Page 55 of Dubious about the Duke (Second Sons of London 5)

“Once they have stability in their lives, they will be good.” She smiled up at him. “Or at least as good as they can be. I understand from what you said last night that they won’t always behave as little angels. Some slips are bound to occur.”

His fingers caught hers and squeezed. “Like this?”

Sera tugged on his hand. “Please, Win. Let go. Someone might see and get the wrong impression.”

“What impression might that be?” he asked, though he did release her.

“I... I’d rather not say.”

But he knew. Governesses were in a precarious position. He supposed more often than not, the master of the house took advantage of his power over them—and took advantage of them. If his servants saw him touch Sera, they would think less of her.

And him.

He wanted the respect of his people, both tenants and servants alike.

Win also wanted to touch Sera more than anything. He would simply have to find a place to do so away from prying eyes, which included the two very curious boys now in his care.

They continued toward the stables, with him asking about the morning’s lesson, though he had already heard some of it. By the time they reached the stables, the boys were talking animatedly with Harrison, his head groom.

“Ah, Your Grace,” Harrison said as they arrived. “Freddie and Charlie here tell me they are going to learn to ride.”

“Yes, I think they are at a perfect age to do so. You would be the best man to teach them, Harrison. After all, you taught me.”

Charlie blinked. “You were here when His Grace was a little boy?”

“I was,” Harrison confirmed. “A young groom wet behind the ears, I was. But I always had a way with animals. Horses, in particular. I was tasked with teaching His Grace to ride. He was a fast learner.”

“We will be, too,” Freddie said determinedly.

“Then let’s begin,” Win suggested.

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