As they rode, he kept his own horse well back, instead of riding beside her. At last Louisa slowed to a canter and beckoned him forward.
“Don’t keep away from me, Roderick,” she said. “You are the only one I can talk to.”
“I wish I could help you, Miss Hatton.”
“I feel as if a net has been spread out for me, and I am being lured into it bit by bit. I struggle, but it’s no use. I don’t know my parents any more. All they care about is Lord Westbridge and his money.”
“Westbridge is a heavy gambler,” Roderick stated, dropping the ‘Lord’ and speaking of the man with open contempt. “Perhaps your father owes him money.”
“Papa gave up gambling years ago. Besides, my father loves me. He would never – what a horrible idea! Oh, no, it’s impossible!”
“Westbridge wants you,” Roderick said. “He ha
