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If he was, then maybe she could torment him a little. Sophia had never considered herself a petty person – she was not confident enough to do that – but right now, she decided to be a little cruel.
Besides, it wasn’t often that a gentleman was interested in her.
She managed a smile as Mister Shore approached.
“Good morning, Mister Shore. Are you out for a walk as well?”
“Just a little stroll. My home is on the other side of the park.”
“Oh, really?”
Mister Shore’s smile was warm. Sophia was sure that plenty of women had fallen at his feet in the past with that smile. It wasn’t working on her, but it was nice. He was giving her some attention.
Maybe she should make the most of it. After all, she wasn’t going to be marrying Thomas.
Why did you have to think about that?
“I was about to ask why you’re out here alone, but then I saw my friend and your sister.” Mister Shore gestured towards the couple, who were now on the other side of the bridge. “You’re their chaperone today?”
“I’m afraid so.”
“Afraid so?”
Sophia bit her lip.
“I’m not feeling very well, Mister Shore. All I want to do is go home, but Mother insisted.”
“Then why couldn’t she do it?”
“She’s very busy right now. Apparently, I don’t have much to do with my time, so I could make myself useful.” Sophia glanced around, realising that Aimee and Thomas were almost out of sight. “I’d better get after them. If you’ll excuse me, Mister Shore?”
“Let me escort you.” He held out his arm to her. “If you’ll permit me, my lady.”
“Are you sure? Don’t you have other things to do?”
“What sort of gentleman would I be if I didn’t escort a lady who isn’t completely herself?”
Sophia couldn’t help laughing at that as she took his arm.
“Given what I’ve heard about you, Mister Shore, I don’t think you can call yourself a gentleman in that sense?”
“What? Who talked?”
“What would you do if I told you?”
Mister Shore shrugged.
“I’d probably nod and say it was true. I’m not exactly a gentleman in the true sense of the word.”
“Then give me a good reason why I should associate with you.”
“Because I’m amusing, and I can make people laugh?”
Sophia couldn’t help giggling at that.
“I suppose there is some truth in that. You are rather entertaining.”
Mister Shore’s eyes glinted as they started walking.
