Page 6 of The Taming of the Countess

CHAPTER SIX

E vangeline knew she was in trouble. She’d forgotten how easy it was to talk to Lord Penford. Around him, she’d always been able to be herself. But what good was it? He didn’t want a wife, and she didn’t want a husband.

Or, at least, she didn’t want any of the men who had offered for her.

Even after the earl had left and she’d spent the rest of the day with Dasher curled up and purring on her lap, it was difficult to stop thinking of Penford. When he’d stood beside her while she was trying to shoot her pistol, she’d been entirely aware of how wonderful he smelled. She could easily have buried her face in his neck while she imagined him holding her close.

And worse, last night, she’d dreamed of him. She’d remembered the devastatingly arousing sensation of his mouth upon hers, his tongue sliding inside. She awakened in the morning, her body aching with need for something she didn’t understand.

Nothing had changed between them. James still didn’t want a wife, and she wasn’t about to let herself fall in love again. Not with a man who didn’t want her. Inwardly, she steeled her defences and decided she needed a distraction.

Her head was in a muddle, so she’d sent a note to Lily this morning, asking her if she could come over. Perhaps, they could walk their dogs in Rotten Row. Annabelle was getting entirely too fat. At first, she’d wondered if her cocker spaniel had somehow got pregnant. But how? The dog usually went outside into their garden, and every time she’d gone for a walk, she had been on a lead. No, it was probably Annabelle just eating too much and lying around. It might do them both good to get some exercise.

Evangeline led Lily inside their townhouse and thanked her for coming over. Lily had adopted a stray dog not long ago, and she’d named him Sebastian. The dog appeared delighted to visit, and he sniffed at the carpet, his tail wagging as if it were the best day of his entire life.

From the moment they entered the sitting room, Sebastian grew excited. He pulled hard on the lead, struggling to reach Annabelle. But the cocker spaniel eyed him with suspicion, and Sebastian crouched low with his tail in the air, desperate to play.

‘I think we should take them both for a walk now, don’t you?’ Evangeline suggested. She fastened a collar and leash around her dog’s head and teased, ‘Annabelle is quite fat, and I’ve no doubt it was caused by sitting and eating all day long.’

But the truth was, she longed to get out of the house to clear her head. She was starting to feel those same feelings again for James. Whenever he was around, something inside her went soft. And that had to stop.

Before they could go, her father blocked the doorway. ‘And just where d’ye think you’re going, Evangeline?’

Of course , she thought. Overprotective, as always .

She ventured a smile. ‘Lily and I are taking Sebastian and Annabelle for a walk.’

And then I’m going to decide how to rid myself of these useless feelings for Lord Penford.

Sebastian sniffed at Annabelle’s backside before he trotted over to Evangeline’s father and rolled to his back, exposing his belly.

A smile creased Cain’s mouth. ‘You’re a braw lad, aren’t you, dog? A fine animal indeed.’ Then he turned back to Evangeline. ‘Your mother told me that Thomas Kingford, Viscount Burkham, intends to pay a call on you this afternoon. She’s wanting you to stay.’

No. Not another one. Evie grimaced as she fumbled for an excuse. ‘Lord Burkham was once betrothed to Rose. Have you forgotten? He abandoned her when she was ill.’ How could they even consider asking her to consider marriage to the man who spurned one of her dearest friends? It was better to send him away, like all the others.

‘Aye,’ her father acknowledged. ‘But your mother said he isn’t so bad.’

‘He’s a fortune hunter, and I will not let him court me,’ Evangeline insisted. ‘Not to mention, Mrs Everett has sunk her claws into him. She intends for him to wed her daughter. Good riddance, I say.’

From the nod on her father’s face, it seemed he agreed. ‘If you wish to never marry, that’s all right with me, lass.’ Then he added, ‘What of you, Lily? Have you decided upon a husband as of yet?’

‘I’ve had an offer from Lord Arnsbury,’ Lily confessed with a smile. ‘I am thinking about it.’

She what? Evangeline’s mouth dropped open. ‘Do you mean to say that Matthew asked you to wed, and you didn’t tell me? You let me go on about dogs when your life is about to change?’ Although she knew Lily had been in love with the Earl of Arnsbury for years, she hadn’t realised the man had offered for her. It seemed that the earl was ready to try again, despite all the years they’d been apart. Her heart warmed at the thought of their reunion.

