Behind the Rake's Wicked Wager - By Sarah Mallory Page 0,32

niece and return to Markham.

Jasper went out for his usual early walk, but this time turned his steps towards Sydney Gardens, determined that he would not even look to see if Miss Prentess’s carriage left the city that morning.

* * *

He returned to York House for breakfast and spent the next few hours at the desk replying to his steward and writing various letters. The afternoon was well advanced by the time he applied his seal to the last letter, and when Jasper glanced at the clock he was surprised to find it was so late. It had become something of a habit for Gerald to call in York House each afternoon, if they had not met earlier in the day, to discuss plans for the evening. Jasper shrugged. He was not his cousin’s keeper. Gerald was of age, after all, and had gone on very well in Bath before his arrival. Jasper finished his letters and called for Peters to bring his hat and cane: he would call upon Gerald at his lodgings in Westgate Buildings and invite him to dinner.

* * *

In the event Jasper never reached Gerald’s abode, nor did he issue the invitation. He had stopped in Milsom Street. It was in his mind to buy a little gift to send down to his godson at Rooks Tower, but his attention was caught by a reflection in the toyshop window. The shop was on the shady side of the street, so the image from the far side of the road was particularly clear. Gerald had emerged from the jewellers and paused to pull on his gloves. Jasper turned and was about to hail his cousin when he noticed the veiled figure of a lady being ushered out of the shop with much bowing by a black-coated assistant. It was obvious to Jasper that Gerald was waiting for the lady. He held out his arm to her, but before setting off she put up her veil to display the lovely countenance of Susannah Prentess.

Jasper froze. Susannah slipped her hand through Gerald’s arm and they set off down the street. There was such a warm smile on her face that Jasper felt winded. He stepped back, almost reeling from the sudden bolt of jealousy that shot through him.

The low sun was shining upon them and they did not notice him watching from the shadows. Had Gerald proposed again, had he been accepted? No. He could not believe it. He would not believe it until he had spoken to his cousin. With an effort he forced his unwilling feet to carry him onwards. His brain seethed with conjecture, but he refused to admit his worst fears. He wandered about the town, visiting the Pump Room and the circulating library, but nothing could satisfy his restless spirit. He called at the White Hart but discovered that Charles Camerton had gone out. No matter, Charles was joining him for dinner, so he would see him then. However, as he turned his steps once more towards his hotel he saw Gerald walking down High Street towards him. He was somewhat reassured by the way Gerald hailed him cheerfully, but after they had exchanged greetings, Jasper could not resist telling him that he had seen him earlier.

‘You were outside the jewellers with Miss Prentess. Would you like to tell me what that was about?’

‘Actually, I am not at liberty to say at the moment.’ Gerald’s boyish face flushed. ‘I promised Susannah.’

‘I see.’ Jasper’s jaw clenched at the familiar use of her name and there was a hollow ache in his stomach.

‘It is nothing terrible,’ Gerald hurried on, watching him anxiously.

Jasper forced a smile to his lips.

‘If that is the case then why can you not tell me?’

Gerald looked uncomfortable.

‘It is just that I know Mama would not approve. She might quiz you, and if you do not know, then you cannot tell her anything, can you?’

‘Gerald—’

His cousin cut him short.

‘Will you be at the Crescent this evening? I will ask Susannah. If she is willing, I will tell you then. I promise. For now you must excuse me, I am on an errand.’

‘Come and dine with me tonight,’ said Jasper. ‘Charles Camerton will be there, we can go on to the Crescent together.’

Gerald shook his head.

‘I am sorry, Jasper, I should like to join you, but I do not think I will be back in time.’

‘Why, where are you going?’

‘I told you, an errand,’ was all the answer Gerald would give before he