To Dare a Rogue - Lana Williams (novels for beginners TXT) 📗

problems don’t compare to yours, but I always feel better when I speak to someone else about what’s bothering me.”

“I don’t think talking would prove helpful in this case.”

“Hmm. I disagree. But I don’t suppose your aunt’s garden party is the place to debate the topic.” She smiled. “So instead, why don’t we enjoy the flowers so we can tell her how lovely her garden is?”

“Excellent idea.” Though he wanted to offer her his arm, he decided better of it since his mother continued to watch him out of the corner of her eye. He didn’t want her to get any ideas. She’d only be more disappointed when he eventually told her and his father that he didn’t intend to marry.

He gestured for Charlotte to lead the way.

Rather than the formalized, symmetrical gardens such as the French ones so popular in years gone by, Aunt Prudence preferred English influences with curved pathways, natural-looking ponds, and flowers and shrubbery left to grow in a haphazard fashion. The result was more pleasing than he could’ve imagined.

Charlotte’s sincere delight in the various plants she paused to admire caused him to view them in a new light. A whimsical statue of a cherub caught her eye, bringing her to a halt again.

“Your aunt’s garden rivals the conservatory we visited. Having a garden such as this to wander in would be a treasure, don’t you think?” she asked then turned to him, clearly waiting for a response.

“Quite peaceful,” he agreed with a smile. Charlotte was an excellent listener. That was one of the many qualities he admired about her.

They continued on their way, their conversation easy, and he realized he truly did feel more peaceful between the beautiful garden and his lovely companion. He drew it in, determined to hold on to it and etch it into his mind to pull out during one of the dark nights to come.

At that moment, he realized he wasn’t ready to let her go. He needed more of all she offered—the optimism, the fresh way she viewed the world. All of it. He needed more time with Charlotte.

“Have you planned your next adventure?”

“No, I haven’t.” She studied him with one brow raised. Then a dimple flashed, weakening his knees. “I don’t suppose you’re offering to accompany me?” The hope in her tone and her eyes slayed him.

“I thought to venture to Astley’s Amphitheatre. Would you care to join me?”

Those eyes went wide and both dimples appeared. He was in serious trouble.

“I would love that. When shall we go?”

Chapter Fourteen

Astley’s Royal Amphitheatre was part circus and part theatre, renowned for its equestrian and military dramas. Charlotte had attended several performances during her youth but hadn’t returned in the past few years. It had been destroyed by a fire in 1803 but rebuilt with lavish improvements which made it even more popular.

Though she looked forward to the performance, even more, she looked forward to being with James. The fact that he’d been the one to suggest it thrilled her. She’d been certain he would avoid her, or at the very least, insist she not attempt additional outings after the last one had ended so disastrously.

“How exciting,” she murmured when they met outside the theatre as evening approached.

“Surely you’ve attended many times.” He eyed the large building warily, making her wonder if entering concerned him.

“Not for several years.” She turned to her chaperone. “Allow me to introduce my former governess, Miss Weston.”

James exchanged pleasantries with the older woman, and they moved toward the entrance.

When James suggested she select the day they attend, she’d thought to go as soon as possible. But when she discovered the upcoming performances were historical military dramas, she decided to wait for the equestrian show, certain James would enjoy it more.

The covered theatre contained a sizeable stage and circus ring that allowed for hundreds of performers. There were also boxes, a gallery, and a pit from which to view them, depending on one’s budget.

The true challenge with the outing had been finding who might accompany them. She couldn’t risk going without a proper chaperone when they might easily be seen by someone they knew.

She settled on Miss Weston, who had accompanied her on occasion in the past and had her mother’s full approval as she knew Miss Weston wouldn’t let Charlotte out of her sight. Miss Weston had been a pleasant if strict governess. Charlotte had always enjoyed her company, at times feeling closer to her than her own mother. She’d retired and lived with her sister and her family in London.

They entered the theatre and made their way to an upper box. Charlotte stayed next to James, pleased when she managed to sit beside him though Miss Weston, who took her chaperoning duties seriously, sat on her other side.

When the show began, a dozen white horses pranced into the ring with daring riders on their backs who rode backward and along the sides of the horses. Soon after, a young woman with a beautiful voice took the stage along with other performers. The singing was delightful, the horses and their riders amazing. The antics of a clown had the audience roaring with laughter. One rider stood astride two cantering horses while playing a pipe, much to the delight of the cheering crowd.

Charlotte enjoyed watching the spectators nearly as much as the performance. She pointed out a family with five children to James, their eyes wide with awe.

Much to her relief, the only loud noises were an occasional drum. She knew how much such startling sounds bothered James. She watched him closely to make certain he was comfortable with the performance, relieved when he chuckled and applauded with the rest of the audience.

All too soon, it was over.

“I don’t know why I waited so long to attend a performance again,” Charlotte said as they rose from their seats. “That was wonderful.”

“I need to work on my horse’s training.” James shook his head, obviously impressed with the animals.

“Can you imagine being able to