But Lily didn’t look as overjoyed as she’d imagined. ‘I haven’t said yes, Evangeline.’

‘Oh, but you will.’ It didn’t matter what her own thoughts were about marriage; Lily loved Arnsbury, and Evangeline only wanted happiness for her. She looped her arm in Lily’s and smiled at her father. ‘Please give Mother my excuses. Lily and I must be off now so I can learn everything and talk her into the marriage.’ She tugged upon the leash, but her dog planted herself firmly upon the floor and refused to budge. In exasperation, Evangeline picked Annabelle up.

‘Take a footman with you,’ Cain warned. ‘And be back within two hours, or I will come to collect you.’

‘So, we shall.’ Evangeline kissed him on the cheek. ‘Though we both know you will send three men to guard us. Goodbye, Father.’

Lily gave a slight tug on the leash for Sebastian to join them, and the dog trotted behind, his tail wagging.

‘Thank you so much for coming to call,’ Evangeline breathed. ‘I know Mother means well, but I have no desire to let Lord Burkham court me. The man is empty-headed and not at all suited to me.’ She waited for Lily to step inside the carriage before she placed Annabelle at her feet. ‘Now tell me everything about Lord Arnsbury. Leave nothing out.’

She genuinely wanted her friend to find joy. It had warmed her heart to see Rose married, and she wanted the same for Lily. But as she listened to Lily talking about her marriage proposal, a sudden loneliness slipped beneath Evangeline’s skin.

I won’t ever have that same happiness , she thought.

There was a part of her that envied her friends for falling in love. It was easy to be enthusiastic for them and share in their happiness. But her own heart remained empty. It didn’t matter that she had been enamoured with James and had wanted to marry him—he had never felt the same way. She refused to humiliate herself again by daring to risk her heart with him. They could be friendly to one another, but there was an invisible wall of iron that she’d built around her heart when it came to the earl.

No, she wouldn’t have the babies she wanted or a loving marriage. But she could create her own contentment by helping others. That would fill up the loneliness inside, and it would have to be enough.

When they reached Rotten Row, the carriage slowed to a stop, and Evangeline kept a bright smile on her face that she didn’t truly feel. But she wasn’t about to spoil Lily’s moment.

She disembarked with the help of a footman, but when she set Annabelle down upon the pathway, the dog lay down on the ground and did nothing. Evie let out a heavy sigh. This was going to be a terrible walk. She was going to have to carry her dog, it seemed. Sebastian, in contrast, was eager to be off, after being confined indoors for so long.

More than anything, Evie wanted to walk swiftly, to feel a breeze against her cheeks. Lily’s dog might give her that chance. ‘Would you care to trade your dog for mine?’ she suggested. ‘Mine has become terribly lazy.’

In answer, Lily held out her leash. Evie took it from her, while Lily picked up the cocker spaniel for a closer look. ‘Evangeline, I believe Annabelle—’

Before Lily could finish her sentence, Sebastian jerked to attention and began sniffing the ground. Evangeline struggled with the leash while the dog pulled hard on the lead towards a gentleman. ‘Oh, dear!’ She tried to settle him down, but he moved sideways and tore his way free of her grasp.

Evie seized her skirts and hurried to retrieve Sebastian. The dog had already jumped up with his paws on the gentleman’s waist.

Lily kept Annabelle in her arms and joined her, calling out, ‘Stop it, Sebastian!’

But the dog was already licking the hands of a tall blond gentleman. A very handsome gentleman, if Evangeline were honest with herself. He looked familiar, and she was certain she remembered him from somewhere.

‘My goodness,’ she breathed, as she stopped running and touched her heart. How embarrassing. She should have kept a firmer grip upon the leash, and now the dog’s paws were getting the gentleman’s coat dirty.

When she took a closer look, she still couldn’t quite place where she had seen the man before. Yes, he was quite attractive—but she kept comparing him to Lord Penford, which wasn’t really fair. The gentleman laughed and petted Sebastian’s head, rubbing his ears.

He gave the dog something from his pocket and then turned to them. ‘Now there’s a good boy.’

Evangeline took a step back while Lily was apologising for Sebastian’s behaviour. She didn’t appear pleased to see the man, as if something had made her uncomfortable. Now why would that be? Had they met before?

The gentleman tipped his hat. ‘Lady Lily.’

So, he did know her. Interesting. The awkwardness between them seemed to worsen, and Evangeline questioned whether she should say or do anything. She took Annabelle from Lily but didn’t say anything to the gentleman. And Lily made no effort to introduce her, which made it even more uncomfortable.

