A Penny's Worth of Affection novel Chapter 54

"Miss Inglewood," Phillip began, turning from the window to face her once more. "There is something I..."

He trailed off abruptly, and his gaze shifted to the doorway. Penny, who had leaned forward eagerly to hear what he had to say, frowned at him when he broke off, then she followed his gaze to the doorway. Alasdair Lachlan stood there, hat in hand, grinning at the both of them.

"Mr. Lachlan!" Penny exclaimed, breaking into a welcoming smile. "What brings you here?"

Alasdair executed a gallant bow, his grey eyes twinkling in good humour. "Good morning, Miss Inglewood, Your Grace. I wish to check on my patient's well-being today. I must say you are looking splendid."

Penny felt a blush spread across her cheeks at the compliment. Beside her, she heard Phillip utter a low growl, and a frown descended on his face. She wondered why he appeared so disgruntled; nevertheless, she returned her attention to Mr. Lachlan.

"Thank you, Mr. Lachlan, though I owe my speedy recovery to you. Please do come in properly and have a seat."

Alasdair moved into the room and took the offered seat, his eyes straying to Phillip who stood there shooting him a glare then back to Penny. "It was a pleasure to be of help, Miss Inglewood. Where are your family?"

"Oh, Father has gone for a walk. Edward and Jane have gone to get their things from the other inn. We'll be leaving tomorrow morn."

"Are you sure your health will allow you to make the journey?" Phillip cut in, his voice cold despite his words which gave guise to some care.

Penny nodded and opened her mouth to reply, but Alasdair cut in. "Oh, I can vouch for her safety, Your grace. My remedies have never failed."

Phillip sneered, clasping his hands behind his back, his eyes mocking. "How fascinating."

Penny could feel the tension emanating from Phillip and sighed. What was the matter with him, and why on earth was he so ill-mannered towards Mr. Lachlan? She suddenly felt stifled and in need of air. Her mind made up, she pulled her shawl closer around her shoulder and rose. Alasdair shot to his feet and looked at her askance.

She smiled at him reassuringly. "I wish to take a walk. It is lovely outside, and I have been indoors for the last two days. I need some fresh air."

"Ah, yes, that is a splendid idea, Miss Inglewood." Alasdair nodded in approval. "May I have the pleasure of accompanying you perhaps?"

"Of course, Sir. I would be most delighted."

Her eyes shot green fire. "Foolish? You call me foolish in addition to seductress and whore?"

"What in damnation? I never called you a whore!"

"Oh, you merely implied it, in front of my family no less. Step aside, Phillip. Mr. Lachlan will be wondering where I am."

"No." He scoffed and moved even closer, his eyes glittering dangerously. "And that is why I sought you out. I wish to offer an apology. I was unnecessarily rude to you, and I am sorry."

Her mouth slid open, and she forgot how to breathe, only able to stare at him in shock. Had she heard correctly? He was actually apologizing for being beastly to her, or was this a ploy to stop her from going out with Mr. Lachlan? She narrowed her eyes at him, her suspicion flaring when he raised a rakish eyebrow, a grin playing at the corners of his mouth.

"I never thought I'd see the day you were rendered speechless." He chuckled, his breath fanning over her, her traitorous body responding instantly, even as a small shiver ran through her.

He must have noticed her reaction, for his gaze dropped to her mouth, a speculative gleam in their depths. Another shiver ran through her, and she could feel goose bumps creep over her skin. Angry with herself for being so susceptible to his wiles, she steeled herself and crossed her arms over her bosom, instantly realizing her mistake when his gaze dropped lower. Damn the man for doing this to her.