It seemed the most natural thing in the world to offer his arm and have her wrap both of hers around it, fairly snuggling up against him. As he led her toward the tree, he kept his steps small and realized it had become a habit for him to do so whenever they walked together. How many other aspects of his life were dictated by his desire to ensure she always felt comfortable in his presence? How often did he do something simply because he knew it would please her?

How was he going to feel when a gentleman called on her, not for a cup of tea, but for a stroll in the park? He didn’t want to think of her arm intertwined with another’s. Didn’t want to contemplate her gazing up into another’s eyes.

When they reached the tree, she eased away from him and together they spread out the blanket. After they’d settled on the wool, he opened the wicker basket.

“Are you truly going to make tea?” she asked.

With a grin, he pulled out a bottle of red wine. “No, too much trouble.”

As she laughed, she untied the ribbon on her bonnet, removed the hat from her head, and set it down near her side. He handed her a glass. “Proper stemware.”

“I didn’t think you’d like drinking from the bottle.” He brought out a platter and removed the cloth covering it. “It appears we also have some cheese, bread, apples, and grapes.”

“Did Mrs. Bennett prepare all this?”

“She did.” Stretching out on his side, he rested on an elbow. “I didn’t realize she couldn’t read until I saw her at your class. I don’t know how she manages her household.”

She studied her wineglass for a moment. “I think people who can’t read find a way to remember things. My mum was never a very good reader. She had a basic understanding of most of the letters, I think, but she still struggles. Yet she raised six children. And we’ve all turned out fairly well.”

“Is she the reason you teach reading?”

She nodded. “I hope to have an actual school for adults in a building, very much like the ragged schools. Not only to teach them reading but to introduce them to some skills that might help improve their income, their lives. I just have to secure a husband willing to embrace all I hope to accomplish.”

“It’s all worthwhile. I’m sure you won’t have any trouble there.”

“I can only hope.” Reaching out, she snatched up a small chunk of cheese and popped it into her mouth. “I’m curious. How did you become a gentleman of means? How do you make your way?”