“Sorry to keep you waiting, Bryan.” I nodded to Ogilvie, the head groom. “I ran into Mother and Johanna.”
“Ah.”
“I’ll get the horses, Mr. Bryan.”
“Thanks, Ogilvie.” Bryan pushed himself away from the fence he’d been lounging against. “Let me take Quinton until you get yourself mounted.”
“You’re just using that as an excuse to hold the baby.”
“I am.” He smiled as he took his nephew in his arms and cradled him, humming softly under his breath. He was going to make the most marvelous father. Not as marvelous as Nigel, of course, but…
“Here you go, Miss Portia.” Ogilvie led out my chestnut mare.
“Thank you. Hello, Penelope. Have you missed me?” She rubbed her nose against my shoulder, and I offered her a sugar cube I’d brought with me. I patted her neck, gathered the reins, and stepped
