“And I assume this picture of perfection is the woman who is unlucky enough to be promised to our own Dorson?” Benjamin winked at Charlotte.
Dominic saw Charlotte’s cheeks flush with colour as she nodded and said, “I am Lady Charlotte Nettle, Daughter of Earl Bellmore.”
“A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Nettle. I am Benjamin Alders, third son to Baron Grimbsy.” Benjamin grinned at her.
“And yours, Mr. Grimbsy.” Charlotte inclined her head towards him.
“And how did you two meet?” Georgiana gestured between the two of them.
“We were introduced at Lord Winterbloom’s ball,” Charlotte replied smoothly.
“I do not recall seeing either of you dancing at the ball.” Cecily frowned.
“I had a need of air, and we spent much of it talking on the veranda,” Dominic interjected. “And unfortunately, I had to leave early. I had a spot of trouble with one of my business ventures that needed tending to. That is why I like to think of our first meeting as Lady Danterbury’s masquerade.”
“Business kept you from spending time with Lady Charlotte? And you still agreed to marry him?” Benjamin shook his head in disbelief.
“Lady Charlotte knows where my priorities are. She understands what is important,” Dominic replied, shrugging.
“I do indeed.” Charlotte agreed, an odd look flitting across her face.
“I would have given him an earful.” Cecily gave him a frank look. “Honestly, if any man had wished to court me and then abandoned me for business, he would get the sharp end of my tongue.”
“Well, it is a good thing that My Lady is not as fiery as you. She is rather more patient and amenable,” he teased.
“She must be if she is to put up with you for the rest of her life,” Benjamin laughed.
“And what of the rest of your courtship?” Georgiana asked.
“What do you mean?” Charlotte canted her head towards Cecily.
“Well, how did you two fall in love? I cannot recall seeing the two of you together often.” Cecily looked between Dominic and Charlotte.
“Yes, Dorson, the whole affair seems rather cloak and dagger — an engagement that suddenly comes about in time for these games? A little convenient, do you not think?” Benjamin gave him a suspicious look. “Especially from a cousin who has been so staunchly against such things.”
“I have had other priorities.” Dominic shrugged. “Perhaps I was simply waiting until I found the right woman.”
“A woman you have rarely been seen with and whom no one even knew you were courting.” Benjamin narrowed his eyes.
“Our courtship was an unusual one,” Charlotte said.
“Indeed, it was. After all, I was away for most of the season,” Dominic added.
“How on Earth did you court?” Cecily exclaimed.
“We wrote each other letters,” Dominic gestured vaguely.
“Letters?” Benjamin raised an eyebrow.
“Yes, letters,” Dominic said. “You know they say that absence makes the heart grow fonder, and well… clearly, it has worked. After all, my darling fiancée is terribly fond of me.”
“And that was what drew you to Dorson?” Benjamin asked. “I imagine a woman like you could have her pick of men.”
“Perhaps it is my irresistible good looks and charm,” Dominic replied, with a slight pang of irritation as he noticed the way Charlotte smiled at Benjamin.
“Well, it was certainly not your humility,” Charlotte retorted.
“Why be humble when you can be amiable?” Dominic shrugged, winking at Charlotte.
