Rex crossed the hall and closed himself in his room. His blood roared in his veins. Bloody hell that had been close. That woman was full of surprises. He saw a different version of her each and every time they met. He loved it.

He tossed himself into the chair next to the fireplace. Scrubbing his face, Rex knew he wasn’t supposed to love anything about her. He was just transportation. Nothing more.

How could she not understand how sweet and innocent she actually was? Everyone made mistakes. The important part was that a person learned from them, grew better for having made them.

His breath stopped. Could the same be said for him and his past?

Standing, he threw another log on the fire and then untied his cravat. It was a question too weighty for tonight.

After readying himself for bed, he slipped under the covers, preparing to sleep. The moment, however, the blankets weighed down on his chest, his mind replayed every soft touch Petal had just given him. Her aroma, like spring flowers, still filled his nostrils and the sounds she’d made replayed over and over in his mind. Her little gasps, the squeak she made when she didn’t want to share information.

Flipping over onto his stomach, he buried his face into his pillow. He’d never sleep at this rate.

Which was why the crowing of the cock took him by surprise a few hours later. He must have drifted off and he dragged himself out of bed. Being an early riser, normally he’d made an early appointment. There was nothing to do but get out of bed.

Besides, he didn’t trust Petal to make breakfast.

He dressed then made his way down to the kitchen to light the stove.

He was nearly done with breakfast by the time Petal arrived. She was back in her work clothing today and she carried a bundle in her arms.

“My apologies for leaving you to prepare breakfast,” she said. “I was attending Mrs. Fields.”

Her eyes were puffy as though she hadn’t slept either. “Good morning, and no worries. I enjoy the mornings and the cooking.”

She set down the bundle she carried into a chair and then glanced at the doorway, craning her neck. Stepping closer, she whispered, “About what I said last night…” She clasped her hands, twisting them over and over. “I shouldn’t have told you about Rathemore or any of it.”

“Yes you should.” He moved closer too. “Have you ever considered that you did your sister a favor? Rathemore is known for promising to marry eligible ladies and then ruining them. Your sister might have felt more compelled to submit to his advances because of the promise of marriage and then have been ruined. Now, she is marrying a duke.”

She started, her head snapping back as she met his gaze. “I hadn’t thought of that.” Then she gave him a wide smile. It lit her whole face as she threw her arms about his neck and pressed close.

He didn’t hesitate, pulling her against him so they pressed together.

Her breath stuttered and, just as suddenly as she hugged him, she pulled away, her palms rubbing up and down her skirt. “But I also should apologize for what I suggested…” She swallowed. “Though you claimed to be a rake, it is I who acted inappropriately.”

He chuckled. “This is new for me and I rather like it.” He reached for one of her hands. “Your heart was in the right place, unlike mine on many, many occasions.” He’d not share the number of women who decorated his past. “But I would appreciate that you not ask me to kiss you again. Next time, I don’t know I’ll be able to say no.”

Her cheeks turned the loveliest shade of pink as she gave a stiff nod. “Of course.”

“Breakfast is nearly ready. Can you wake Jacob and bring a tray to Mrs. Fields?” He turned back to the stove as he heard her leave the kitchen. She might have been right when she said travelling together was a bad idea. How would he spend two days trapped in a carriage with her and not kiss her senseless?

They ate their breakfast in a companionable silence and then he and Jacob left. It was a short carriage ride to his solicitor’s office and the streets were quiet as they made their way.

Jacob sat next to him, unusually quiet.

“Get any sleep last night?” Rex eyed the boy from the corner of his gaze as he drove.

“I did all right.” Jacob shifted in his seat. “What is the solicitor going to tell me today?”

“Well…” Rex glanced over. Jacob’s face was drawn in tight lines. “He mostly gives legal advice in terms of drawing up contracts and helping me to acquire property, etcetera. Today I am purchasing a coal mine. I believe it’s the way of the future and they are inexpensive now.”

Jacob’s mouth twisted. “I’ve no money to write a contract to purchase anything. I mean I could sell the house but then where would I live until I could afford a new one?”

Rex scratched his chin. “What you need, young man, is a loan.”

“Who would loan a boy money?” Jacob’s shoulder’s hunched.

“I would.” Rex gave Jacob a nudge with his elbow. “I’ll give you excellent terms and I’ve every faith that you will do great things with the money.”

Jacob straightened, his shoulders snapping back. “Why would you do that?”

“It’s a sound decision for both of us. You’ll get an asset that I am convinced will make you money. Once it does, buy another. I will earn interest on the money I lent you. We will both make a profit.”

