They were nearly finished making the garlands for the Great Hall and still Lord Marsden had not returned. She knew it was extremely foolish of her to wish to spend time with his lordship, but she attributed the desire to the fact that she and Anthea rarely went into company. No doubt, the marquess had lingered in the village discussing business, for their visit probably meant little to him. He likely knew any numbers of young ladies to amuse him in Town. The thought suddenly brought a tightness to Karis's chest. She pushed her musings of the gentleman from her mind, concentrating on her task. She and Anthea could not spend all day at Whiteoaks, no matter the inducement, for someone was likely to wonder about their long absence. Tying the last red bow on the final garland, Karis stood and surveyed the great piles of decorations about the nursery. The kittens frolicked among the clutter. Picking up an grey one who was trying to untie a ribbon, she stroked his soft fur as she admired the garlands.
