They turned a bend. Letting out another relieved breath, she said quietly, “Now.” Seemingly of the same mind, the horses burst into speed, tearing down the old dirt road as if chased by the devil himself.

She turned to him, eyes sparkling. “You were brilliant. Thank you for playing along.”

His mind sputtered at her smile. Was she referring to his kiss? He moved closer to her and raised his eyebrow. “What was it you said about this assignment being much more pleasant than you had originally planned?”

She blushed and looked at her hands.

Matteo asked, “Is there a Lord Cavendish waiting for you somewhere? Might he call me out upon our arrival?” He teased but watched her face closely.

A flash of sadness crossed her eyes. “I am a widow, you see. Lord Cavendish has been gone nearly three years now.”

Matteo reached for her hand. “I am sorry.” With his eyes, he tried to portray the sympathy he felt for this brave woman. Her hand found his lips before he realized it was his own effort that had brought it to him. He had never met anyone like her. Shaking his head and grinning, he considered her. She ignited all his protective instincts at once while at the same time emanating such an aura of adventure that he felt like discovering a new land at her side.

“What is it?” she asked.

He leaned closer and looked into her expressive eyes. “I find I have discovered a happy nugget to the sad tale of my exile to England.”

“Oh? And what is that?”

His thumb rubbed circles across the back of her glove. “I do hope that my time in England will allow me to call on you? That is, if you will allow?”

She raised her eyebrows, eyes twinkling. “I think your time will allow. It is my understanding that you will be staying on the Cavendish estate, in the dowager cottage. My brother-in-law and his Lady Cavendish are seldom in residence but have come to stay for a time. And you are naturally welcome to take all your meals with us, if you’d like.” She looked up shyly into his face. “But yes, I would much enjoy it if you were to call on me.”

Matteo’s grin stretched larger than he would have liked, but it could not be helped. Living in the near proximity to this enchanting woman while she was amenable to him calling on her, taking dinner with her—yes, this would be an enjoyable distraction indeed. And while he was there, he would immediately begin corresponding to France in hopes of his eventual return.

They felt the change in speed immediately as the horses slowed to a stop. “I will see you in Calais, my darling French prince.” Lady Cavendish waved airily to him.