Part 7 (1/2)
”I beg your pardon, I only meant that I imagined you had other interests Again she broke off. That sounded even worse!
Lord Henry smiled, showing her the books.
”Allow me to astound you then, ma'am! I have here Cole- ridge's Biographica Liter aria and some Homer, which I have not read since I was in short coats!
I a.s.sure you, I am far more erudite than you think me!”
Polly blinked, unable to refute the evidence of her eyes. It seemed singular that a man whose self- proclaimed aim in life was enjoyment to the point of dissipation should sit in alone with only his books for company.
”I am so glad to see you restored to health,” Lord Henry continued smoothly.
”I was at Lady Rout- ledge's picnic earlier and your sister-in-law intimated that you had been taken ill after the ball last night.
Something you ate--or drank, perhaps?”
Polly could feel herself blus.h.i.+ng with vexation. The last thing that she wanted was to be reminded of the previous evening and Lord Henry's scandalous behaviour.
”I am quite recovered now, I thank you,” she said stiffly.
”Good day, sir.
I must be on my way home for we are promised for the theatre this evening. ” ”Perhaps I may escort you back to Brook Street?” Lord Henry suggested politely.
He held the door for her as she went out into the sunny street. It was tempting to accept his offer, but since Polly was still smarting with mortification over her behaviour the night before. Lord Henry's continued presence could only be a dangerous reminder. She gave him a smile behind which her regret was imperfectly hidden.
”Thank you, sir, but I think not. I have my maid with me for company and it is not far to home,”
”I am disappointed, ma'am,” Lord Henry said, falling into step beside her as though she had not spoken. ”Are we not pledged to a better understanding?
How may that be achieved if you refuse my company?”
”Pledged to a better understanding?” Polly stopped and stared up at him.
The summer breeze was ruffling his thick fair hair and she stifled a sudden urge to touch it. She realised that she was still staring.
Hastily, she started walking again.
”Why, yes.” Somehow Lord Henry had taken her arm without her noticing.
It seemed churlish to draw away from him.
”We are to be friends, remember? You suggested it last night!”
”Friends!” Polly almost tripped up with shock and his hand tightened momentarily on her arm, sending all sorts of strange but delicious sensations through her body.
”Yes, of course you must remember! We were on the terrace--' ” Yes! ”
Polly squeaked, convinced he was about to remind her of every searing detail. She took a deep breath.
”Of course I remember our conversation, sir. I had the particular impression, however, that you did not care for my suggestion!”
Lord Henry turned to look at her. It was a distinctly speculative look.