Evie rather felt like an unwanted chaperone. Maybe it was better if she let them talk without interfering. The dog seemed quite happy around the gentleman, his tail wagging furiously.

Evangeline took another step backwards, letting them have their conversation. She glanced behind her for the footmen, and it was then that she saw Lord Dunwood strolling towards them. Oh, no. This was not what she needed right now—especially when Lily was preoccupied with the gentleman.

Evie decided she had two choices—she could either stand with Lily and pretend to be part of the conversation—which would be terribly intrusive. Or she could hide. The viscount was walking closer, and she couldn’t bear the thought of seeing him again. It didn’t appear that he’d seen her yet, thank goodness.

Evie glanced behind her, and her footmen were approaching with a curious expression. She shook her head at them and waved them back. The last thing she wanted was for them to draw attention, which would only gain Lord Dunwood’s notice.

In desperation, she kept Annabelle in her arms and ducked inside a large weeping willow tree. She remained surrounded by the long branches, fully hiding herself.

No, it wasn’t dignified. And probably she was behaving like a coward. But the last few times she’d been around Lord Dunwood, she’d felt threatened. It seemed as if every time she attended a family ball, he was there. Whenever she went out shopping with her mother or her friends, he was nearby. Perhaps it was only a coincidence, but it was starting to feel as if he was always watching her, which she didn’t like at all.

She was truly going to have to do something about the viscount. He wasn’t taking no for an answer. It seemed that James was right—she might need her father’s help in dissuading him.

Lord Dunwood passed by Lily and the gentleman but didn’t stop to speak with them, thankfully. In the meantime, Annabelle was perfectly content to relax upon Evie’s skirts. She petted her dog, still wondering if the rolls of fat were somehow puppies. It was possible, though she still didn’t understand how Annabelle could have escaped.

She waited a few more moments until Lord Dunwood was gone before she extricated herself from the willow tree and joined Lily again.

‘I will miss him desperately,’ she heard her friend say. ‘I can’t bear the thought of going home without him.’

Wait a moment. She remembered that Lily had found the stray dog only a few weeks ago. Was this the dog’s true owner? How was that possible?

Evangeline hung back and heard the gentleman continue, ‘Lady Lily, I am most thankful for your good care of my Louis. If I may pay a call upon you from time to time, perhaps I might bring him to visit?’

‘Yes, of course.’

But Evie didn’t miss the tears in Lily’s voice. Was she truly planning to just let her dog go off with the stranger? Lily leaned down and hugged the dog, unable to stop her tears when he licked her face. She ruffled his furry ears and stood. ‘I would like to see him to know that he is well.’

The gentleman took her gloved hand and held it for a moment. ‘And I would like to know that you are well.’ With a slight smile, he added, ‘Our fathers were such good friends, after all.’

Evangeline couldn’t stop the gasp that came out of her. What was this? What was happening? Why was Lily even having this conversation? She was supposed to marry the love of her life, the Earl of Arnsbury. He’d offered for her, and Lily simply had to say yes.

It took an effort to close her mouth from the shock.

‘Until we meet again.’ The gentleman released her fingers and turned back on the pathway with Sebastian trotting at his side.

Evangeline returned to her side, and it was then that she saw the silent tears running down her friend’s face. A bit of relief filled her when she realised Lily was crying over her dog—not the gentleman. ‘I’m so sorry, Lily.’

Her friend blinked back her tears. ‘So am I.’

‘Who was that?’ Evangeline asked. ‘I suppose he is handsome, but how do you know him?’

Lily shook her head. ‘He is Lord Davonshire. And he just took my dog.’

Evangeline put her arm around her friend. ‘Then we’ll have to find a way to get him back.’ She picked up Anna-belle and was about to return to her carriage when she turned and saw that Lord Dunwood had turned back and was staring at her. It seemed that he hadn’t left, after all. And the possessive look in his eyes made her worry about his intentions.

She had to take stronger actions to dissuade him. And whether that meant feigning interest in another suitor or asking help from Lord Penford—the outcome was the same. She wanted Lord Dunwood to leave her alone, once and for all.

* * *

The moment James entered the ballroom with his sister, his gaze was drawn to Evangeline. She had changed her appearance once again, and this time, he couldn’t take his eyes off her.

