“Yes.” This time it was Dustin who glanced about. “We need to talk alone—your father, you, and I. Let’s return Dagger to his stall and go to your cottage.”
Nicole’s brows drew together in concern. “All right.”
They exchanged nothing more than casual conversation about Stoddard’s preparations for the Derby until the stables were behind them and the cottage was in sight.
“Are you going to tell me what you learned?” Nicole demanded as they neared the entranceway.
“Once we’re inside,” Dustin muttered back. Noting her worried expression, he added, “Everything is fine, Derby. I promise.”
Relief flooded her face.
“I wasn’t exaggerating, you know,” Dustin commented. “Your riding is magnificent. Watching you earlier was like watching a beautiful ballet unfold.”
“Thank you.” She glowed at the compliment. “Coming from you, that means a great deal.”
“Starting tomorrow, you’ll have the benefit of another professional opinion.”
“Who?”
“Raggert, my new trainer. I don’t know if you recall my mentioning him, but he arrives at Tyreham first thing in the morning.”
“I recall.” Nicole scooted up to the door and slipped the key in the lock. Turning, a mischievous spark lit her eyes. “Raggert—wasn’t he referred to you by that incomparable source of information, the earl of Lanston?”
Dustin came to stand beside her, his lips curving into an indulgent grin. “Indeed. As for Lanston, he might be a virtual wealth of information, but he is also sadly lacking in subject matter. Why, I know for a fact that his previous study is out of the running, presently occupied with the blissful process of reforming.”
“I see.” Nicole raised her chin, lifting those incredible amethyst eyes to meet his gaze. “I’m glad to hear that.”
Of their own accord, Dustin’s arms began to reach for her. Forcibly, he checked the motion, clenching his fists at his sides, wanting nothing more than to drag her against him and kiss her senseless.
“Is Raggert’s arrival the reason you returned to Tyreham so quickly?” Nicole asked, easing the door open.
“Ostensibly, yes. Truthfully? No.” Dustin guided her into the cottage, closing the door in their wake. “See how proficient I’ve become with my honesty?”
Another breathtaking smile. “I’m impressed.”
“And I need to be alone with you.”
Concern obliterated the smile. “Very well. I’ll get Papa.”
Dustin shook his head, staying her departure with his hand. “That’s not what I meant. At least not this time.” He drew an unsteady breath. “Nicole, come walking with me later tonight. After we’ve resolved today’s happenings. After the rest of the estate is abed. Just us.”
Warring emotions darted across her face. “I want to,” she admitted softly. “Truly I do. But Papa …”
“I’ll speak with your father. Assuming he agrees, will you come with me? You—not Stoddard. There’ll be no risk. I’ll make sure of it. We’ll stroll the far grounds. No one will see us.” His knuckles caressed her cheek. “I’ll take care of you. I promise.” Lowering his head, he brushed a swift, heated kiss across her lips. “Say yes.”
“Yes.”
His forefinger traced the fine bridge of her nose. “Now you may summon your father.”
Shivering a bit, she nodded, taking a purposeful step backward as if that act alone could sever the currents running between them.
Pausing, she stared up at him.
“Later, Derby,” Dustin vowed, answering the smoky request in her eyes.
Nicole swallowed and turned away. “Papa?” she called in as normal a tone as she could muster. “I’m home. Lord Tyreham is with me.”
“Tyreham?” Nick took the steps two at a time. “You’re back sooner than I expected. What did Sully say? And what happened with Preighbrook?”