Lord Harrowden stepped up to Miss Woodsley’s side and took her elbow in his. "You would do well to remember that this estate is no longer owned by the former earl. You cannot roam freely at will any longer."

Lucius lifted an eyebrow. "Noted.”

Miss Woodsley slipped away from Harrowden and put her hand on Lucius's arm. “Perhaps I may walk with you there."

Sir Lucius looked at the thin fabric of her dress. "I do not know that it is a good idea. You are not dressed for it, and I'm in a bit of a hurry."

Miss Woodsley's face fell. "Very well," she said, surprisingly docile. It seemed she was making efforts at taking his advice to heart. "But will you come visit again soon?"

Lucius thought of Selena, her slender collarbones that were just visible under the neckline of her dress. He thought of her creamy skin and her elegant nose and lips that, despite being prim and fit for a governess, invited one to press one’s lips on them. His one consuming thought was to see her again as soon as possible.

"I will be sure to come soon," he said. Before he turned, he caught the exultant look that flashed over Miss Woodsley 's features. He could not declare himself to Selena soon enough.

Chapter Eighteen

Lucius's conversation with Selena weighed heavily on his mind as he left Harrowden. He remembered the quiet look of reproach she gave him. He had not shown her how much he had begun to value her, and he was determined to start now.

At least he had convinced her not to leave. Or…not. She had made it clear her staying had nothing to do with him. But unless the countess sent her packing before the move to the dower house, Lucius had time. He was going to prove to her he was worthy of her.

His first step must, of course, be to visit his sister and see what other activities she had planned for the entertainment of her guests, and to see if she would be inviting the countess to any of them. He also needed to dig and find out why she had acted so spitefully by inviting the man who had jilted Selena, although this must be handled delicately or she would know the matter was important to him and perhaps be led to do irreparable mischief before he could secure Selena’s hand.

Lucius kicked his heels for another hour, knowing Maria would not be up and about yet. If he went now, he would be more likely to run into Downing, whose neck he wanted to strangle. When he thought it was time enough, Lucius had his horse saddled and rode over.

Maria was once again in the corridor when he arrived, and he suspected she spent her days peering through the windows waiting to see who would visit. “Lucius, you are here a mere day after our ball. How gratifying—have you come to discuss last night?”