Katherine took a long breath as Eward approached, trying desperately to calm herself. She could not show fear or dread, lest he make something out of this encounter that was not there. And Daphne deserved to hear what had gone on from her, not by deducing it from awkward conversations. But Katherine found it sufficiently difficult to concentrate on being ladylike and respectful as Eward came nearer. He was fresh from the hunt, his arms tight and body just that little bit exhausted, enough to give him an air of strange, manly dignity without his having said a word. Granted, Eward always tried to exude overconfidence, but now it looked natural, not forced, and certainly not overwhelming, and it made Katherine question her resolve.
Swallowing, she replied as politely as she dared, "Lord Mountford-Miles, I am afraid none knew I would be here with the exception of Miss Wexley," Katherine glanced at Daphne, but very briefly. Shifting, Katherine adjusted her riding cloak around her shoulders, trying to conceal the fitted, feminine day dress she had worn, for it made her feel exposed. "I am...quite well," she lied, nodding her head.