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“Apleasantone, I hope,” she returned with that innocent smile of hers.

James felt alive.Trulyalive. Animated and at ease.

“It is always apleasureto be in your company, Lady Diana,” he said mischievously. But then he added earnestly, “A real pleasure.”

It was probably enough for Diana, who nodded in understanding. The teasing was over. He came in peace.

It was just as well, for James realized that her brother was right there while they exchanged innuendos and was studying them.

Since James had already concluded that Herbert was not a fool, the best course of action was to dampen the fire that raged inside him.

Herbert showed him to the living room, and James fought the temptation to take the seat right next to Diana. He did the next best thing as he made himself comfortable in an armchair that offered him a splendid view of her.

“I hope I am not interrupting some family matter,” he said.

“You are, but you have my eternal gratitude,” Herbert replied with an amused smile. “I understand that you are an only child?”

“That is correct.”

“Truly blessed, then.” Diana beat her brother to it.

The two siblings exchanged a glare that dripped with hate on the surface but spoke of unconditional love. If only James had siblings to share his loneliness with…

“Ah, blessed, indeed, Lord Crawford, to have quiet afternoons to yourself without impromptu visits regarding your well-being,” Herbert sighed.

“I asked you once—once—if you were eating properly, and you acted as if I had dragged you to the gallows,” Diana protested.

“That’s because your concern sounded more like an interrogation.”

“I was thorough.”

“Counting my bites?”

“I should let you starve, then.”

“I am capable of feeding myself.”

James let out a low laugh, watching them with an amused glint in his eyes.

“At least my suffering brings some amusement to Lord Crawford.”

“Because other than that, you are not amusing at all,” Diana hissed.

“I see now why you’ve developed such sharp wit, Wilkins.” James chuckled. “A man does not grow up with Lady Diana as a sister and survive without learning some form of self-defense.”

“I might need a moment to decide whether to be offended or flattered, My Lord,” Diana said.

Both men smiled at her boldness and looked at each other with shared admiration.

“I am glad I came by to offer some assistance, Wilkins.” James smirked.

“Treason!” Diana huffed, feigning annoyance. “I thought I had gained an ally.”

“You did,” James assured her smoothly. “But, My Lady, I am merely playing fair. You outmatch your brother so effortlessly, I felt some mercy was warranted.”

“I know it might cost me financially,” Herbert teased, “but I withdraw my invitation.”

“A grave punishment for simply stating the truth.” James smiled. “I am sure you are only jesting.”