Page 2 of The Labours of Lord Perry Cavendish
“I’m six-foot-two and a half,” he said and wished he could sink through the floor when the dandy laughed. What a fatuous thing to say!
“I can see that,” the dandy said. He stepped forward and held out a gloved hand.
“The Honourable Jonathan Mainwaring at your service.” He winked and added roguishly, “Hopefully.”
Perry gulped. Was the man flirting with him? He wasn’t sure how to react, so he fell back on habit, taking hold of the offered hand and shaking it firmly before saying in a voice that sounded horribly repressed, “Lord Perry Cavendish. Pleased to make your acquaintance.”
Mainwaring blinked and looked down at their hands. “Well, good heavens,” he said. “Don’tyouhave a crushing grip?”
Mortified, Perry dropped Mainwaring’s hand as though it was a burning hot coal.
Mainwaring seemed amused by that, and also rather curious. He stepped closer, making Perry feel oddly panicky.
“You’re Lysander’s friend,” he said. “I’ve heard about you.”
“Yes,” Perry said, his tone positively strangled now. “Our families have been friends forever. And Zander and I went to Fletcherfield together.” He cleared his throat. “School, I mean. Fletcherfield is. A school.”
Oh God.
“Yes, I’ve heard. And I’vealsoheard you both like gentlemen,” Mainwaring said, winking outrageously. He had very pretty eyes, the colour of green wood. Perry was so struck by them that he only seemed to hear the words the man had spoken a few moments later.
…you both like gentlemen…
“Oh—I—I—” Perry stuttered, having not the faintest idea how to reply.
He was absurdly relieved when a new and familiar voice interrupted them.
“Jonny Mainwaring, are you teasing Lysander’s friend?”
Mainwaring started, and Perry turned to see Adam Freeman striding towards them, Zander following in his wake at a slightly slower pace.
Mainwaring’s expression grew contrite. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to offend,” he said, casting an apologetic glance in Perry’s direction. “Only to jest. I do apologise.”
“No need,” Perry mumbled, his face still hot. “I’m not offended.” He flushed again, very conscious that in any other company, he’d have been expected to call out any man who suggested his tastes ran in the direction Jonny Mainwaring had indicated.
“It’s good to see you, Perry,” Adam said.
“Thank you for inviting me,” Perry replied, shaking the hand Adam offered. “Sorry I turned up at such a dashed awkward time of year. Should have thought. Stupid of me.”
Adam patted his shoulder. “Not at all. You’re Lysander’s oldest friend. You’re welcome any time. I hope you know that."
Zander had stepped past Adam to greet Mainwaring, though he did so far less conventionally, leaning forward and kissing the man on the cheek.
“It’s good to see you again, Jonny,” he said warmly as he drew back, still clasping the man’s shoulders as he examined his face. “How are you?”
Mainwaring beamed at him. “All the better for seeing you, my dear. I swear you get more handsome every day.”
Zander released him. “And you look as lovely as ever. Which is not to say that a little peace and quiet won’t do you good.” He smiled. “I’ve had your usual room made up,andI’ve got a surprise for you.”
“A surprise?” Mainwaring echoed, his tone delighted.
“Yes,” Zander said. “There’s a cottage in the grounds—the old owner called it the Shepherd's Hut, which is pure affectation as it was only built a decade ago. When we cleared it out, it struck me that it would be perfect for you to paint in when you visit us, so we’ve aired it, and all the painting equipment you left last time has been put in there. It will be your very own studio.”
Mainwaring’s eyes gleamed with sudden tears.
“Oh, Lysander,” he said. “My dear, you are so very kind. Thank you!” He pulled out a handkerchief and wiped his eyes. “Look at me, being a watering pot!”
Zander chuckled, his gaze warm and affectionate. “Well, I’m glad you’re pleased. Now, why don’t you go and get yourself settled? I’ll have a bath sent up so you can wash and dress before dinner.”