, I won’t be.” Dustin cupped her face, raising it to meet his gaze. “Because if you ride half as fast as you run, you’ll put even Nick Aldridge to shame.”
Four
NICOLE’S JAW DROPPED. “YOU knew?”
“The instant I saw you. Did you honestly think I wouldn’t?”
She gave a small, bewildered shrug. “In truth, I didn’t think at all. I hadn’t time to. I had no idea who you really were until a quarter hour past.” A mutinous spark. “Why did you put me through that grueling interview if you already knew who I was?”
“Because an incident occurred just before your arrival, and I had to decide if your visit was in any way related.”
“What incident?”
Dustin answered with a question of his own. “Your father—the man who will accompany you to Tyreham—it’s Nick Aldridge, isn’t it?”
Fear flashed in her violet eyes—eyes more exquisite than he’d been able to fathom in the darkness of night—as frantically, she sought an explanation. “He’s … I’m …”
“So, he’s not in Scotland at all,” Dustin mused aloud.
“My lord, please.” She’d gone sheet white.
“It’s all right, Nicole.” Dustin captured her fingers, warming them in his. “Your secret is safe. Your father will be, too. I’ll make certain of it. I promise.”
Satisfaction inundated him as he saw her visibly relax.
