Warmth cascaded through her veins, the promise of more kisses from Kit like a fever in her blood. She snuck a glance at him and was surprised to find him staring at her. Blinking, she frowned and moved her gaze to the table. Was he mad? They needed to avoid looking at each other so as to not arouse suspicion.

The risk of getting caught was already high enough, and there were just three days left before she returned to New York. To her life of dancing and balls and small talk. To finding a husband who might possibly want her for her. She wasn’t ready, not yet. Hence why these lessons with Kit were so important.

“Anyone know how Maddie is feeling?” Lydia Hartwell, a young woman from out West, leaned in. “It’s too bad she couldn’t join us.”

Katherine Delafield sat next to Alice, which was how Alice noted the worry on the other woman’s face. “She seemed fine before lunch. I cannot understand what would have happened to make her miss this.”

A noise sounded from Kit’s end of the table. “Oh, can’t you?” The edge of his mouth quirked, making him look mischievous. “No guesses at all, Miss Delafield?”

Katherine chewed her lip. “Absolutely none.”

Why was Katherine concerned about Maddie? And what did Kit know about it?

Oh, Katherine was supposed to have her picnic with Mr. Archer today. What with all the kissing in Kit’s room, Alice had forgotten about it. She angled closer to Katherine. “How was your picnic lunch?”

“I didn’t go,” Katherine whispered. “Nellie and I thought . . . well, I backed out at the last minute and left Maddie alone with Mr. Archer.”

“I see. You were matchmaking.”

“Exactly. Everyone can see they are perfect for one another.”

Hadn’t Alice said as much to Kit? “I suspect the duke’s arrival might muck up the works.”

“True, but I have faith that destiny will prevail. Which means, dear Alice, a duke will soon be up for grabs.” Katherine elbowed Alice’s arm meaningfully.

“You and Lockwood would make a striking couple,” she said.

“I meant you. I have no interest in Lockwood.”

“You don’t?”

“Goodness, no. I spent enough time traveling around England to know I’d never want to live there. And being a duchess would be so . . . restrictive. I like my freedom, thank you very much.” As if she’d revealed too much, she added, “But you shouldn’t let my feelings color your future. One can hardly do better than a duke—and a handsome duke, at that. I think you should pursue him, once Maddie and Mr. Archer are official.”