0062412949 (R) by Charis Michaels

Author:Charis Michaels [Michaels, Charis]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Published: 2016-03-01T05:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

Jocelyn suggested an outdoor diversion—something that would give the Limpetts the time they needed to adjust to the rather sudden news that Piety would now entertain a suitor. The outdoors might also, Jocelyn suggested privately to Piety, allow the reunited couple to cool their not-so-faux-looking ardor.

Falcondale agreed immediately to a ride to Garnettgate’s pond and back. This surprised Piety, as he’d just ridden two days from London, and she was in no way accustomed to his immediate consent.

And best not to become accustomed, she reminded herself, leaning into him as he led her outside on his arm. His agreeability, she chanted, was all for show. He did not really wish to be with her—well, he did not really wish to stay with her. It was a favor, nothing more.

As favors went, it was highly effective. The Limpetts were incensed at the notion of Falcondale in general and a ride in particular, even with Jocelyn in attendance. The five brothers and Piety’s mother trailed them out of the house.

“If Piety is so desperate to posture over the English countryside,” Ennis Limpett said, “then why do it with this fellow? Surely Lord Falcondale is already familiar with the charms of his own country. We, however, would love a tour, sister.”

“You miss the point,” Falcondale said. “It’s not the countryside I wish to see; it is Miss Grey.”

“Well,” Idelle said, huffing out a breath, “this is quite a change of tune since we met you in London last week. Why, you indicated only a passing acquaintance with my daughter.”

“Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” Falcondale replied.

Piety looked back at their collective stunned reactions. How nice it was to have someone else engage them.

“If Piety insists on an outing,” Eli said, stepping to the front of the pack, “then I insist upon joining the ride.”

Some new confidence made Piety say, “You were not invited, Eli. And there aren’t enough horses.”

“We came by carriage, which was pulled by four horses,” he said.

“Your team requires rest, you know this,” said Piety. “Falcondale will borrow from Garnettgate’s stables, but there are only so many fresh mounts. There’s no need to abuse the livestock. Besides, you would dislike it immensely.”

“You have no idea what I dislike,” he said bitingly.

“If you must see the countryside, I can coordinate a group outing to the pond tomorrow. We could arrange a picnic.”

“I don’t want to picnic,” he said petulantly. “I want to be with you.”

“Yes, how very much you sound as if you want to be with me. You fool no one, Eli.”

“How dare you accuse Eli of subterfuge when you have snapped your fingers and somehow materialized a suitor out of thin air,” said Idelle.

Piety stopped walking. “Is it so hard to believe that a man would fancy me, Mother?”

“Someone is lying,” said Mrs. Limpett, coming upon her. “Either Lord Falcondale misrepresented how familiar he was with you in London, or he is lying about his interest in you now. Or both.”

The stables were behind them, and Falcondale and Jocelyn stepped up to speak to the grooms about three saddled mounts.

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