The Improper Companion

Chapter 13

The next morning, a number of the ladies and gentlemen were seen riding about the country side. The weather was fine and the day bright.

Fiona was lurking outside, unsure of what to do. The duchess had ordered her out and commanded that she enjoy herself. Whatever did that mean?

From the corner of her eye, she spotted the Duke and Lady Sophia, riding side by side. They did indeed make a fine sight, the pair of them. The Lady was a beautiful woman and when Fiona had seen her yesterday for the first time, she'd felt like a tiny, inconsequential bug—not worthy of breathing the same air as her. In daylight, she was even more dazzling. Her green riding attire was immaculate, showcasing her perfect figure and her glorious hair cascaded down her back in soft waves. Not to mention, the two of them together looked like they'd jumped straight out of a painting. And in their presence, Fiona couldn't help but feel small.

She cringed at the direction of her thoughts.

You are just as worthy as them, she told herself sternly. And if someone could make her feel small, it was herself.

"Miss Butterworth!" someone bellowed. Fiona groaned before turning to see who it was.

Lord Winston.

"Good morning, my lord. How can I help you this morn?" she fixed a smile upon her lips.

"By slowing down?" he replied as he jogged to her side. "I've been calling out your name."

Fiona chuckled. "I'm afraid I didn't hear you."

"Is there something you need?" Fiona questioned once he'd reached her side.

"Good God, woman! Has no one ever approached you to simply for the pleasure of your company?"

"No," she said with a small shrug.

"Well, there's always a first time," he huffed, looking affronted on her behalf.

Fiona couldn't help but smile. Her smile more genuine this time. Yes, Lord Winston unnerved her a little—almost every guest here did. But he wasn't so bad. Maybe she could do without all the attention he was showering on her, but she didn't mind his company. He seemed amiable enough—not bothered by her lack of a rank.

"Shall we ride?" he asked politely.

"I can't ride. I never had the chance to learn."

"Very well. Shall I walk with you then?"

"Yes," Fiona replied. Lord Winston smiled  and took the hand lying limply by her side and put it on his arm.

He was quite talkative but also knowledgable. He asked for her opinion on various matters and Fiona found herself enjoying their light but witty banter.

More than once, Fiona had noticed the Duke staring at them from a distance. He had looked angry and his face looked like it was set in stone. Fiona decided that it was best if she ignored him.

"I like you, Miss Butterworth," Lord Winston smiled down at her.

"A lot of people do, Lord Winston," Fiona grinned cheekily at him.

He threw his head back and laughed, the sound loud and jolly. It also drew the attention of many people, including that of the Duke and Fiona was just a little embarrassed at all the attention directed towards her.

"Call me Robert, please. And give me the permission to call you by your given name," he said, his eyes intent, all traces of amusement gone.

Fiona wondered if it was proper. But he was an Earl and surely she wasn't so prudish as to deny him this. And she knew that he had only friendship in mind.