Instead of wearing a ball gown the colour of mouse fur or horse dung, she had chosen a deep rose silk. Around her throat she wore a chain of diamonds, and two tiny pink roses were tucked into her black hair. She looked exquisite, and it made him wonder why she had transformed herself from a shrew into a debutante. What had made her change? He escorted Lily to her side but said nothing beyond a quiet greeting. Then he gave a slight bow before he stepped back to let the two women converse.

Evangeline glanced at him before her expression turned calculating. ‘How do I look?’ she asked Lily. ‘Will Lord Davonshire notice me, do you think?’

Davonshire? James vaguely recalled that his father had once tried to set up a match between the man and Lily. But why did Evangeline want to be noticed by him?

He knew the two women had walked their dogs yesterday, and Lily had learned that the stray dog she’d rescued had belonged to another gentleman. Was Davonshire the owner? James frowned, uncertain about what was going on.

‘You look beautiful,’ Lily told her.

He had to agree with his sister. Evangeline’s cheeks were flushed, her eyes bright. But it was more than beauty—this time, he felt the sense of mischief, as if she were up to something. And for whatever reason, she hadn’t told him what it was about.

‘Will he be here this evening, do you think? Lord Delicious, I mean.’

Delicious? Really? Evie glanced over at him, and her smile was indeed taunting. So, she was doing this on purpose.

He responded with his own look of disapproval. Evangeline Sinclair was most definitely plotting something, and he couldn’t tell what this was about. She wasn’t behaving like herself at all. He left the pair of them alone while he overheard her gushing about Lord Davonshire. He had no desire to listen to Evie fawning over another man.

A strange thought occurred to him. Was she trying to make him jealous? It wasn’t hard to imagine that most gentlemen would be fascinated with Evangeline Sinclair tonight, as beautiful as she looked. But when he met her gaze with his own, he remembered kissing the line of that delicate throat, tasting her skin. And he couldn’t stop thinking of the way she had responded to him when he’d run his hands through that dark hair as he lowered his mouth to her flesh.

Even now, he couldn’t deny that he was drawn to her, wanting her. It was a good thing she understood that he didn’t intend to marry. And yet, he wondered if she had changed her mind. The gown she wore accentuated her curves, and the soft rose made her dark hair stand out. She was bound to attract a great deal of notice, and an inner instinct warned him to protect her.

But when he turned around, he saw Lord Dunwood standing behind him, a look of fury on the man’s face.

So that’s what this was about. Evangeline’s conversation with Lily was meant for the viscount to overhear, probably to deter him from courtship. James walked past the man, noting the possessive look on his face when he eyed Evangeline. It seemed that the man still didn’t under-stand the word no.

He paused a moment and glanced back at Dunwood. The man irritated him and not just because he refused to accept Evangeline’s rejection. Evie deserved someone who respected the brilliant young woman she was, not a man who saw her as a wealthy dowry to acquire.

And damned if he’d stand aside and let Dunwood bother her.

It didn’t matter that it wasn’t his place to interfere with her life—he simply refused to stand back and let anyone hurt Evie. She was too important to him.

Lord Dunwood moved closer to the women, and James instinctively shadowed him. He kept a slight distance, but he watched as the man approached Evie. Before the viscount reached her side, James saw Adrian Monroe, asking her to dance. For a moment, Evie seemed startled by the invitation. He vaguely recalled that she didn’t get along well with the man, even though they were distantly related. It was clear that she intended to refuse, but Lily interrupted. ‘Of course, she would. Enjoy yourself, Evangeline.’

The bewildered expression on Miss Sinclair’s face suddenly relaxed when she seemed to realise that dancing with Mr Monroe removed her from Lord Dunwood’s presence.

The viscount appeared frustrated, but when he turned around, he was facing James. ‘Penford.’ The greeting was muttered as a courtesy, but it was clear he didn’t like being in his company.

James felt the instinctive need to give the man a warning. ‘I understand that you’re courting Evangeline Sinclair,’ he said smoothly.

There was no reaction upon Dunwood’s face. It was as if James had spoken of the weather. ‘What of it?’

‘She has made it quite clear that she does not intend to marry. You would be better off courting a young lady who wishes to wed.’

The viscount laughed softly. ‘Miss Sinclair does not know what she wants. She is a spoiled, indulgent heiress who has been insufferably rude.’

James considered whether to drag the man outside to beat him senseless or strike him right now. But before he could act, Dunwood continued. ‘She is high-spirited, a woman in need of taming. Wouldn’t you agree?’

