Read Constant Hearts, Inspired by Jane Austen's Persuasion Page 8
Chapter 8
As the color fled from Amelia’s face, Reed turned to the rider who’d spoken. Cold anger settled into his stomach.
He inclined his head but did not bother to keep the malice out of his voice. “Lord Forsythe.”
Amelia’s former husband barely spared him a glance. “You look positively ill, my dear. Perhaps it’s that color. I never did like you in red. Or maybe unmarried life does not suit you after all?”
“You do not suit me,” Amelia shot back.
“No, we never were a good pair. But at least I got your dowry for my trouble, so I suppose it wasn’t a complete waste.”
Reed’s cold anger turned into a hot rage. “Watch yourself, sir, lest I take exception to your behavior toward the lady.”
Lord Forsythe laughed, sharp and mirthless. “You do play the lover well, St. Ives, but I know better. And really, she isn’t worth the trouble.”
“She’s worth far more than a cowardly snake like you is capable of giving.”
Lord Forsythe’s eyes narrowed. “I suppose you think because you survived a war that you’re brave. But do not make the mistake of crossing me.”
Reed maneuvered his horse closer to the lord and stared him down. “Do not make the mistake of insulting Amy either in public or private again or I assure you, I will ensure that you will regret it.”
Lord Forsythe scoffed, but a hesitant light touched his eye. “You do not intimidate me.”
“Leave. Her. Be.”
Amelia’s former husband sneered but uneasiness touched his posture. “I told you; she isn’t worth it.” He looked Amelia over from head to toe. “Farewell, Ice Queen. Maybe this hot-blooded fool will warm your frigid heart. I care not.”
Amy raised her chin. “I wish you well, Lord Forsythe. I’m sure some day you’ll find a woman who loves you in spite of all your flaws. I truly hope you don’t simply die of some horrible disease you picked up at a brothel.”
With a murderous glint in his eyes Lord Forsythe moved closer. Reed leaped forward to intervene, but didn’t need to; Amy brought up her riding crop, poised to strike.
Lord Forsythe let out a scoff. “You aren’t worth the trouble.” He spurred his horse and left them.
Reed took a calming breath, still wishing he could have strangled the heartless cad. Amelia’s ragged breathing drew his attention. She pressed her lips into a tight line, and her hands clenched her reins as if trying to squeeze the life out of them.
“Amy.” He moved his horse next to hers, close enough that his leg brushed against her mare. He reached out and took her trembling hands in his. “He can’t hurt you anymore.”
She gripped his hand as if she depended upon it to remain upright. “I don’t know why I let him upset me so.” She let out a half sob. “To think I once thought I might someday love him.”
“He puts on a charming veneer when he chooses to.”
“I won’t make that mistake a second time.”
“What? Falling for the charms of a rake, or getting married.”
“Trying to please someone else instead of listening to my heart.” She drew in a breath and squared her shoulders. “Thank you for the ride.”
Reed roused himself. “I’ll escort you back.”
They rode in silence, Amelia looking straight ahead as if unaware of his presence.
They left their horses in the care of a pair of stable lads, one who mounted Amelia’s and rode it back to the mews, the other held the reins of Reed’s horse. Reed walked her up the stairs to the front door. Inside the foyer, they stood awkwardly, Reed searching for a safe topic, wishing for what might have been, or what could be…
Amy offered her hand. “Thank you for the ride. It was lovely to see you again. Good luck in the country. I, too, am returning home on Friday.”
The wind left his lungs. “Friday?” he wheezed.
“My work here is complete. It’s time. Good bye, Reed.” She turned and disappeared into a nearby room, softly closing the door behind her.
Stunned, Reed stood with his hat in his hands. Friday. He’d never see her again.
A wide, gaping hole tore open inside him.
A voice broke through his thoughts. “If you still care for her, you’d best make yourself known. She’s returning to the country Friday.” Amy’s Aunt Millie stood watching him.
Reed stammered, “She and I …we…I’m not sure we suit.”
She smiled wisely. “Is that your whole heart speaking, or just the wounded part?”
He opened his mouth but could make no reply.
“She rejected you to please her uncle. Not because she didn’t love you. She loves you still.”
Reed took a breath. Then another.
She nodded as a triumphant gleam entered her eye. “Good day, Dr. St. Ives.”
He rasped out, “Good day, madam.”
He left, more uncertain of his course than ever. He’d hoped by spending time with Amelia, he could prove to himself that she no longer meant anything to him.
But after only a few short hours, he suspected if he let Amelia walk out of his life again, he’d never survive the loss.