“I would have gone today, but I was already promised to my mother. I will attend tomorrow.”
She gave him a look of approval. “Yes, you did mention you would be there for the vote. It is important for all peers to do their duty, even if they do not like politics.”
He remembered part of the conversation he’d had with Exeter and Turley. “Are you thinking of Lord Littleton?”
Miss Stern let out a light sigh. “Yes. He will come to Town for an important vote. But he will not participate in discussions.”
Nate couldn’t see her married to a man who was not politically involved. Although he was sure she’d give her husband a push. “Cannot his wife convince him?”
“Oh, no. Not Adeline.” Miss Stern’s lips flattened, giving her a disgusted look. “She does not care for politics at all.”
He couldn’t help chuckling. “In that case, it’s a good thing they are married to each other.”
“Theyarevery well suited. It is just that we all wish they would take more of an interest.” She tilted her head and gazed at him. “If tomorrow’s vote is important, you might meet him. Littlewood is only about two hours away.”
Nate would like to meet Littleton, but that wouldn’t happen on the morrow. “I’m sorry to disappoint you, but Turley mentioned having Littleton’s proxy.”
“Why . . . oh, the babies. Of course he would not wish to leave so soon.” She must have seen the confusion in his expression. “They had twins a few weeks ago.” She shook her head. “How could I have forgotten?”
Nate thought he knew exactly the reason she forgot. Miss Stern was a lady who could focus her attention on something to the exclusion of all else. He’d like to have her attention on him, but he had a feeling that he’d have to convince her he was worth it.
He glanced at his mother, who was speaking with the duchess. Both of them gave him clear signals they would like to depart. “I believe we are being called by our respective chaperones.”
Miss Stern glanced at the brooch watch pinned to her spencer. “We have been here quite a while.” Nate was pleased when she tucked her hand in the crook of his arm. They started strolling to the door. “It has been lovely speaking with you. I cannot tell you how glad I am that you assisted Mrs. Perriman.”
He bent his head so that only Miss Stern could hear him. “I like being useful. Although I have my correspondence sent to me, at home I also spend time visiting tenants and attending to various other duties. Therefore, I have time on my hands in Town.”
“Enjoy the quiet.” She raised one finely shaped brow. “You will have more than enough to do soon.”
“That sounds daunting.” He’d been on the Town before, but had not really participated in the Season when it came to young ladies.
“It can be.” Her tone was dry, but her eyes twinkled. Was she still comparing him to a young lady making her come out? “At least you will not have to be approved to be able to waltz at Almack’s.”
He thought she would have said more, but they’d reached his mother and her grandmother. Lady Thornhill was with the older ladies, and they bade her farewell.
When they gained the pavement Nate bowed to the duchess. “Your grace, it was a pleasure meeting you.”
“And I was happy to meet you.” She inclined her head.
Miss Stern held out her hand and he took it. “I hope we will see each other again soon.”
“I am certain we will.” She smiled. “After all, you ride in the mornings.”
“I do.” Even though he wanted to continue to stand there with her, duty and good manners demanded he assist the duchess into her town coach. Once she was settled, he handed in Miss Stern. “Until the next time.”
“Yes.” She gave a barely perceptible nod. “Until then.”
He backed up, closed the door, and watched as the vehicle started forward.
His mother touched his arm. “Did you enjoy yourself?”
“I did, but I don’t understand why the duchess allowed me to be alone with her granddaughter.”
Mama lifted one shoulder in a shrug. “You made a good impression on her when she joined us for dinner.”
Obviously he was going to be told no more. He helped his mother into the carriage, then jumped in, settling on the rear-facing bench. “Thank you.”
Mama shook her head. “I will not deny I had something to do with it, but it was you who made the difference.”
