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Reuben had to ignore the little flare of pride that rushed through him. For all he knew, she wanted Cartwright gone so she could ensure there was no competition for his aunt’s wealth.

“As I said, I hope to remedy that.” Reuben heard the smile in Cartwright’s tone. “The country can be a little dull at times. I always welcome a beautiful face and a quick wit.”

“You cannot know if my wit is speedy or slow, Mr. Cartwright. I might very well be the biggest bore you have ever come upon.” Lady Angel glanced around. “In fact, I should be—”

“Angel—” Cartwright stepped closer and reached out, his fingers grazing a curl that framed her face.

Damn it all. Reuben marched out from behind the steps and cleared his throat. For a brief moment, Lady Angel’s face lit with relief until he saw recognition flare behind her eyes and her expression hardened.

Skin hot, muscles tense, Reuben came to stand at Lady Angel’s side. “LadyAngel has duties to which to attend. You are dominating her time.”

Cartwright ran his gaze lazily up and down Reuben. Though Reuben was never one to fall for the latest fashions, his clothes were well-made and cut to fit him perfectly. However, Cartwright gleamed and shone and made Reuben look like a bloody pauper next to him. He could not help wonder if Lady Angel preferred the perfectly put-together look combined with a strong jawline, clear blue eyes, and golden hair that Reuben knew had worked on many a woman.

“Good to see you too, Hunter.” A smile slipped across Cartwright’s lips. “I thought I would call upon your aunt and ensure she was not feeling lonely.”

“She is not lonely by a long shot,” Reuben fired back.

“Well not now she has the lovely Angel here to keep her company.” Cartwright’s gaze skipped up and down her. Reuben saw her stiffen. “But I would be remiss not to visit your aunt. She is delightful company, and I know she appreciates my visits.”

“A visit which I believe is over, is that right?” Reuben moved closer to Angel, inserting himself ever so slightly between the two of them.

“Indeed, I must be going, but I will ensure it is not long until I return.” Cartwright donned his hat. “What can one do when one’s company is so much in demand?” He grinned. “Not that you’d know much about that, eh, Hunter?”

“Actually, my aunt has requested that I stay for a few weeks,” Reuben spilled out.

Cartwright’s upper lip curled. “Well that seems a waste of effort. You live a mere two miles away.”

Angel stepped around Reuben. “You know how fond Mrs. Stone is of Mr. Hunter.”

Reuben glanced at her in surprise and eyed her serene smile.

“She does so love her nephew. Why would she not wish him to be around more frequently?” she continued.

Cartwright swung his gaze between them, a frown puckering his brow. He shrugged slightly then took his jacket from the butler. “Enjoy your stay then, Hunter.” He leaned in. “I know I would,” he murmured and shot a meaningful look at Angel.

Fists bunched, Reuben glared at Cartwright, not moving a muscle until the front door shut behind him. He released his fists and glanced at Angel.

“You should be careful,” he warned. “Mr. Cartwright is a swindler and a cheat.”

“Goodness, those are harsh words,” she said, her lips tilted. “Your aunt seems to like him.”

“My aunt does not know what is good for her.”

“Is that why you are intending to stay?”

He hesitated. What could he say? That he was so maddened by the idea of Cartwright near Angel that he had not been thinking? Or that now he stopped to consider it, it was not such a terrible idea? He could keep an eye on her and ensure she looked after his aunt properly.

Or should he admit that he wanted to spend more time with Lady Angel Templeton?

No. That was not it. He’d be damned if he’d be sucked in by her smiles and laughter like every other fool.

“As I said, I think my aunt would benefit from my company,” he said stiffly.

“I am certain she would enjoy it.” Her smile grew. “But do not fear, Mr. Hunter. We may be but weak and feeble women, but we shall not let any Mr. Cartwrights take advantage of us.”

She bounded off like a child skipping through an overgrown field. He grimaced to himself. Whatever had he done.

Chapter Five