Page 141 of Rogue of My Heart

He tightened his hold on her arm, his hand coming to rest over hers. “I look forward to our dance and long to hold you in my arms once more.”

Her heart fluttered at his eloquent words. When she glanced at him, the sincerity in his eyes took her breath away. The possibility of losing her heart to him made her throat tighten. She averted her gaze to the flowering bushes they were strolling past and wondered if losing her heart to him would truly be so bad. He was handsome and kind. Strong and witty. Honorable even if foolish, and clearly loyal. She wagered he would make a steady and true husband.

“I had your treasure moved up to the entry hall. Now you can attend it without my having to worry about your safety.”

“You worry about me?” Her words came out whisper-soft.

“Never have I met a lady who charges head first into danger, as you do, Rebecca. I suspect I will never meet another. I admire your fearlessness and determination, but it also frightens me. I’d not have you hurting yourself if I can help it.”

Her defenses crumbled, and she moved closer to his side. “I would hardly be in danger going down to the storage room.”

“Believe me, those stairs are treacherous.” His voice held a teasing lilt.

She stifled a laugh. She’d been terrified for him when she saw him nearly tumble down them. But now the scene proved rather humorous. His expression as he lost his balance with his arms flailing about ran through her mind. A set of steps had bested the skilled soldier. “Indeed they are, she agreed.”

He led her toward an iron bench. “Might we sit for a spell?”

She nodded, then moved to sit. “Father tells me you plan to depart for London. What are your plans for Almerry Castle?” The bench’s cool surface seeped through her skirts as she spoke. The shade of a large lime tree offered cooling shade, and she closed her parasol, placing it across her lap.

“When I first arrived, I was planning to return to London, though I am now considering a more permanent stay.” He settled next to her, angling his body toward hers. “I’m considering restoring the castle and making it my permanent home. I find that Northumberland suits me.”

Her breath caught. “I wish you would not.”

His gaze jerked to her, his expression clouding with hurt.

“I mean to say that I wish you would not restore Almerry. Not that I wish you to leave.”

He blew out a slow breath, his gaze turning curious. “It would not please you to see the castle returned to her former glory.”

“I have always thought of Almerry as a memorial to Sir Ariston and Lady Isabel. Their story found its beginning and end within the castle’s walls. It seems wrong to change Almerry, as it is a testament to their love.” She fidgeted with a fold in her skirt, a touch embarrassed at her admission. “Of course, you own the castle now.” She looked up at him through her lashes. “It is yours to do with as you choose.”

“I have no wish to change the castle.” He placed his hand over hers, stilling it. “I rather like your way of looking at Almerry. I only wish to bring it back to life. I want to stay true to the castle’s original design and finishes.”

“You do?” She bit her lip. “I think Lady Isabel and Sir Ariston would like that.”

“I quite agree.” He looked across the garden toward Almerry in the distance. “As far as I am aware, no one has lived at Almerry since they did. The castle belongs to them. I am but its caretaker for a time and wish to do them proud. They gave me a strong heritage, one any man would be proud of. The least I can do is preserve their beloved home. And I should greatly appreciate your input and guidance.”

“You truly mean it?” Her pulse quickened, her heart leaping with joy.

“I do.” He leaned toward her. “For as long as I live, the castle will remain a monument to Sir Ariston and Lady Isabel. You have my word.”

She tipped her head, and as he leaned closer, her lips parted. He stared into her bright green eyes as he stroked her cheek. “Rebecca, I find myself rather taken?—”

A scream split the surrounding air, causing the hair at the back of Rebecca’s neck to stand up. She gasped in surprise as she sprang to her feet. Camden had jerked away at the sound and hurried toward the scream. Rebecca raced after him, fisting her skirts. “That sounded like Daphne. Something’s wrong.”

Camden did not glance back. He called out, “Stay here.”

Daphne’s screams rant the air anew, causing Rebecca’s anxiety to increase and she ran harder, ignoring Camden’s order. She pushed her legs to pump faster.

Her heart skipped a beat when she came around the corner of the stable. Daphne lay on the ground clutching her leg. Tears streaked her face. Her breaths coming in heavy pants. Camden knelt on the grass, leaning over her.

Rebecca dropped to her knees beside them. “What happened?”

“I f-fell from m-my horse,” Daphne said, her face contorting in pain.

Camden brushed Daphne’s hair away from her face. “There now. Everything will be all right.” He glanced at Rebecca. “I sent the stable boy after the horse.”

Rebecca nodded, worry creasing her brow. “We have to get her inside and send for the physician. You carry her in. I will run ahead and send someone to fetch the doctor.” She turned to the maid who had followed her. “Go ahead of us and turn down Lady Daphne’s bed.”