Fletcher looked up from the papers on his desk and smiled at her. “My dear, are you feeling better? You still look a little pale. Perhaps you should return to bed and rest for a while longer.”
Audrey chuckled. “I don’t think mere rest is going to help me, not at this stage anyway.”
Fletcher frowned before his eyes filled with wonder. “Are you with child?” he asked as he stood and rushed to her, pulling her into an embrace.
“I am, my darling, although it’s early days yet. I wanted to be sure before I mentioned anything.”
“All the more reason you should be resting. Should we depart for Dandridge Manor? This London air cannot be good for you or the child.”
Audrey stroked her husband’s cheek. “You’re such a dear man, but I assure you all is well. I want to stay in London so Mia can enjoy her Season.”
“You’re a wonder. Always thinking of everyone else’s happiness.”
“It’s not hard to want my family to be happy.”
“I understand, but you mustn’t endanger your health. Promise me you’ll tell me the moment you’re not feeling well and want to return to the country.”
“I will. Now that that’s been decided, perhaps you might kiss me.”
Fletcher lowered his head. “It would be my absolute pleasure, my darling,” he said, kissing her long and deep.
Time ticked by slowlyas Mia waited for Kathryn and Lord Easton to arrive, but finally, she heard the clip-clop of horses outside. She rushed to the window and let out a squeal when she saw them stop their mounts out front. The extra horse they’d brought for her seemed quite calm. That was good. She wasn’t quite ready or confident enough in her riding skills to handle a spirited horse.
Now all she needed was for her brother-in-law to appear, and they could get going. No sooner had that thought popped into her head than he walked into the drawing room.
“Are you ready, Mia?” he asked.
“Yes!” she said, picking up her leather gloves and following Fletcher out to the foyer. “I’m so excited. I’ve never been riding in Hyde Park before.”
Beckwith had the door open for them. “Enjoy your ride.”
“Thank you, Beckwith,” Mia said as she sailed out the door. “Good morning, Lady Clifford, Lord Easton.”
A groom was bringing Midnight from the mews, and the black stallion seemed anxious to get going, snorting and pawing at the ground.
“Good morning, Miss Parker,” Easton said. “A glorious day for a ride, wouldn’t you agree?”
“Absolutely,” Mia said.
“Your horse’s name is Lucille,” Kathryn said. “She’s a very sweet mare. I’m sure you’ll enjoy riding her. She doesn’t spook easily.”
“Thank you for bringing her,” Mia said. She walked over and held her hand out for the horse to sniff before patting her neck. “Lucille, it’s lovely to meet you.”
The groom holding Lucille helped Mia into the saddle.
“Fletcher, that’s a magnificent stallion,” Easton said.
“Thank you. This is Midnight,” he said, vaulting into the saddle before appraising Easton’s mount. “So, this is the new stallion I’ve heard about. He’s quite a specimen of superior breeding.”
“I knew I wanted him the moment I saw him at Tattersall’s.” Easton’s stallion was also stomping his feet and snorting. “I do believe Ares is impatient to be going as well,” he said with a chuckle.
“Of course. Lead on,” Fletcher said, falling in line with Mia while Lady Kathryn walked ahead with Easton.
As they traveled along the streets heading toward the park, Mia couldn’t help but notice how well Easton looked in the saddle. He had full command of his magnificent stallion, even though Ares didn’t seem to like Midnight walking anywhere near him.
Entering through the gate into Hyde Park always gave Mia such a thrill, whether she was promenading or riding. When she was younger, Hyde Park was a magical place that she was not granted access to. Her father never allowed them to promenade, and no one dared argue with his dictate. It wasn’t until her sister married Fletcher that she was finally able to venture into the park. Today was the first time she would be able to ride, and she could hardly contain her excitement.
To ride and be seen by Society was something she’d never thought she’d be able to enjoy, but here she was in the companyof a very handsome gentleman and a dear friend. She sat up straight in the saddle and held the reins loosely in her hands, like Mr. Swifton, the stablemaster at Dandridge Manor, had taught her. He’d been so patient with her, helping her overcome her fear of horses and teaching her proper riding techniques. Now she adored horses.