advantage of her weakened condition. Still, he loved the lavender scent of her hair, the sweet softness of her body. He felt quite loathe to let her go.
She struggled in his arms. "I do not believe that I have broken any bones."
"Then you are likely just bruised and shaken."
"Perhaps if you would help me to my feet, I could be sure of my situation."
He longed to ignore her protest, sweep her into his arms, and carry her back to the estate. Instead, he would remember his position. He must, he thought wryly. It would be awkward for the old ostler, Carter, if she were to demand Geoffrey's dismissal. He had no choice but to play his part.
He released her and lifted her gently to her feet.
The abigail trotted up. "Are you alright, Miss? I seen the horse take off and you hanging on for dear life. Please tell me you 'aven't broke any bones."
Caroline smiled shakily. "I believe only my dignity has been harmed."
She stared up at Geoffrey with a frown. "What was that noise I heard just before Beauty bolted?"
"It was a gun shot, Miss. No doubt a poacher was hunting rabbit."
"Oh."
Caroline seemed satisfied with his answer as she
brushed grass from her riding skirt. Geoffrey did not believe for a moment it had been a poacher hiding in the bushes. The bullet had likely been meant for him. If so, it would mean he had been found out. He would have to be watchful as he proceeded with his plan.
Caroline straightened her habit. "Does it happen often, this poaching, I mean?"
Geoffrey stared at her full lips that were filled again with color and he longed to taste their sweetness. Forcing himself to meet her eyes he said, "I don't think it has ever happened before. I shouldn't worry about it."
"Is it safe to go back now?"
Geoffrey glanced back to the woods that had concealed their assailant. "I am sure whoever frightened the horses has taken his rabbit and left the woods. However, we will stay far to this side. I am sure we will be quite safe."
He lifted Caroline easily onto her horse, pleased to note that she did not refuse to get back in the saddle. He could not abide women who had hysterics at the slightest provocation. Caroline had a quality of practicality that he found immensely appealing.
They walked the horses back to the stable so as not to jar Caroline's already bruised person. Except for the fall, she had found the mad pelt across the meadow somewhat exhilarating. Her pulse still raced when she remembered Geoffrey riding hard in pursuit. She had come conscious in the warmth of his arms. The security she had felt had been nearly worth the fall.
She glanced beside her to see him riding erect and self-assured in the saddle. His handsome features and confident bearing could pass him off as an aristocrat. If only he could trade places with that annoying Lord Humphrey. She would welcome the attentions of Geoffrey as much as she disliked the attention of the Viscount.
She sighed and scolded herself for such silly thoughts. The penchant she had for engaging in fantasies did her no good. Life was what it was and she would have to live with it. She could not encourage Geoffrey, but neither did she have to give up her riding. She did quite enjoy the sport and, if his company came with it, that was no fault of her own.
At the stables, Geoffrey helped her from her horse. Concern showed in his eyes. "Are you sure you were not injured?"
She smiled into the green inquisition of his gaze. "I am sure. I am also sure that my accident has not put me off of riding. I will keep trying until I learn to sit a horse."
"You did well to stay on as long as you did. You have the making of a fine horsewoman, my lady."
His kind words hung in her mind as she and the abigail walked the path to the house. She walked into the parlour to find Lady Aberly and Lavenia having a late breakfast.
Lady Aberly frowned. "You look a bit rumpled, my dear. I trust you had no trouble with your ride."
Caroline cast a warning glance at the abigail and