Although his hat shaded his face, something dark, like yearning, flashed across his eyes before he averted his gaze. “Your brother was wise to set aside land for a park. It’ll increase the value of his residences, make them more appealing to his tenants.”

“He let me help plant the saplings. I look at the children playing today and imagine them years from now with their own children rollicking about in the shade the trees will provide.”

His gaze came back to her. “You like giving to people, even if you’re not there to see them receiving your gifts.”

The sun had either come closer or she was embarrassed by his words because her cheeks felt as though they were suddenly aflame. “It’s a fault of mine I suppose.”

“I’ve yet to find any fault with you, Miss Trewlove.” His attention swung up to the sky, to the kites floating toward the heavens, and she was relatively certain he was now embarrassed as his cheeks sported a reddish hue.

“That’s not quite true.” She knew he found fault with her hunt for a lord.

He glanced down at her. “No, it’s not.”

“I prefer honesty between us, Mr. Sommersby.”

“Then I find no fault with your company. How’s that?”

It made it her feel as though her entire body was smiling. “I’ll accept it as a compliment.”

With a nod, he turned his attention back to the sky.

“What is your favorite memory of flying a kite?” she asked.

“I’ve never flown one.”

“Never?”

“My parents didn’t allow for such frivolities.”

“It’s not frivolous if it brings joy, helps one relax. You must give it a go.”

“I will either lose hold of it and it will go flying too close to the sun and burn or I shall send it plummeting to the earth where it will crash into a thousand pieces. In either case, it will be of no future use to you.”

“Nonsense. But if it should happen, I can always build another. The wind will fight you and try to steal the kite, but you are lord and master here. I’ll guide you.” Without thought, she stepped in front of him. “Place your hands over mine where they rest on the spindles.”

“Miss Trewlove, I’m not certain this is wise.”