Page 31 of Allured By a Lord's Touch

“I’ve never slept so well in my life.”

A wry smile came to her lips. “And I see that you’re holding off on your grand tour.”

“I’m afraid that my suspicions were founded. The duke managed to convince me to stay for the time being.”

“I find that pleasing.”

“Do you?” Reginald asked, turning to her. They were riding at a comfortable pace to hold conversation while many of the others sped ahead.

“Yes, My Lord. I’m not sure if you’re aware of it, but I find your company pleasing.”

“And I promise you that I find your company more pleasing than you find my own. You’re a remarkable lady.”

That familiar blush came to her cheek. “Do you suppose that you’ll come to London, as the duke suggested?”

“There’s perhaps a chance.”

If Reginald could keep up the rouse while at a country estate, would it be possible to still hold it up on London’s city streets? That would be an unforgettable feat, and Reginald was certainly up for the challenge.

“There are so many museums that I wish to take you to,” Sarah said. “You wouldn’t believe the remarkable pieces of art on display.”

“I highly anticipate that.”

“And the music, as well.”

“You mentioned your love of opera. I must admit to having never been.”

Sarah looked at him in shock. “You’ve never been to the opera? How can that be?”

“I explained to you that I’m a hermit.”

“Even hermits must attend the opera from time to time.”

With that, Sarah sped ahead, and Reginald smiled to himself. Everything about her was intoxicating. He never had any desire to attend the opera, but with Sarah Crawford, he’d sit through endless hours of tenors and sopranos, just to be seated next to her in the darkness.

As they continued to ride, Reginald noted the picnic party off in the distance. Ladies lounged about, eating and drinking, waiting for the men to arrive. But seeing as Sarah continued to ride, Reginald would do the same.

Once he finally caught up to her, he said, “Where did you acquire your spirit, Lady Sarah?”

“What do you mean, My Lord?”

“Your spirit for art, adventure, liveliness?”

“I’ve been afforded much privilege in my life, and I consider these things to be privileges that I’ve always enjoyed.”

“There’s a deeper spirit that I speak of, as well.”

“What do you mean?” She turned to him.

There were so many things that Reginald wished to say, that she’d captivated him in such a short time, that her beauty was only on the surface and was just the beginning of her loveliness. Naturally, it was too soon to admit to any of these things.

“We’ll discuss it another time.”

Sarah’s voice became hushed. “If there is another time.”

“You think you’ll never see me again.”

“I fear it.”

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