Audrey crossed her arms across her chest. “Actually, that’s exactly what we do. As you were drunk that night, I suggest you also drop this conversation and we never discuss it again,” she said primly.
He frowned. “How do you know I was drunk?”
Audrey spoke without thinking. “I tasted it on your—”
Henry’s warm brown eyes were on hers. Several seconds ticked by.
“Yes?” he asked huskily. “You were saying?”
“I need to return to the workhouse,” she told him, trying to pass by him.
He blocked her path, desperately needing to know she felt the same. “So that’s that?”
She avoided his gaze. “Nothing has changed. I asked that you keep your distance. It was a mistake. That’s all. Let’s leave it that.”
He licked his lips. “And if I don’t want to?”
“You want me to think you’re a cad?” She finally met his gaze, and her eyes burned with fire. “That you have no manners?”
“I sincerely doubt any man would have acted differently had they been given the chance to hold you in their arms,” he said softly.
“Why do have to say such things?”
He shrugged. “I’m stating the obvious.”
“Well, don’t.” She moved past him this time and walked through the cottage to the small hallway.
He followed her outside, where the moon was low with very little light. He looked into her face and knew the conversation was going nowhere.
“If you wish to think that night was a mistake and pretend it didn’t happen, then I will bid you a good evening, Ms. Wakefield,” he said suddenly, and just as quickly as he had appeared, Henry was gone.
&n
bsp; Chapter Fourteen
Audrey waved to her family as her mother stepped off the train and onto the platform, followed by her little sister.
“Audrey,” she said and enveloped her in a warm embrace. The scent of roses filled Audrey’s nostrils.
Audrey hugged her tightly. “Mother! It seems forever since I’ve seen you, though it’s only been a few weeks.”
“The journey was so long. I thought we’d never arrive,” she said tiredly.
“Hello, Lambkin,” Audrey greeted her little sister, who hugged her about the neck.
“I’ve missed you ever so.” Frances sniffed. “I thought you’d forgotten about us.”
Audrey ruffled her hair. “Nonsense. Come. Let’s get a cab. I can’t wait for you to see our new home.”
Audrey had moved her belongings into the cottage the night before and had taken the back bedroom that overlooked the orchards. She was so proud to show off the new cottage, as she was sure her mother and sister would be happy there. She had placed a vase of wildflowers in the parlor and hummed as she worked.
When the cab stopped before the cottage, Frances scampered out and began running about the cottage while Augusta took a long look at the cottage with blank eyes.
“Well, Mother? What do you think?” Audrey asked, watching her reaction.
Augusta sniffed. “It’s very small.”
“It’s perfect for the three of us. Three bedrooms, a small parlor, a dining area, and look at the garden!” Audrey pointed it out. “You can plant those roses you love.”