Selena clenched her fists, her breath coming out in puffs. She certainly did not appreciate Sir Lucius questioning her actions. To own the truth, she had experienced some qualms when Lord Harrowden announced he would return inside directly after Rebecca had left the greenhouse. But Rebecca had been accompanied by her maid, and surely that was protection enough, was it not? Not to mention the relief Selena felt in not having to bear the earl’s presence while she finished her task.

Besides, what Sir Lucius could not understand was that if Selena had been given a task to fulfill for Lady Harrowden, she was required to finish it. The countess had made it abundantly clear that the flower arrangements would have to be prepared today in order for the servant to send them to the village fair on time, and only a lady had the right touch to prepare bouquets in the proper manner that would best reflect the estate. Selena was caught between two obligations, and it was only natural that she should cede her place to Rebecca’s maid so that Selena might finish her task for the countess. How could she know Lord Harrowden would follow directly behind? It was not as if she could run after him to ask him his intentions.

How dare Sir Lucius make me question my actions. Insolent man.

"I believe I have irritated you," Sir Lucius said.

Selena’s thinly soled half-boots were quiet on the snowy path, and Sir Lucius’s made a crunching sound as he walked at her side.

"No, why should you think so? It is merely that I am quiet."

“Undoubtedly fatigued from having to chase after so tiresome a girl.” Sir Lucius took hold of her arm in a gentle grasp, halting her forward progress.

Selena turned to face him reluctantly but avoided meeting his eyes. It would be better for her if she did not stare at him too long. His face was set in severe lines, but his eyes held such a warmth to them that she almost felt she could trust him. That would never do. She knew all too well how hard and cynical his face could look, since he wore that expression habitually with everyone, it seemed…except at times. But experience told her that it was only a matter of time before he would treat her, too, with indifference—or worse—scorn.

As if to further weaken her resistance, Sir Lucius studied her, a small crease forming on his brow. “I am sorry for scolding. I worry for your safety here.”

Selena swallowed a lump in her throat, then turned from Sir Lucius and began walking forward. She could not put her faith in him, no matter how kindly disposed he seemed right now. At what point would he, too, remind her of her lowly position and how powerless she was?

They were nearing the house, and Selena cautioned herself that their difference in station did not permit such intimate discourse, and she would do well to remember it.