Peter chuckled. “You may do that whenever the mood strikes you, although probably not in the company of others,” he said. He let her go and took up the horses’ reins so he could guide them to the stream.
James soon joined them.
“James, I’m sure your horse would care for a drink as well,” Peter said.
The groom nodded and slid off the horse, leading the mare to the stream and staying with all three horses while Peter and Grace walked a little way off.
“Peter, may I ask you a question?” Grace said.
“Of course.”
“It’s a bit awkward, but…”
Peter brought her hand to his lips for a kiss. “My darling, what would you like to know?”
“Why did you not look at me during Sunday services? I’ve noticed that you avoided eye contact with me.”
“Um…”
“Is there something wrong? Have I done something to upset you?”
“No, not at all,” Peter said, shaking his head. “The truth is, I cannot think clearly when you are around. My mind goes blank, the sermon flies out of my mind, and I can think about nothing but you, your sweet lips, and how much I want to kiss you.”
Grace’s lips curved up in a smile, but before she had a chance to answer, James walked over to them, leading the three horses. “Excuse me, Miss Parker, the horses have drunk their fill and are getting a little restless.”
“Of course. Thank you, James.”
Peter lifted her up into the saddle before he took his seat on Midnight, and they set an easy pace back to the stables.
Mr. Swifton came out into the yard when he heard them. “I trust you had a good ride today?”
“It was lovely,” Grace said.
“Thank you, Mr. Swifton. Midnight is a magnificent horse, and I very much enjoyed riding him.”
“He is indeed, Mr. Wallings. He’s Lord Fletcher’s personal mount,” the stablemaster said, taking the reins and leading the horses back inside the stable.
“That’s very generous of him; I must thank him for doing me the courtesy of allowing me to ride Midnight,” Peter said.
“Yes, Fletcher is quite accommodating,” Grace said.
Mr. Wallings tucked her hand inside his elbow and walked her back to the manor. “Thank you for the invitation today. It was a most enjoyable afternoon.”
“I’m glad you were available.”
“I’m always available for you, Grace,” he said, kissing her hand before striding away to ask the stablemaster to hitch Belle to the cart.
“Mr. Wallings, wait!”
Peter turned. “Miss Parker?”
“Would you care to stay for tea?”
Peter’s devastating smile nearly undid her.
“That would be most appreciated.”
They walked back into the house together as Audrey was coming down the stairs. “Mr. Wallings, a pleasure to see you.”