Promises

Chapter 4-1

Chapter 4

Charles watched as the man sat before him stared fixedly at the cat on his lap, large hands gently stroking. What on earth was that supposed to mean. He didn’t give the impression of being a maudlin sort. Those dark eyes alternately signalled every emotion and then hid them. His annoyance at the suggestion that he make his own way in the world had been clear as day, but now, now he was as closed and unreadable as the cat who watched the conversation back and forth balefully. It really was only a matter of time before he sunk his claws in.

Charles wasn’t sure how to respond, but felt he needed to at least acknowledge that statement. “That’s…a strange thing to say.”

Farrah looked up briefly, eyes shadowed, and shrugged. “I’ve had a go at most things, but…” He shrugged with one shoulder and ran a finger down Ulysses’ nose. Charles held his breath.

“I don’t have the patience for study, or the clergy. I don’t have an artistic bone in my body. I thought that perhaps the one thing I might be good for is fighting the French. I’m a big chap, and I’m not afraid.” He shrugged again.

Charles watched, amazed as Ulysses closed his eyes and rubbed his face against Farrah’s finger. “You seem to have a way with animals, he’s usually savaged most people by this point.”

Farrah smiled and looked up. “I love animals. They generally get on with me. They don’t care if you’re stupid as long as you’re kind.” He smoothed his ears.

Stupid? Charles uncrossed his legs and watched. Perhaps it was best to change the subject. “So, what would you like to do tomorrow? I can take you about and show you around if you like.”

“Thank you, that would be kind. What passes for society in these parts? You don’t seem to have any neighbours close by.”

Charles pushed his spectacles up his nose. “We are ten miles from the next property or town. I don’t socialise.” He watched that sink in and had to admire Farrah’s fortitude when he didn’t visibly sag.

“Ah. Just us then.”

“And my man Coulson and the groom, Blackstone.”

“No Mrs. Hawkins?”

Charles shook his head. “No. I take it there is no Mrs. Farrah?”

Farrah blinked a couple of times. He lifted his gaze from the cat to look directly at him. “No. Not the marrying kind.” His voice was low. Soft. “Are you?”

Charles found breathing difficult as warmth spread through his entire body. He had to look away as he cleared his throat. “Would you like a walk around the grounds before we retire?” The light was starting to fade. Charles was surprised at how long they had spent just talking.

Farrah watched him for a moment longer, then looked back at the cat. “That would be pleasant. Ah, what time do you usually retire?”

“In about half an hour.”

Farrah actually laughed, displaying that annoying dimple to full advantage. “I’m usually getting ready to go out at this time.”

Charles stood and shook his head, thankful for the change of topic. “Ah, the vigour of youth.”

Farrah lifted the somnambulant cat and placed him gently on the floor. Ulysses immediately turned his back and washed his foot.