Free Practically Wicked by Alissa Johnson Page B

better when he disappeared inside the house.
    Lord Engsly cleared his throat again. “Lord Dane has been a true friend to the Haverstons for many years. His presence here doesn’t make you uneasy, I hope? I’d thought—”
    “Not in the least,” Anna lied. Because, really, what else could she possible say? Your dearest friend makes me exceedingly uneasy. Please do remove him from your home for the few hours I am here.
    “Excellent. Excellent. I should like for the two of you to be friends as well.”
    “I’m sure that would be lovely.”
    She was sure there was scarcely a chance in hell of that occurring. But as Lord Dane had clearly not seen fit to inform his dearest friend of their history, she thought it might be best to keep her peace on the matter as well.
    She remained mostly silent while Engsly introduced her to the staff—a formality that confused her—and as she was ushered into the front hall with its soaring ceiling, sweeping twin staircases, and marble balustrades. And she was quiet still as she was led down a wide hall lined with windows that let in broad beams of sunlight to warm the air.
    Engsly was saying something about the front of the manor being an addition made in the last century, and the rear of the manor retaining many of its Elizabethan charms. But all the while, she kept thinking, My brother. This man is my brother.
    And willing herself to feel something other than concern for Mrs. Culpepper, continued unease at the presence of Max Dane, and the desire to be done with Caldwell Manor and on her way as quickly as possible.
    “Here we are,” Engsly announced, gesturing her through an open set of doors. “The family parlor.”
    He’d brought her to the parlor rather than his study? Anna hadn’t expected that, but after a moment’s thought, decided to take it as a promising sign that he viewed her as something more than a distasteful matter of business. Which, incidentally, and less promising, was an indication that he didn’t intend to give her the thousand pounds straight away.
    There would be a discussion.
    “Please,” Engsly encouraged, gesturing toward a settee. “Make yourself comfortable.”
    “Thank you. It is a lovely room.” Anna had the overall impression of sturdy, old-fashioned, but well-kept furniture and muted colors on the walls and carpet, but the details of the room escaped her. She kept her eyes on the marquess as she settled on the edge of a seat.
    He, in turn, kept his eyes on her as he took up position in a chair across from her.
    A lengthy silence followed.
    “Well,” she tried, and brushed a hand down her skirt.
    “Well,” he countered.
    The eyeing continued until a maid, whose name had already escaped Anna, brought refreshments into the room.
    Anna snatched up a biscuit the moment they were within reach and took a small bite. “These are quite good.”
    They could have tasted of mud and she’d not have cared. She was just grateful to have something to discuss.
    “I’m glad they please you,” Lord Engsly said, taking one for himself as the maid disappeared again. “They’re orange and spice. One of Gideon’s favorites. He’ll be arriving soon. And my wife. They’re traveling from Scotland.”
    “It will be a pleasure to make their acquaintance,” she replied and hoped it was true.
    At least she’d not been expected to greet the family all at once. Perhaps the experience would be less traumatic if her exposure to the Haverstons was done slowly, bit by bit.
    Or perhaps it would be like amputating a limb with a butter knife.
    “Acquaintance,” Lucien repeated, and a small furrow worked into his brow. “Yes. I had hoped you might meet with my brother’s wife as well. Unfortunately, Winnefred also finds long trips to be unpleasant. I am told she is learning to ride, which should make travel easier for her.”
    “That seems wise.” She fiddled with the biscuit in her hand until it began to crumble, forcing her to stop. “Well,” she said and