‘Not at all.’ He let his voice go low and dark. He took a step closer and warned, ‘Stay away from her, Dunwood. Miss Sinclair has refused you many times. Her no is final.’

The viscount smiled, but before he could walk away, James seized his jacket and gripped it hard. ‘I know you heard me.’

‘Take your hands off me, Penford.’

‘Stay away from Evangeline Sinclair.’ He released the man but kept his face rigid. If they hadn’t been in a ballroom, he would gladly have bloodied the man’s face.

Dunwood’s expression was murderous as he walked away. James never took his eyes off the man, and he intended to have words with Evie’s father. Between the two of them, they would keep her safe.

She’s not your concern , his conscience warned.

And yet, he didn’t care. Dunwood needed to get the message.

Finally, Mr Monroe escorted Evangeline back, and James wanted her to know what had happened. ‘Miss Sinclair, might I have a word?’

She thanked Mr Monroe for the dance and then turned to him. ‘About what?’

Just then, he spied a matron walking towards him with her three daughters. It was clear that she intended to introduce them to him. ‘Dance with me a moment, and I’ll tell you.’

‘Now, why would I want to rescue you from the approaching matchmaking mama?’ she teased.

‘It’s about Lord Dunwood,’ he said, and her smile faded. Though she didn’t at all seem enthused about dancing, she did take his arm and let him lead her into a waltz.

The moment he pressed his hand to her waist, James was taken aback by memories. The scent of Evie’s skin allured him, and he wanted to lean in and inhale the soft floral perfume of her. Or was that the roses she’d tucked in her hair? It didn’t matter, he decided. But he was starting to realise that he needed to put distance between them. Evangeline was far too tempting.

‘So, what is this about?’ she asked. ‘Lord Dunwood knows I will never wed him. I’ve said it many times.’

‘He’s quite motivated by your dowry,’ James said.

‘And so are all the others. What of it? I’ve told them no.’

‘Have you?’ he mused. ‘What of Lord Delicious? Wasn’t that what you called him? Do you intend to tell him no?’ He’d never heard her speak of any gentleman that way—and he wanted to know if there was any truth to it. Had she changed her mind? ‘Has Lord Davonshire caught your eye?’

A slight blush coloured her cheeks. ‘I was only teasing Lily,’ she confessed. ‘A man like Davonshire wouldn’t even notice someone like me.’

‘You’re wrong,’ he answered. ‘Every gentleman in this ballroom notices you.’

She stared at him as if she couldn’t believe what he’d said. ‘Not for the right reasons.’

But it was the truth. There was a different quality about her, a quiet confidence that drew him closer. He liked the fact that she spoke her mind.

For a moment, she fell silent while he danced with her. He kept his gaze fixed upon hers, even though it wasn’t a good idea. But he studied those deep blue eyes, the soft lips he’d tasted, and that dark hair he wanted to unravel. Any man would be fortunate to win Evie’s heart.

But they wouldn’t deserve her.

‘The right one will.’ Before she could respond, James forced himself to turn their conversation back to the true reason why he’d asked her to dance.

‘I need you to stay away from Lord Dunwood.’ He leaned in closer to her face. ‘Do not ever let yourself be alone with him, for I suspect he may try to ruin you or force you into marriage. He’s dangerous.’ His hand moved to her spine and pressed it gently. ‘Don’t let him call on you again.’

Evangeline’s face paled as she met his gaze. For a moment, he glimpsed her fear before she stiffened in his arms. The dance ended, and she seemed to gather her courage. ‘Thank you, Lord Penford, but you needn’t trouble yourself on my account. I can take care of myself.’

With that, she curtsied and stepped away from him, turning her back on him.

She was right. If he tried to protect her from Dunwood, the gossip would spread. It was best if he warned her father; no doubt Cain Sinclair would guard his daughter fiercely.

He walked towards the opposite side of the room and was startled to see Lily and Matthew standing together. His friend had slowly begun to attend gatherings during the past few weeks, though mostly he remained on the outskirts while Lily remained steadfast and faithful to him.

His sister really did love him. And James supposed he was starting to forgive Matthew for ruining her. The earl had offered for Lily, and it was possible that she might be able to heal his wounds—even those unseen—in time.

James couldn’t say the same for himself. He didn’t deserve forgiveness, for he bore the guilt for all of it. Had it not been for him, Matthew never would have come to India—more likely, he’d have married Lily. They might have even had a child by now.

