Lakeshire Park by Megan Walker

Author:Megan Walker
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: 2020-03-24T17:25:15+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

Mr. Pendleton was his name. David Pendleton. I rolled the name around on my tongue and tried to focus on Lady Demsworth’s words. She had me cornered in the hallway, barely out of the breakfast room, excitement in her voice as she told me the whole of his life. But I could hardly get past the sound of his name on my lips.

“He is as tall as my Ronald,” she said. “And he loves horse racing, so you’ll have to indulge him in those endeavors now and then.” It was as if she’d forgotten the despair of my circumstances and the engagement was as good as done in her mind.

“I expect we shall receive his response directly; he is fortunately staying in his country house for the summer. I imagine we will have him for dinner within the next few days.” Her eyes were bright as she anticipated my response.

“How wonderful.” My voice cracked at the end. I thought of Peter and felt as hollowed out as an old tree. Thankfully, Lady Demsworth rushed away to tell Cook we would be receiving another guest.

I’d taken a tray in my room the evening before, claiming a headache, and fallen fast asleep. I had few thoughts for Lord Gray other than pity and anger at his neglect. There was no use fighting against a circumstance that stood as tall and immovable as a mountain. Just as I’d done when Mama died, I’d have to take a breath and keep moving. At least I had Mr. Pendleton to save me this time. His family had to be more welcoming than Lord Gray.

Apparently, the night had continued rather late for Clara and the others, as I heard not a sound even long after breakfast. Sunshine beamed brightly through a front window, and despite rain-sodden grounds, nature called to me. Clarity seemed to come in its presence, and I was in dire need of clearing my thoughts, of realigning my priorities and finally facing my own future.

Not to mention avoiding Peter. Our conversation in the stalls yesterday had left me feeling vulnerable. I’d grabbed his hand on an impulse, knowing full well that our afternoons together were no more than casual meetings to protect our sisters. And yet, I’d felt something. Something surprising. Something real. Had he felt it too?

No. Peter was invested in his duty to his sister. He kept me entertained to keep me away from Clara just as I’d done to him during our first few days here. How mortifying to have been so bold and forward. I rubbed my temples. If only I could cancel our bargain and flee from these feelings that only seemed to confuse me more, especially with an engagement on my horizon. But, now more than ever, Clara needed me to keep Peter at a distance. This time was crucial for her and Sir Ronald to make their match. Like it or not, I would have to be available later this afternoon.

“Do be careful not to muddy this,” Mary pleaded as she laid out my light-blue riding habit.

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