Page 71 of Midnight with the Marquess (The St. Clairs 2)

Just as she wrapped up the story, Jeremy stepped into the drawing room and quickly assessed the situation. He came and lifted Jenny, kissing her soundly, and then scooped up Delia, as well.

“Kiss me, too, Papa,” she demanded.

He did and looked at the two on the floor. “What are you building, Timothy?”

“Castle. And a moat.”

Jeremy asked Merrifield, “I suppose the moat was your idea.”

“It was, Your Grace, though we have now run out of building blocks. Moats are quite large things and require a good number of blocks to complete. Perhaps I can bring some to young Timothy.” He glanced at Rachel. “Tomorrow, possibly, if that is convenient.”

She nodded.

Catherine rose. “Come, Timothy. It’s time for your nap. Tell Lord Merrifield goodbye.”

The boy did, throwing his arms around the earl. It surprised Rachel because Timothy rarely was demonstrative.

Catherine held out a hand and Timothy scurried to her. “We’ll be back shortly,” she said and she and Jeremy left with the children.

Rachel scooted to the end of settee and set the book beside her. She gestured for Merrifield to take a seat at the other end. He did so and then stood again, retrieving his coat.

“You’ll never get into that by yourself,” she said and stood, reaching out her hands.

He gave it to her and she held it open as he slid his arms into it. She lifted it and smoothed it over his shoulders. He smelled awfully good. And was handsome. More things to add to her list.

They both sat and she asked, “Shall I ring for tea?”

“Please. Moat building is hard work. I’ve built up quite a thirst.”

Hmm. Also clever. Her list was growing by leaps and bounds. Rachel wondered if Merrifield had anything wrong with him.

Other than not being Merrick.

“How did you know I was already in London?” she asked.

“I didn’t know for certain but I assumed you would be. With the Season about to start, I was sure you’d be meeting with dressmakers and milliners and all kinds of people to see you properly outfitted for the Season.”

Cor snorted and continued with her needle.

“My grandmother doesn’t quite approve of my intentions this Season,” Rachel began. “I’ve chosen not to have a new wardrobe made up.”

“Why so?” His brows knit together in puzzlement. “Every woman does. Especially those on the Marriage Mart. I’m assuming you’ll be searching for a husband.”

She shrugged. “Everything created for last year was worn only once. It seemed such a waste, especially when I liked so many of the designs. I decided to merely wear what I did last Season. The men I speak with will never notice and it will give the ladies plenty to gossip about.”

Merrifield smiled broadly. “You’re right about both gentlemen and ladies. I find it a clever idea.”

The tea cart arrived as Jeremy and Catherine returned. They seated themselves and Catherine began pouring cups of tea for all.

Cor waved her away. “I think I’ll follow the example of my great-grandchildren and take a nap before dinner. If you’ll excuse me.”

Jeremy and Merrifield rose. “I will see you again tomorrow, Cor,” Merrifield promised.

They spent a pleasant hour over tea. Rachel discovered not only was Merrifield an entertaining companion but he knew quite a bit about livestock, which interested Jeremy. The two engaged in an enthusiastic discussion over goats.

Finally, Merrifield said, “I’ve overstayed my welcome. Besides, I need to go shopping for blocks.”

“There’s no need to, Lord Merrifield,” Rachel said. “Timothy has plenty.”

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