“That’s reaching a little too far, sweet. But I’ll be cordial.”
“That’s all I ask.”
“How could I not be? I got the prize and he didn’t.” Cameron lightly stroked Rose’s abdomen again.
She smiled, chills racing to her core. “That feels nice.” Then, “I’ve been thinking, Cam.”
“About what?”
“Well, I have two mares you know. My favorite is Junie. She’s a beauty, nearly black. The other is a bit younger and gentler. Her name is Nora. I’d like to give her to Kat and teach her how to ride.”
“I can’t let you give Kat a horse.”
“But I want to. You have Apollo, and Tricia has Mary. I’ll have Junie, and Nora is for Kat. We can all go riding together. Won’t that be wonderful?”
“You are wonderful, sweet. You’re the most kind and unselfish person I’ve ever met. Kat will love that.”
“Good.” Rose smiled. “Are you hungry?”
“Famished, actually.”
“I’ll send for a tray and have a bath readied. We have a lot to do today. You should…speak to my father.”
“He’s here?”
“Of course. For the wedding.”
Cameron rubbed his forehead. “Dear God.”
“It won’t be so bad. I’ll go with you.”
“I have nothing to wear, Rose. I can hardly put my formal clothes back on. They’re completely ruined.” He pointed to the heap of garments on the floor.
Rose giggled. “My father is very conventional. He might be impressed if you wear formal attire to speak with him.”
Cam rolled his eyes.
“Don’t worry. I’ll get some clothes from Thomas. You’re about his size.”
“Just don’t tell him where I spent the night.”
“Of course I won’t. You’re of much more use to me in one piece.”
* * * *
After sharing breakfast and bathing each other, Rose and Cameron went downstairs and asked Lily to arrange a meeting with the Earl and Countess of Ashford. With an hour to spare, Cameron led Rose into the conservatory.
“I want to hear you play your song,” he said. “I never did it justice.”
“I can’t believe that,” Rose said. “You play very nicely.”
“I’ve a decent hand is all. I can’t make the piano sing like you can. Please.”
“Of course. I’d do anything for you.” Rose sat down on the cushioned bench and arranged the pieces of parchment in front of her. “I can help you with your work, you know. I would love nothing more.”
“I can’t say I relish the idea of my wife working, but if it means spending more time with you, I shall bear it.”
Cam’s lips curved into the smile that Rose loved, as he sat next to her on the bench.