His Wicked Seduction novel Chapter 10

Horatia clung to her dark blue velvet cloak, pulling the ermine lined hood tighter against her face. Charles slapped the ribbons over the backs of the pair of horses, urging them to speed up. They were headed towards Bond Street, where no doubt Audrey had dragged Lucien to do some shopping since Cedric would be busy with other matters.

"Why are you in a hurry, Charles?" She leaned back in the carriage and glanced over her shoulder to check on Ursula, who rode in the back. "We barely rode at all in the park before you insisted we return them to the stables."

When Charles shot a look her way she saw his gray eyes were oddly turbulent, mirroring the stormy winter clouds above their heads. "I just remembered I need to take Audrey to see Avery. He's back in London, you know. I'd be in trouble if I didn't take her out on the Town for the afternoon with him. He does so adore your sister. You are welcome to come." He glanced her way again.

Horatia shook her head. She didn't feel the least bit sociable at the moment.

"You needn't drop me off at home. Ursula and I can hire a hackney to get back."

He scoffed as though affronted at leaving her alone. "Nonsense. I see Lucien up ahead. He's with your sister. I'll have him escort you home." The words came out in an oddly strained manner, as though he was torn on the matter. "You don't mind if I leave you with Lucien?"

"No, I do not. He will see me home safely, just as he's always done." Why she added the last part she wasn't sure, but she felt it necessary to reassure Charles.

Horatia put a gloved hand on his arm. He didn't even seem to notice. "Charles, are you unwell?"

He tensed. "No, I'm well enough. There's much to give me worry these days. Don't fret on my behalf."

She stared at him for a long moment, wondering if she ought to inquire further as to the nature of his distress. Charles was always close-lipped when it came to such things. Her brother always claimed Charles couldn't keep a secret, but Horatia knew better. When it came to matters of the heart, the Earl of Lonsdale could remain silent forever. She turned her attention to the streets again.

When they rolled up next to Lucien and Audrey, Charles called and waved them closer. He then got down to help Ursula off the carriage.

"Lucien, I need you to take Horatia home. Audrey and I have a lunch engagement with Avery, don't we?" He slanted a look at Audrey.

She blinked once before remembrance flashed across her face. "Oh yes!"

Before Lucien could protest, Horatia and her maid Ursula were dumped into his care as Audrey and her maid Gillian usurped her sister's spot on the curricle, and Charles tore off down the street.

"Did Charles just leave you behind so he could take your sister and my brother out for the afternoon?" Lucien asked in almost a stupefied tone.

"It would seem so." Horatia was just as mystified. She blushed when she realized she'd been leaning into him as they watched the curricle drive off. With great reluctance she pushed away, not missing the way his hand lingered at the small of her back, as though he wished to keep her close. A little pang pinched her heart.

Lucien hailed his waiting carriage to take him, Horatia and her maid back to Curzon Street. He helped Horatia inside allowing her the seat facing forward. The carriage leapt into motion before Lucien had properly seated himself and was flung back onto Horatia. She cried out, more from surprise than any pain. He scrambled off her, apologizing profusely.

"Are you quite sure you are all right?" he pressed.

"I'm fine, my lord." She made her tone cool, determined to erase the memory of last night's bruising kiss and fiery touch. "You simply startled me. I'm not nearly as delicate as you seem to believe."

When he grimaced she suspected he was recalling his encounter with her knee. The thought did not displease her.

"Did you have a pleasant time with Audrey?" she asked after an awkward silence.

"Yes, she convinced me to buy her Christmas present early this year."