Considering how poorly their ride seemed to be going, Lillian didn't attempt to catch up to him in a great hurry. A lot of things were being turned over in her mind. How she missed being at home, how she thought bitterly that Evelyn would have known how to steer a man from dark to lighter thoughts, and of course, trying to come up with something to talk about that wouldn't have the duke continuing on in a foul mood.
He'd stopped at a nicely shaded spot, good for the horses, and them, honestly. He dismounted as she approached and she again noticed how regal he was. Of course he was, he was a duke, Lillian should expect nothing less. Indeed, his handsome figure was only spoiled by the knowledge of his anger.
Dismounting gracefully she tethered the borrowed mare a suitable distance from the stallion, keeping her mouth shut for a change as she stroked the beautiful white neck before giving it a gentle pat. "She's a beautiful mare, thank you for allowing me her use." It was a timid attempt to rekindle speech.