Page 121 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“That’s what friends are for,” Madalene responded, smiling.

After Madalene departed, Jane’s lady’s maid stepped inside, closing the door behind her.

“You’re finally awake,” Susan said.

“I am, but I’m debating sleeping the day away.”

Susan walked over to the armoire and removed some articles of clothing. “That would be most foolhardy, as it is a beautiful day.”

“Is it?”

“It is,” Susan confirmed. “Shall we dress you?”

Jane tossed the blankets off and put her feet over the side of the bed. “I suppose so.”

“You sound reluctant.”

“I am just dreading what today will bring.”

Susan gave her a curious look. “If I may say so, milady, you don’t seem very much like yourself today.”

“That is because I confessed my feelings to Lord Evan, and he told me in no uncertain terms that he does not intend to offer for me.”

“Then that’s his loss,” Susan said firmly. “Not yours.”

Jane gave her lady’s maid a grateful smile. “Thank you for saying so.”

“You’re welcome.” Susan walked closer to the bed. “Besides, I think a change of scenery would help you greatly.”

“You may be right.”

“I know I’m right.”

Jane chuckled wryly. “I suppose I shouldn’t remain here, feeling bad for myself. That will only make me more miserable.”

“Precisely right, milady.”

After Jane was dressed, and her hair neatly coiffed, she exited her bedchamber and headed towards the drawing room. She might as well start working on her needlework.

As she descended the stairs, she saw Oliver and Emmeline in the entry hall, enamored looks on their faces. It was evident they cared for one another, despite Oliver carrying on as he had been.

Oliver glanced over at Jane. “You’re looking well.”

“Thank you, Brother,” Jane replied as she approached them. “I wish I could say the same for you, but your clothes are horribly wrinkled.”

“And he is in desperate need of a bath,” Emmeline interjected.

Oliver grew serious as his eyes searched Jane’s face. “I heard someone attempted to abduct you in Hyde Park.”

“It’s true,” Jane confirmed.

“I’m glad that Lord Evan was there,” Oliver said.

“As am I.”

Oliver stepped closer to her and put his hand on her shoulder. “I know we don’t always see eye to eye, but I don’t know what I would do if something happened to you.”

“Thank you,” she replied, touched by the tenderness in his eyes. “That is most kind of you to say.”

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