Rose in Bloom (Sex and the Season 2)

Iris and Lily’s modiste, Madame LeRou, choosing gowns for the wedding. Rose wanted to go alone. She had a servant hitch Begonia to the back of the carriage. Perhaps she would take Kat riding, if the little girl felt up to it. She didn’t fear running into Cameron. He would no doubt be off somewhere else.

Tricia met her outside when the carriage arrived. “My lady,” she said, running to greet her, “Kat is so excited to see you! But I fear I have some unfortunate news.”

“Is anything wrong?”

“No, no, of course not. The unfortunate news is that…well, Cam left this morning. He’ll be gone on errands all day.”

“Because I was coming, no doubt.”

“Yes, I’m afraid so. He’s stubborn as a mule, that one.”

Rose forced a smile, hoping it looked sincere. “My dear, I told you the truth the other day. He doesn’t want to see me. But that won’t keep me from visiting you and Kat.”

“Yes, my lady.”

“Tell me, are you enjoying your new books?”

“Oh yes. I’ve already devoured two of them.”

Rose laughed. “You read like Lily. She can lose herself for hours in a book. Come on.” She linked her arm with the younger girl’s. “Let’s go see that adorable little sister of yours.”

Kat’s eyes danced when Rose entered the cottage. “Lady Rose!” she shouted, running into her arms.

“Dear little Kat,” Rose said, “it’s so good to see you running about.”

“I almost died!”

“Oh my.”

“Kat, don’t frighten Lady Rose,” her mother admonished, coming in from the kitchen. “Good afternoon, Lady Rose.”

“Good afternoon, Mrs. Price. I’m so very glad that everything is well with Kat.”

“As we all are, my lady.”

“Tell me, were the doctors ever able to ascertain the cause of her condition?”

“I’m afraid not. But once the fever broke, she had no more symptoms, so after a few days they let us come home.”

“Do they consider her cured?”

“Yes, at this point they do. But I’ll be walking on pins and needles until I’m comfortable that she won’t become ill again.”

“I understand. But look at her. It’s marvelous to see her back to her old self.”

“Yes, it is.”

“Is there anything I can do for you, Mrs. Price? You are tenants on my sister’s land, and I know the family would like to help in any way they can.”

“No, Cameron would never forgive me if I took any charity, my lady.”

“Goodness, I’m not offering charity. Neighbors help each other, Mrs. Price.”

“We’ve no need of your help at this time.” Mrs. Price’s tone was curt.

“All right. But I hope you won’t hesitate to come to us if that changes.”

“Of course.”