That seemed to catch his attention. “Explain.”
She wanted to stand and pace again, but refrained from doing so. He had sat back down too, and looked quite comfortable with his elbow on the chair arm, his face resting on his hand and his legs loosely crossed.
“I am not really looking forward to reentering society. I’d do it for Elizabeth if I had to, but I thought of another solution that might work out better for everyone.”
He just nodded to encourage her to keep talking.
“What about if we hired a professional chaperone to introduce Elizabeth to society?”
“What is a professional chaperone?”
“Oh, some aristocratic ladies who have fallen on hard times take on charges. They present the girls to the Queen and chaperone them during the season. They obtain invitations to all the most important events of the season, and overall ensure the girls make good matches. If we hired someone like that for Elizabeth, it might be better for her. An influential lady would sponsor her and I could stay here at the estate helping the countess and you, if you still want my help.” The last came out in a rush and she felt heat flood her face.
His lips pursed as if he wanted to smile. “The idea sounds good on the surface, and very tempting. Trust me, I’m not looking forward to entering society either. But I’m not sure Elizabeth would like to have her come out without her family. And foisting her on a stranger might also give her the impression that I don’t care about her.”
“Oh! I had not seen it that way. But you are right. And Elizabeth already feels somewhat neglected.”
“So I have gathered.” He mumbled, but didn’t elaborate.
How did he know that’s how the girl feels? Had he talked to her?
“So all considered, that might not be the best idea. There’s also another matter.” He continued. “I have been thinking it is time I got married.”
Her breath caught, and her heart squeezed painfully in her chest at those words. A stupid reaction. Of course, he had to marry! It had nothing to do with her.Hemeant nothing to her. Perhaps if she kept telling herself that, it would become true.
“Of course, I understand, my lord. You wish to partake in the season yourself and find a bride. Commendable on your part.” There seemed to be a lump in her throat as she swallowed.
He snorted. “You mistake me Abigail. I don’t wish to partake in the season at all. But I need to find a wife. If for no other reason than to provide an heir to the earldom. Let me think about all this. Tell Elizabeth I’ll have an answer for her before the end of the week. Actually, don’t tell her anything. I will do it. It is time I talked to her.”
“She will be very glad, my lord.” She inclined her head and stood to leave with as much dignity as possible. Really, there was only so much battering a woman’s heart could take with good grace.
He wanted to marry. Probably a young, vivacious, beautiful girl who could bear his children. A handsome and wealthy earl like him would have no problem securing a match. The ton would consider him quite the catch. Debutantes would flock to him and throw themselves at his feet. He might be married by the end of the season.
And if the prospect made her heart bleed? She closed the door softly behind her. Who cares about her heart, anyway?
Foolish heart.
