Page 33 of His Perfect Bride
“As I said, we’ll go a different day when you’re not so tired.”
Jackson’s stomach tied in a dozen more knots seeing Sage again, although only five minutes had passed since she’d been in his study. Even in her role as a lady’s maid, Sage was entirely too appealing from the way she moved, the way she spoke, and even the way she tilted her head.
Augusta situated herself more comfortably against the mound of pillows, as if she planned to stay a while.
He frowned. He couldn’t remember the last time Augusta had ever stayed in bed. Was she ill?
“Jackson,” she said as she closed her eyes. “I need you to take Sage to visit her sister today.”
“No, Augusta.” Sage spoke quietly, firmly. “I can wait.”
“Nonsense. You’ve been looking forward to seeing Willow, and there’s no reason Jackson can’t make the arrangements and take you there. Right, Jackson?” Augusta cracked open an eye and pinned him with a glare that told him there was only one right answer.
“Of course I can take Sage—Miss Rhodes.” He’d already wanted to go and didn’t care if Augusta could sense his eagerness at her request.
Sage shook her head at him. “I wouldn’t consider imposing on you. I know how busy you are.”
Augusta closed her eye. “It would do Jackson good to take a break and get away for a day.”
It would? She was probably right, just as she’d been right about everything else so far.
“I really don’t mind waiting.” Sage’s voice was edged with a note of desperation.
Did she not want to go with him? “I’m probably not the best company.”
“That’s not it at all. You’re fine company, and I’m sure I would enjoy a day with you as much as I would with Augusta, but…”
“But what?” Augusta persisted, opening her eyes and looking as wide-awake as if she’d already been up half the day.
“But I don’t want to bother him,” Sage half whispered.
“She won’t be a bother, will she?” Augusta’s gaze was direct, once again giving him no room to argue—not that he wanted to argue.
The prospect of spending the day with Sage, even just to take her to Salt Spring Island, was an opportunity he didn’t plan to forego now that it had been given to him.
“I’ve been to Salt Spring Island many times during my explorations. I know where the settlements are, and I’m sure I’ll be able to locate your sister without too much trouble.”
Sage hesitated, her forehead still creased. “That’s so kind of you, Mr. Lennox. I don’t know what to say.”
Augusta leaned back comfortably. “Just say yes.”
“But what about you?” Sage tucked Augusta’s blanket around her. “What if you’re fighting an illness? I’d like to be here to watch over you today.”
Augusta snorted. “I shall be fine. I’m just a little tired this morning and will be back to myself in no time at all.”
She already seemed back to herself, but Jackson kept that piece of information to himself, not wanting to point it out and have her change her mind. “When would you like to leave?” He directed his question toward Sage.
She glanced at Augusta for an answer.
“You’ll leave right away.” Augusta’s tone said she wouldn’t be swayed.
As though recognizing the same, Sage nodded. “You’re sure you’ll be all right?”
“Of course.” Augusta’s thin lips curved into a satisfied smile that Jackson didn’t understand, but that didn’t matter.
He started to cross to the door. “I shall be ready to depart in no more than five minutes.”
* * *
