Promise Me Read Online Free Page B

lowered her tone. “Adrian should’ve never asked it of you. And you are not a coward. But perhaps you should seek a wiser council. Hugh returns from France next month. Why not ask him?”
    “ Oh, Anne. I’m uncomfortable discussing such delicate matters. And certainly not with your husband.” Leah tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “This situation is so unfair to Edwin. And then there’s Lady Chase. Should she not be told she has a great grandson?”
    Her ladyship’s expression softened, but she did not reply.
    “ I’ve tried to convince Miss Santiago that the Chase family can provide for Edwin,” Leah added. “But she will not listen because she fears losing him.”
    “ Maria Santiago is probably more frightened of losing you, her benefactor, because I’m more than certain Aunt Margaret would not pay for her silence.”
    Leah grimaced. “Is that what you think I’m doing? Paying for her silence?”
    “ Of course not, and I didn’t mean to imply as much.” Anne placed her arm around Leah’s waist. “My dear, I realize you’ve become fond of Edwin. So have I. But you must sever your connection with his dreadful mother at once. Before it’s too late.”
     
    ###
     
    Nicolas peered into the swirling waters beneath the wooden bridge. As youngsters, he and Adrian had spent many a playful afternoon here.
    He gripped the pommel of his saddle and leaned forward. What would he say to Leah Sheridan? What could he say to make amends?
    The chestnut snorted softly. He stroked the horse’s neck and urged him forward. Once across the bridge, he turned his mount north. A few minutes later, Greyson Manor came into view. Down the hill from the main house, a young girl stood on the wooden pier. She raised her hand and tossed something into the water. As Nicolas neared, he realized she was trying to skim stones.
    He reined in. “I used to be pretty good at that when I was a lad.”
    She turned, shielding her eyes against the glare of the afternoon sun.
    He dismounted, leaving his horse to graze. “Forgive my poor manners, my lady. My name is Nicolas.”
    A delightful grin spread across her face. “Lord Adrian’s brother?”
    “ That’s right. And you are?”
    “ Katrina Sheridan, your Grace.”
    “ Ah, the younger sister. It is indeed a pleasure.” He hopped onto the pier and strolled over to her. “Would you like me to demonstrate how to skim a stone?”
    She nodded.
    Nicolas chose a medium-sized pebble from the ones she’d collected. “You see, Miss Sheridan, it’s all in the wrist.”
    “ Kat.”
    “ I beg your pardon?”
    “ I’m called Kat.”
    “ Oh, I see.” He placed the pebble in her palm and closed her fist. “Now, Kat, you must flick your wrist quickly and without hesitation. Make it snap as you release the stone. Watch.” He chose another pebble and demonstrated the technique. “Now you try.”
    She did but couldn’t match his expertise. Finally she gave up and sat down.
    He joined her. “With patience and practice, you’ll be an expert in no time.”
    She sighed. “A lady shouldn’t be encouraged in such boyish activities.”
    “ Who told you skimming stones is boyish?”
    “ My etiquette book. It’s fairly strict in regards to such things.”
    He grinned. “Do you know who taught me the art of skimming stones?”
    “ Your papa?”
    Nicolas shook his head. “Your mother.”
    Her eyes widened. “She did?”
    “ Cross my heart. Trust me, Kat, your mother knew more about etiquette than anyone, and she understood this one simple rule. Never follow an etiquette book chapter by chapter, you’ll become so boring no gentleman will ever talk to you for fear of falling asleep.”
    She giggled and cocked her head to one side, studying him. “You’re different from Lord Adrian.”
    “ Oh? How’s that?”
    “ Your hair is black, like crow’s feathers. Your eyes as well. You’re just as handsome though, in a dark sort of way, and definitely more serious.”
    “ I owe my