Page 4 of The Duke of Distraction
Felix announced it was time to ready the next race between Lady Exeby and Mrs.Childers.Both women were in their thirties and were admirable drivers.Mrs.Childers possessed a more dashing style and was faster, but Lady Exeby’s skill and quiet confidence were the reasons behind Sarah’s wager.
Sarah migrated back to the platform where Felix stood.“You have the best view, you know,” she said.
“I do.”He smiled down at her.“Come see.”He held his hand out to help her up the steps.
Sarah put her hand in his and climbed onto the platform.It was only three or so feet off the ground, but it did provide a better vantage point.She looked out over the crowd and the track.“You should build platforms for everyone to stand on next year.”
He slid her a sly glance.“You think there will be a next year?”
“Why not?”
He shrugged.“You know me, I always find something else to occupy my mind.Besides, I don’t think I’d be allowed to build something that large.This thing is portable but, as you can see, barely large enough for two.”
It was indeed.She had to stand quite close to him, not that she minded.Felix was the only gentleman around whom she felt utterly at ease, probably because he was the only gentleman she didn’t have to worry about impressing.
“Did you wager on Mrs.Childers or Lady Exeby?”he asked.“Let me guess—Mrs.Childers.”
“I did not, in fact,” Sarah said.
“I’m surprised.You’ve made some daring wagers the past two weeks, and from reviewing the ledgers, you’ve earned quite a sum.”
Sarah flinched, then looked up at him, for he was at least six inches taller and perhaps more like eight.“Please tell me you haven’t shared that information with Anthony.”
“I haven’t.People’s wagers are private and not mine to disclose.”He shot a glance toward the track.“Are you saving for something specific?”
“Merely planning for my future of spinsterhood.”
His gaze snapped to hers.“Why would you do that?”
“Because it seems prudent?”She laughed.“If I have enough money to support myself, my parents can’t force me into a situation I don’t want.”
Felix looked mildly horrified.“And what would that be?”
“Marriage to a man I don’t love.”
“Mmm, thatwouldbe rather odious,” he murmured, looking toward the starting line where Mrs.Childers and Lady Exeby were preparing themselves.
Sarah snorted in a most unladylike fashion, but she never felt the need to censor herself in front of Felix.“You think all marriage is odious.”
He grinned down at her.“I do indeed.”
“But surely even you will have to relent—you’ve a title to pass on.”
“My cousin is more than capable of becoming earl,” he said.“My uncle is making sure of it.”
Sarah hadn’t ever met his uncle.“That seems rather presumptuous of him.”
“I don’t mind.In fact, it makes things simpler knowing I don’thaveto marry.”He gave her a pitying look.“I’m sorry you feel as if you do.”
She let out a hollow laugh.“Allwomen feel that way because it’s our duty.”
“It’s bloody ridiculous.You should be able to invest your money and live your life as you see fit.”
“How forward thinking of you, Felix.”
“Yes, well, independence can’t be overestimated.”He straightened his coat.“And now I should begin the next race.Do you want to stay up here to watch?”
A thrill shot through her.“Yes, if you don’t mind.”