He was starting to set aside his anger and accept that his sister and Arnsbury were indeed a match. He could see the way Matthew watched over her, guarding her in silence. They deserved his blessing, even if he wasn’t happy about the way his friend had ruined her.

James studied the pair of them, noticing the way his sister looked at his friend as if he had created the moon and stars. There had been a time when Evie had looked at him in that way. But not any more.

He deserved to be alone, as his own self-imposed punishment. He would help his sisters, be there for his family as best he could, and endure his penance. If his sisters had sons, one of them could inherit. He simply couldn’t see himself as a husband or a father. A dark memory caught him in his gut, of all his failures when he’d been a captive. He’d failed his friend, and he’d unknowingly abandoned his mother and sisters during their time of need. What right did he have to be happy with a family of his own? It seemed impossible. He could never be the sort of man a child would look up to. Not after all that had happened.

He was about to cross the room towards Lily and Matthew when suddenly, he saw his mother. He hadn’t known she would be here tonight. But as soon as he looked closer, he realised Iris was having one of her spells again. She was visibly upset and wore a necklace of daisies around her neck to adorn her mourning gown. But before he could go and help, Lily and Matthew were already at her side, gently speaking to her.

So much had changed in the two years he’d been away. He’d wanted to believe that time would heal the wounds of his mother’s mind. But it seemed she was as broken as he was.

With a sigh, James turned back to the ball, wondering whether to leave. But even now, he couldn’t quite turn his attention away from Evangeline. With every ball he attended, James found himself searching for a glimpse of her. He’d wanted to see what outrageous gown she would wear or what she would say to people.

And he was afraid that curiosity would only lead towards expectations he could never fulfil.

He was beginning to think he should return to Penford for a time, to give their mother a chance to grieve and so he could keep his distance from Evangeline. The last thing James wanted was to break her heart again.

Evie deserved love and marriage, even if he couldn’t be the man to give those to her. A tightness caught within his gut at the thought of leaving London. But he knew it was time to stop thinking about her and let her go.

One month later

Evangeline set down her embroidery, let out a sigh, and glanced over at the hearth where Annabelle slept contentedly beside her puppies. It seemed that even her dog had found time for a stolen romance while her own life was plagued with fortune hunters.

Christmas was swiftly approaching, and she admitted to herself that it had been terribly lonely while Lily was away. And James , her conscience nudged, though she swiftly pushed that thought away.

It didn’t matter what she’d once felt for him. It was clear enough that there was no future between them, so why bother? Better to guard her heart and ignore what was never meant to be.

She’d written a few letters to her friends, but she was starting to realise how awful it would be once Lily married Matthew. She would be completely and utterly alone. Letters weren’t at all the same. And it wasn’t as if she could write to James. Nor did she want to, she reminded herself.

She pretended to study the linen handkerchief in front of her while her mother and aunt were gossiping. Her aunt Amelia had asked her to join them, claiming that she needed something from her, but Evie hardly cared what it was. Her mind was running through the latest profits she’d seen from Aphrodite’s Unmentionables. The idea of having garments ready to wear had been well received, and she was already imagining ways to expand it.

But even using that money to help orphanages and the poor didn’t ease the emptiness inside her.

In Rose’s last letter, her friend had shared the news that she was with child. It should have brought a thrill of happiness within her. Instead, Evie felt the tug of jealousy. Despite her resolve to find contentment in being a spinster, there was a tiny part of her that still wanted a family of her own.

Her aunt was speaking to her, and Evie shrugged off the wayward thoughts. ‘What is this about, Aunt Amelia?’

Her aunt’s smile brightened, and she set down her pencil from where she’d been sketching. ‘Margaret told me that you don’t wish to be married, but I’ve heard your name mentioned along with Lord Davonshire.’

Oh. They were matchmaking again. Evie dismissed the idea. ‘He’s interested in Lily, not me.’ And that didn’t matter either, since she knew full well that her friend intended to wed Arnsbury.

‘But you liked him?’ her aunt pressed. ‘I understand he’s quite handsome.’

Evangeline prayed to the angels above that someone would save her from this inquisition. If anyone enjoyed matchmaking, it was her aunt.

‘Oh, there’s no doubt of that,’ she agreed. ‘But although he is very attractive, I could tell his interest was elsewhere.’ Her aunt’s eyes gleamed, and Evie knew she had to dispel that thought away. ‘He never even noticed me,’ she finished.