“Shouldn’t you just buy the mine yourself?” Jacob’s voice dropped low, as he looked down at his lap once again.

“I suppose, but then I wouldn’t be helping you and Petal.”

Jacob was quiet as he dropped his elbows to his knees. “Have you ever considered just marrying my sister? I see the way you look at her.”

Rex parted his lips, but no sound came out. He’d like to say yes, I’ve considered it. Every other second since I’ve arrived. “Petal deserves the best sort of man. I wouldn’t be good enough for her.”

Jacob cocked his head. “If you say so. You’re an earl who isn’t destitute. Petal was about to beat out rugs when we left.”

That was a bloody good point. “I was not a good husband to my first wife.”

Jacob leaned closer. “After the Rathemore incident, Petal tried to run away and join a nunnery. My mother stopped her, saying that she would bring a good match to the family yet. Whatever type of husband you are, I can only imagine it would be better than spending the day in prayer.” Jacob gave a shiver.

Jacob and Rex left for the solicitor and Daffodil sighed with relief. One, she needed a reprieve from Rex’s strong arms and penetrating gaze. He was working his way under her defenses. But also, she was glad that Jacob would finally learn how to properly manage their affairs. Her father had been kind and attentive but he’d spent every penny they had and sold nearly every asset to spend more.

Her father, looking back, hadn’t wanted to work. Thankfully, none of his children followed in his footsteps. She wondered which of her parents had suffered from loose morals. Or was she an anomaly in the family?

Sighing again, she set about dusting the library and the sitting room. She’d already attended the dishes and shaken out the rugs. She would soon bring the noon meal to Mrs. Fields. Dr. Mayweather had sent a note saying that he’d lined up some interviews this afternoon. With any luck, they’d have a small staff when they left.

Once her sister was married, she would implore her brother-in-law to sponsor her for the season, make a match as quickly as possible, and save her from herself. Once married, she’d be safe from her own foolish desires. She’d be safe from Rex.

Finishing the dusting, she made her way to the kitchen and prepared two plates. Piling them onto a tray, she headed up the stairs to Mrs. Field’s room.

Knocking softly, she entered the darkened room to find Mrs. Fields dozing in her bed. The woman cracked open her eyes and gave Daffodil a smile. “Lady Daffodil. Is it time to eat again already?”

Daffodil nodded. “It is. Are you feeling all right?”

“Fine, fine. I’ve been tired the past few days but also in less pain. I’m catching up on all the sleep I missed, I think.” She pulled herself up in bed as Daffodil set down the tray and plumped the pillows behind her.

“I’m glad to hear it.” She smiled. “Lord Casterly is hiring a few servants to attend you and the house while we go to Violet’s wedding. But I’ll be back as soon as I can to check on you. Write if you’re well before that and we will come get you.”

Mrs. Fields reached her hand up and touched Daffodil’s cheek. “You always were the sweetest soul.”

Daffodil tried not to frown. She appreciated Mrs. Field’s words, but they just weren’t true. “Thank you for saying that. I haven’t been acting like it lately.”

“You mean that Rathemore business last fall? Don’t mix that up in your head.” Mrs. Fields waved her hand.

“Violette was livid.” Daffodil grabbed a plate from the tray and handed it to Mrs. Fields. Then she seated herself to eat as well.

“You don’t have to eat with me, dear.” Mrs. Fields narrowed her gaze as she assessed Daffodil. “You’re the lady of the house.”

While true, it was also ridiculous under the circumstances. “Mrs. Fields, I currently attend you. I emptied your bedpan this morning. No one is above anyone currently. We are mired in the mud together.”

“A situation I am eternally grateful for. What would have happened to me if I’d hurt myself in someone else’s home? I’d be tossed onto the street.” Mrs. Fields reached for her hand. “Listen to me, dear. Your sister isn’t angry that you distracted Rathemore. She knew what was happening and she was relieved. She was angry because your mother stood up for you. Violette has long thought your mother favored you over her and it hurts her deeply.” Mrs. Fields gave her fingers a squeeze as Daffodil stared at her, speechless. “Your mistake was one many a lady has fallen prey to. It doesn’t make you a bad person. And now that your sister is situated, all will be forgiven. It’s time to forgive yourself.”

Daffodil clutched the plate in her hands as she allowed the words to sink in. Mrs. Fields had made several good points. Still, the woman didn’t know what had transpired between Daffodil and Rex. If Mrs. Fields did, she’d not be speaking of forgiveness.