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Chapter 18
The following morning, Sarah awoke in a daze. Had what happened the day before truly been real? She certainly hoped that it was because it was the best moment of her life. How was she to behave around Reginald now? There was no way of looking at him without desiring to touch, feeling longing, and thinking of the intimate moments they had shared.
Down in the breakfast room, Lisbeth was already seated next to her father, and Sarah was once again assigned to sit by the duke. Reginald was at the other end of the table.
She constantly caught him looking at her, smiling, looking away, then looking at her again. Sarah found herself wishing that she could be seated next to him. Perhaps he would surreptitiously bring a hand to her knee under the table. These thoughts warmed her but did nothing to help her appetite, which was nil. All she could think of was Reginald’s touch.
The duke turned to her and uttered, “You’re radiant this morning.”
“I thank you, Your Grace,” Sarah replied politely.
She had worn her favourite pale yellow dress for the morning, which was indicative of the happiness that she felt in her heart. Sarah sensed she was floating up in the clouds, nothing to hold her down.
If only the duke knew the real reason why she was so radiant that morning. It was because she was still filled with craving and longing to be alone with Reginald. She was sure that there was a flush upon her cheek each time she thought of it.
Just then, the duke stood to speak to the guests. “You have all been here for a week, which pleases me much. But seeing as we’re having such a marvellous time, I’d like to extend the invitation to remain at my estate for another week, for those who wish to.”
There was chatter amongst the guests and then applause. It seemed that everyone was pleased to remain, including Sarah, who knew that that was the only time she’d be able to see Reginald. What would happen to them after that week? Would he perhaps visit her in London? Would he go on his grand tour? The prospect frightened her, for Sarah wanted to be with Reginald as much as she possibly could.
The duke continued, “There’s another member joining our party who is of some interest. If the Earl of Benton wouldn’t mind standing to greet everyone.”
Sarah knitted her brow, looking towards her father. What did he have under his sleeve now?
Lord John Crawford stood, raising his glass. “I recalled a dear friend of mine, the late Duke of Glastonbury, who lived in Lord Reginald Simmons’ area of Wales. I thought to myself, how charming would it be to invite the son of the duke, Lord Kelly Spencer, heir to the title, to come and attend our party.”
The guests looked from side to side, trying to recall if they knew Lord Kelly Spencer.
Sarah looked to Reginald, who had gone pale. Why was he so anxious?
Lord John went on, “I’m sure that Lord Kelly and Lord Reginald will have much to discuss, and I hope that the young fellow arrives within one day.
There was light applause, and Sarah watched as Reginald nodded his head in satisfaction now. Perhaps, at first, he merely tried to recall who Lord Kelly was. Now, recognition was written on his face. Sarah smiled to herself. Perhaps, if this new personage was arriving at the estate, it would compel Reginald to stay another week.
The duke seated himself, and the lavish breakfast was served—much the same as it was the week prior. Sarah felt her appetite return as she thought of the day ahead. Perhaps she and Reginald could go for a ride and share some moments alone. The prospect was as delicious as the orange blossom scone placed before her.
“Perhaps we can find some time today to discuss matters,” the duke suggested, lifting his brow.
“And what do you wish to discuss?”
“Where your affections lie.”
Sarah swallowed down on the bit of scone in her mouth. How could she possibly tell the duke the truth now?
“That would be most agreeable.” She had to tell a fib. There was no other way.
“Your father seems pleased to stay another week.”
“He must be if he’s invited the son of a departed friend.”
The duke put down his tea. “I must say I was shocked. I wasn’t aware that your father knew anyone from Wales.”
“I was not aware either.” Sarah knitted her brow, suspicion taking over.
“It’s all in good fun. I hope that Lord Kelly is pleased with the estate.”
Sarah nodded her head in compliance. “How could he not be?”
Sarah caught Reginald looking at her once more, and by the duke’s reaction, he must have seen it, too.
