“An investment opportunity is much different than a questionable donation.”
“Only if the investment succeeds,” Joseph said with a smile. “I truly appreciate your help in finding out why the reverend is here. I thought to ask Martin but haven’t seen him today.”
“He had to leave to see to a business matter and isn’t expected back until tomorrow.”
“See, you are a wealth of information.” He smiled again, his troubled thoughts easing as he watched her. “And you are a balm to my frustration. I thank you for both.”
“I wish I could be of more help.” Her lips tightened with displeasure. “If I have the chance to ask the reverend a few questions, I will certainly do so.”
“Take care if you do. Just because he has ‘reverend’ in front of his name doesn’t make him an especially nice or considerate person.”
Harriet stared at him before nodding, her fingers pressing to her chest. He’d obviously shocked her, but he wanted her to take his warning seriously. Henderson was not to be trusted as far as he was concerned.
She gestured toward the door. “I was going to the drawing room to make certain none of the guests who were interested in playing the games this afternoon were there. The activities are being held in the sitting room on the main floor.”
“I’m grateful you did, or I would’ve missed out on the chance to spend more time with you.”
Her mouth opened even as her eyes widened in surprise. Then a delightful blush colored her cheeks. She clearly didn’t know what to say.
He didn’t know what made him speak so plainly, but the week would be over before he knew it. Time was of the essence, and he wanted her to know that he found her intriguing. His reaction to her was unlike anything he’d experienced before, and he knew beyond a doubt he wanted to explore it.
Unfortunately, based on Harriet’s reaction, he wasn’t sure whether she felt the same way. Perhaps she wasn’t the one leaving him notes.
“I suppose we should join everyone, or they’ll be wondering what’s become of us,” he said.
“Yes, I suppose.” She turned to lead the way out of the room only to turn back, her gaze holding on him even as a deeper color rose to her cheeks. “I welcome the chance to spend time with you as well, Joseph.”
Before he could respond, she opened the door and stepped out. “Are you coming?” she asked with a glance over her shoulder and a smile.
Now he was the one taken by surprise. Lady Harriet Persimmons was a delight, and he was so pleased they had the rest of the week to come to know one another better.
Chapter Eight
The moment Harrietentered the sitting room with Joseph, she caught the puzzled look Frances sent her. Her friend probably wondered why they were walking in late together—and why Harriet’s face was red. An explanation would have to wait, though she didn’t know what she might say.
Her thoughts were still reeling from what Joseph had said. To think he wanted to spend time with her was thrilling yet concerning since she was supposed to be helping Frances.