‘I see.’ Amelia picked up her pencil and began drawing again. ‘You wouldn’t want someone like him, then.’

Please stop , she prayed silently. But she forced her voice to remain calm and collected. ‘No. I’m content to be a spinster. Have there—’

‘And what of Lord Penford? Is he still as awful as ever?’

A terrible, unwanted blush spread over her cheeks, and she repeated her prayer for help. God, apparently, wasn’t listening.

‘Well, he—I don’t know if I would say awful,’ she hedged. ‘But we’re not suited at all.’ Penford had been quite clear that he didn’t intend to marry. She didn’t truly understand why. As an earl, he had a duty to wed and sire an heir. But the earl remained steadfast in his refusal. Once again, she was convinced it was because of his travels in India. There were shadows in his eyes, and James didn’t really tease anyone any more. The carefree young man he’d been had disappeared.

There were so many mysteries around his journey—but she didn’t feel comfortable asking him or Lily about it. If it truly had been that terrible, she didn’t want him to relive those days.

He was home again and safe. One day, he might find a reason to smile again, a way to push back the shadows. But in the meantime, it was better to leave him alone. If she dared to get too close, she would only fall in love with him again. And she wasn’t about to let her heart shatter a second time.

Her thoughts were interrupted when a knock sounded at the door. ‘You have a caller, Miss Sinclair,’ the footman announced to Evangeline. ‘Lord Penford is here to see you.’

Penford was here? Now, why would the earl come to pay a call?

Her aunt Amelia had a smug expression, and she smiled at her sister. Evie was starting to think that the pair of them had invited the earl. She suppressed a sigh at their blatant attempts at luring Lord Penford.

‘Now why would he be here?’ Margaret wondered aloud. ‘I thought the two of you had parted ways. Clearly, I was wrong.’

‘Put your matchmaking thoughts out of your head, Mama,’ Evangeline warned. She and Aunt Amelia had plotted this together, hadn’t they?

‘Matchmaking is such marvellous fun.’ Aunt Amelia sighed. ‘I’ve already arranged a wedding for dear Lily Thornton and Cousin Matthew. I could easily find a match for you.’

Never mind that Matthew had already proposed to Lily, far earlier. It had nothing to do with her aunt, though Amelia was glad to take credit. And from the gleam in her eye, she fully intended to find a match for Evie.

No. This was a terrible idea. If they brought the earl into the drawing room, it would be utterly humiliating. Her aunt would ask too many questions, and Penford would believe that Evie had wanted him to pay a call.

‘Tell Lord Penford I am not here,’ she said. It was better to avoid the call entirely. At least while there were so many people around.

But her aunt wasn’t listening at all. ‘Show him into the library, Harrison. I will send Evangeline in shortly.’

Were they listening to a single word she said? Clearly not. It seemed she had no choice but to stand her ground. When they ignored her, she saw no choice but to be rude.

‘I have nothing to say to that man,’ she informed her aunt. ‘He is horrid, and I will not be a part of your scheming.’

Lies, lies, lies. James wasn’t horrid at all, but Evie saw no choice but to push back. If she didn’t, her aunt would have them standing before a minister within a fortnight. A lock of hair fell from her chignon, and she shoved it back into place.

‘If you do not see him in the library, I will send for him here,’ her mother said gently. ‘I know Amelia and I would both like to know why he has come. Perhaps to renew his courtship?’

There never was a courtship, despite her girlish dreams, years ago. It was over and done with, and Evie couldn’t imagine how her mother had come up with such an idea. The last time James had paid a call, they had been shooting pistols while they’d discussed an investment opportunity.

Evie tossed her needlework aside and stood. ‘That is the very last reason why he would be here. But if you insist, I will find out and return within one minute.’

She would get rid of Lord Penford, and that would be that. The only problem was that she had to calm the rapid beating of her heart and the surge of anticipation at seeing him again. Because, despite her best efforts to keep him away, he’d been entirely too nice to her. It had barely taken any time at all for her foolish heart to yearn for him again.

And that simply had to stop. She had to firmly dissuade him from any thoughts of friendship.

‘Evangeline, your hair is falling from the pins,’ her mother warned. ‘Take a moment and make yourself presentable.’

She ignored her mother and strode out of the room. Enough of their nonsense. She would find out why he had come and send him away. Better yet, she would drive him away by behaving in the most hostile way she could manage.

