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“I just know. His Lordship is busy finding a bride. Most likely, Anna Rutley. He has far more important things on his mind.”
“Laura, I can’t profess that I know everything, but you would not believe the thoughts that a man has in his mind. I’m told their thinking is quite extensive when it comes to the female population.”
Laura felt a flush come to her cheek. Was it possible that Edward was having the same thoughts about her as she was having about him? The idea was tantalizing.
Diana got up from the bed. “I’m frightfully tired. I think I’ll rest and see you in the morning.”
“Very well.”
Diana left the room, and Laura returned to the book. As the taper flickered by her side, she read page after page with relish. To her dismay, the book was almost concluded. She didn’t want it to end. It wasn’t uncommon for Laura to read a book again just as soon as it was done, particularly a book that enthralling. But considering that she borrowed the book from Edward, she decided she would return it just as soon as she was done. Sadly, that occurred within the hour.
Once the book was finished, Laura could have waited to return it the following morning, but considering that she was bursting with energy, Laura decided that the time to return it would be right that very moment. Perhaps she’d even procure herself some tea from the kitchen. Wrapping her shawl around her, Laura walked up the stairs and down the hall to Edward’s study. Considering the hour, Laura assumed that the master would be asleep. Upon entering the study, she discovered Edward sitting behind his desk.
He looked up, confusion written on his face. Laura nearly dropped the book out of shock. “Good evening, Your Grace.”
The master stood. “Laura.”
“I’m so sorry. I didn’t know that you’d be here.”
“I was finishing up some work. Is anything the matter?” There was genuine concern on his face.
“Nothing is the matter.” Laura held out the book. “I meant to return this.”
“You’ve finished it already?”
“Yes. It was so marvellous. I couldn’t stop reading it.”
“I feel the same. I read it at least once every year.”
“I almost started reading it again!”
Edward laughed. “I do not blame you.”
“But considering that I borrowed it from your library, I thought it best to return it at once lest I keep it for several months.”
“You’re more than welcome to. You may keep it if you want.”
“I could never do that.”
“The choice is yours.”
Laura walked to the desk and placed it down. She felt Edward’s eyes on her all the while. “I’m sorry if I disturbed you.”
“Not in the least. I expected to see you this afternoon. With the tea service.”
“I … ” Laura couldn’t think of a good explanation. “There were many things on my mind.”
“Sit.” Edward motioned towards the chair on the opposite side of the desk. “What was on your mind?”
How could Laura possibly explain? She felt a constriction in her chest, and her cheeks flushed once more. “I find myself thinking of you. Often.”
Laura’s mind was spinning out of control. Did she just say that? How could she possibly let those words fly out of her mouth? Still, it was the truth, and if she didn’t utter it, she might lose her mind entirely.
“Laura, I would be remiss if I didn’t say the same.”
“What?”
“It’s the truth. I think of you often.”
