Lady Bellmore exchanged a look with her husband. Out of the corner of his eye, Dominic noticed that Charlotte’s two sisters were looking at each other, but neither seemed surprised at his request.She has told them — but how much, I wonder?
“How long will this gathering be?” the Earl asked.
“Unfortunately, I do not know. I imagine it will not be overly long. Perhaps a month or so; definitely not past the end of the season.”
“That is quite some time.” Lord Bellmore looked thoughtful.
“My grandmother, though I love her dearly, is rather eccentric and has organised various events she would like us to join in whilst we are there.” Dominic ran a hand through his hair and added, “The Caverton estate is rather large; there will be plenty of space for your daughter and her chaperone and any servants you may wish to bring.”
“I will, of course, accompany Charlotte myself,” Lady Bellmore said after a minute. “You must thank the Dowager Duchess for such a kind invitation; I am sure Charlotte will be most delighted to accompany you.”
“Of course, I look forward to meeting the Duke’s family,” Charlotte replied.
“Then it is settled, and I must thank you for allowing Charlotte to join me. I look forward to sharing in both your company,” Dominic beamed.
“Perhaps this will finally spur you to purchase a new dress; after all, it has been some years since you have done so, Charlotte.” Lady Bellmore looked meaningfully at her daughter.
“Years? That is rather a long time to go without such a thing. Most young women I know seem to have at least three new dresses a season.” The Duke canted his head towards Charlotte, who to his surprise coloured and looked slightly embarrassed.I wonder if this is a symptom of some financial trouble.
“Yes, she insisted that she had no need of such things as she had no desire to attract a husband.” Lady Bellmore took a sip of her wine. “Thankfully, her sisters are more than happy to follow the fashions of the ton.”
Dominic glanced at Lady Evelyn and Lady Philippa and realised that both of them were dressed in the most current fashion. By contrast, Charlotte was wearing a simple dress that was nice but clearly far from new.
He recalled the way she seemed to do everything for her sisters and suspected that Lady Bellmore did not see the truth of Charlotte’s refusal. After all, supporting three daughters out in society would be no easy feat.
“This is why I was so surprised to hear of your engagement.” Lady Bellmore’s voice brought Dominic back to the present.
“Well, as you yourself said, mother, I clearly just needed to meet the right man,” Charlotte replied smoothly though her cheeks had reddened.
“And so you have,” Dominic added. “And I am very grateful for it.”
The table lapsed into silence as the servants began to clear away the dinner plates. After a moment the Earl said, “My dear Duke, would you care to join me in my study for a glass of whiskey? I have several of Byron’s works and some of Blake’s that you may wish to borrow.”
Out of the corner of his eye, Dominic noticed that Charlotte’s eyes widened in surprise, but before he could puzzle at it, Lady Philippa said, “Father, youneverlend anyone your books. Much less your poetry!”
The Earl smiled at his daughter. “Well, the Duke will soon be family, and I have no doubt he will take good care of all that is precious to me.”
“I will treat anything you hold dear with the utmost care.” Dominic inclined his head towards Lord Bellmore, feeling an odd stab through his chest.He is worried about his daughter. “And I would be honoured to join you in your study.”
“Excellent. I will —” the Earl began, but Charlotte cut him off.
“Actually, father, I wonder if you might permit me a moment with my fiancé before you adjourn together? Just a quick stroll in the garden,; one of the maids can accompany us.” Charlotte rested a gentle hand on her father’s arm.
“Of course, my dear. I would not want to stand in the way of young love.” Lord Bellmore gave her a kiss on the head.
“Thank you, Father,” Charlotte answered.
Dominic kept his face neutral as he stood, bowing to the Earl and his wife as he moved towards Charlotte. Her expression was unreadable, and he found himself wondering just what she wanted to talk to him about.Perhaps she means to give me some advice to win her father over though he already seems to be fond of me.
Together, they made their way towards the garden, one of the maids following a little behind them. The night air was cool against his skin, and he fell into step beside Charlotte.
Before he could ask what she wanted of him, his ‘fiancée’ hissed, “Just what on Earth do you think you’re doing?”
Chapter Six
NOT LIKE THIS
“What do you mean?” the Duke asked softly, matching Charlotte’s low tone to avoid being overheard. “I am currently enjoying a quiet walk in the gardens with my intended.”
