Page 80 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

He offered her a polite smile. “How are you faring, Lady Jane?”

“I am well.”

“I’m pleased to hear that,” he acknowledged. “Is Baldwin home?”

Jane shook her head. “I’m afraid he hasn’t returned from his ride with Madalene yet.”

A disappointed look came to Lord Evan’s face. “It is most urgent that I speak to him.”

“Would you care to take a turn around the garden with me while you wait for his return?” Jane asked, feeling bold.

His face softened and his smile returned. “I would enjoy that immensely.” He stepped forward and offered his arm. “Allow me to escort you.”

“Thank you,” she replied as she placed her hand on his sleeve.

Lord Evan led her towards the rear of the townhouse, and they stepped out onto the veranda. As they headed down a footpath, Jane attempted to think of something clever to say, but she was at a loss for words.

“It is a beautiful day,” Lord Evan said.

“Yes, it is,” she replied as she removed her hand from his arm.

Lord Evan’s eyes scanned the well-maintained gardens. “Your gardens are magnificent.”

“That they are.”

He glanced over at her with mirth in his eyes. “Are we only going to discuss polite topics today?”

“I would prefer not to.”

“As would I.”

Jane kept her gaze straight ahead as she remarked, “I am sorry to hear about the state of your father’s health.”

Lord Evan grew solemn. “Thank you for that.”

“Are you close with him?”

He huffed. “No one is close to the duke.”

“Whatever do you mean?” Jane pressed, unsure of his meaning.

“My father has always kept others at a distance, especially his own family.”

“Why is that?”

Lord Evan stopped on the gravel footpath and turned to face her. “You must understand that my father considers me a grand disappointment.”

“That can’t possibly be true.”

“I’m afraid it is.”

“May I ask why?”

Lord Evan’s lips quirked. “You are rather inquisitive, aren’t you?”

“I just find myself curious how someone could possibly be disappointed in you.”

“Thank you for saying that, but my entire family is dissatisfied with my choices.”

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