Page 81 of If Not for the Duke

“How nice.” His tight smile suggested it wasn’t. “Now I have the pleasure of the company of two beautiful ladies.”

Bernie cast her eyes toward the sky as if she found his comments ridiculous.

Lena tried to hide a smile, pleased to see Bernie saw through the man’s attempt at flattery. She didn’t want the younger woman to be taken in by a compliment, regardless of who gave it.

“I’m certain you have more important matters to attend to,” Lena said. “Lady Bernice and I wouldn’t want to take your time.”

“Nothing of the sort. I’m happy to accompany you.”

“I must insist.” Lena allowed some of her true feelings for the man to show. At least, that was her hope. She drew back on her reins, pleased when Bernie did the same. “Have a pleasant day,” she told the viscount.

“Goodbye,” Bernie added with a firm tone.

“Very well. Apparently, the two of you have much to discuss.” With a nod and a disgruntled look, Ludham departed, jerking on the reins of his stallion.

Lena watched him ride away with relief.

“I can’t say that I care for him.” Bernie scowled as she watched him, too.

“Good.”

“Good?” Bernie looked askance at her.

“Because it means you are an excellent judge of character.” Lena smiled as she kneed her horse forward.

Bernie rode alongside her. “Who could enjoy his company when he’s insincere and irritating?”

Lena laughed. “Who indeed?” Relief flooded her that Bernie didn’t seem upset. Did that mean Marbury had spoken with Sterling and gained his approval for their plan?

She hoped so. When she knew for sure, it would ease her worry. Perhaps she should’ve been the one to speak with Sterling. But how could she when she knew he’d ask why she felt so certain? That was a question she couldn’t answer.

*

Sterling detested gardenparties. They seemed pointless. Flowers and plants were all well and good, but only if they were his, so he could enjoy them at his leisure. Nor did he care to visit idly when he had other, more important matters on his mind.

Yet he stood at the Morrison garden party with a glass of lemonade in hand, keeping an eye on Bernie. Aunt Edith was there as well, but after his sister had been hurt, he couldn’t help but worry, especially since he hadn’t determined who had done it. He’d been displeased that she’d gone riding the other morning without him, but she had stated the groom had remained close, plus she’d met Lena who also had a groom accompany her.

He had been pleased when Marbury had advised him of the plan to send the reporter who had written of Clarke’s recent supposed success information to the contrary. Sterling was weary of Clarke’s claims and didn’t think he could believe them. His acquaintance, Richard Norton, was scheduled to arrive on the island in two days. Sterling already had a good idea of what Norton would find—that Clarke had exaggerated his progress and the potential for success. If that were true, the dig would soon come to an end.

Watching over Bernie wasn’t the only reason he was here, he admitted to himself. There was also the possibility Lena would come. His spirits lifted at the thought. Three days had passed since they’d been together. He was baffled by how much he missed her.

It would be both torture and a joy to see her at a crowded event where the chance of them having a moment alone seemed unlikely. Then again, he was becoming adept at stealing time with her. The crowded garden party would certainly provide a challenge, he thought as he studied the bustling paths of the expansive garden.

When his gaze caught on the small maze at the far end, he smiled with satisfaction. The area held the potential for a quiet moment with Lena. Where else might work? He had located two more possibilities when the lady herself came into view.

His heart leapt. His pulse quickened. All others fell away.

He was definitely enamored of her.

She wore a pale pink silk gown with a deeper pink underskirt. Piping of the same shade circled the neck, cuffs, and waist. A matching hat and parasol completed her attire. A hint of the same color also tinted her cheeks as she leaned close to Lady Havenby, who walked at her side and smiled.

Lena looked like a breath of fresh air, a cool drink on a hot summer’s day. He gave himself a mental shake even as he sought a comparison more worthy of her beauty. But it wasn’t just her appearance—it was how she made him feel.

He wished he better understood it. That he could define it. Perhaps there was a hint of magic that surrounded them. In truth, there was no other explanation for the emotions running through him.

Then despite the crowd, she saw him as if somehow sensing his presence. The link they shared couldn’t be dismissed.

“Go on,” Bernie whispered.

---