Anger and rudeness would become her weapons now. Because if she didn’t shove him away by any means possible, she would undoubtedly fall for him again.

You weren’t enough for him then, and you aren’t now , her brain reminded her.

It was best if she remembered that.

* * *

James waited in the library, and within moments Evangeline stormed into the room. She wore a violet day dress with long sleeves and a narrow waist. Every inch of her was covered, but the gown clung to her form, revealing her curves. Her hair was falling from the pins, and her blue eyes glared at him with murder.

Now, why on earth would she be so furious at him? He hadn’t seen her in a month. Before he could greet her, she demanded, ‘Why are you here, Penford?’

Well, then. The shrew was back, it seemed.

He withdrew a crumpled note from his coat pocket and held out the message that had asked him to come immediately. At the time he’d received the note, he’d suspected it was not from her, but he wanted to know for certain.

She took the note from him and read through it. ‘I did not send this.’ She shook her head and added, ‘Who would have sent this to you? And why?’

‘I don’t know.’ He leaned back and sat upon her uncle’s desk. ‘Especially when it was delivered an hour ago, and we’ve been travelling all day. I thought it best to find out in case something was wrong.’

Beneath her breath, he thought he heard her muttering about meddling, matchmaking aunts. But then she faced him and asked, ‘Why would you care?’

The words were a challenge, and he stared back at her. A good question indeed. He probably should have ignored it. But although he had chosen to let her go, it didn’t mean he didn’t care about her welfare. He wanted her to be safe, and there were plenty of vultures circling her dowry.

Her shoulders lowered a moment later, and she sighed. ‘I apologise. That came out before I could stop myself from speaking.’

I do care , he wanted to say but didn’t.

It would only cause more tension between them. He’d left London with the intent of creating true distance. And yet, he’d come here straightaway without even questioning why. If there had been even the slightest chance that Evie had needed him, he would come. And he didn’t know what that implied.

‘You’re still angry with me,’ he said quietly.

She appeared flustered at his words and tucked another wayward lock of hair behind her ear. ‘You’ve seen for yourself that we are all fine. Just go back home, and we’ll leave it at that.’ She started to walk away, but he caught her hand in his.

Idiot. He knew better than to do this, but he hadn’t been able to stop the urge. Her palm was small within his, her fingers warm. He held her hand a moment as he met her gaze evenly. ‘Regardless of what you believe, Evangeline, I am not your enemy.’

Her expression turned vulnerable for a moment before she masked it with a shield of invisible armour. ‘I know that, Lord Penford. You may return home, and there’s no need to concern yourself with my welfare.’

He wasn’t so certain about that. Someone had tried to bring him here, and although it could have been her aunt and mother, he wasn’t entirely certain. ‘Still, I wonder why anyone sent that note.’

Evangeline pursed her lips in thought, and the gesture reminded him of the warmth of her kiss. Even now, he wanted to touch her waist and draw her close, tasting that mouth again.

He truly needed to do something about those errant thoughts. He missed part of what Evangeline said to him, but she suggested, ‘To draw you away from Lily? Perhaps someone wanted you to leave her alone.’

He hadn’t thought of that. During their month at Penford, despite the fact that he’d wanted his sister to wait before rushing into marriage, Lily had accepted the marriage proposal from Lord Arnsbury. Perhaps the news of their betrothal had made its way to London. He knew Arns-bury’s cousin, Adrian Monroe, had been furious about no longer being the heir after they’d returned from their travels in India.

He’d only met Monroe a time or two, but there was something unsettling about the man.

It was entirely possible that the man might threaten Lily, simply because she was betrothed to Arnsbury. And James would never allow that.

He let out a low curse. ‘I believe you may be right. I should go back.’ He started to walk towards the door but then turned back. ‘I meant what I said. I don’t want to be your enemy, Evangeline.’

He still didn’t understand why she’d been so angry that he’d come to pay a call. It made little sense, since he’d mistakenly believed that they were past all that. Something had stirred her up again, and he didn’t know what it was.

They were on unsteady ground right now, and her eyes held an uncertain emotion as she stared back at him. ‘Take care of Lily.’

He nodded, but something kept him from leaving. He was entirely too distracted by the woman standing before him. And he sensed that he wanted far more from her—more than she could give.

Perhaps it was better to keep his distance. For friendship could lead them down a very different path.