The following morning, his stepmother had not yet left her room when he rose.
Louisa pounded on his door. “Matt, do hurry, we shall be late.”
“Late for what?”
“Breakfast. We are expected, and you are going to make us late.”
She had to be the only female he knew who insisted on being on time. “I’ll be down directly.”
He should have realized from what Walter had said that they were now taking all their meals together. Just who had made the decision, he’d no idea.
When they arrived, Grace was already at the table orchestrating her brothers and sisters. Matt took a seat next to her.
She greeted him with a small smile. “Good morning, my lord.”
Something was still wrong. If only he knew what it was. “Good morning.” He waved a hand to encompass the table. “I take it this is to be an everyday affair?”
“Yes. Do you mind?”
He smiled. “Not in the least. The idea that I’ll be able to see your charming countenance each morning delights me.”
“Good.” Grace sniffed.
What had he said? “May we discuss some matters after breakfast?”
Her head made sudden small shaking motions. “Not to-day. I need—there are some accounts I must review.”
Simply wrong was quickly becoming very wrong. “Very well, then, later in the day or on the morrow?”
“Yes, of course. Perhaps then.”
After he’d eaten, he left the children at Stanwood House and swiftly strode back across the square.
“In her parlor, my lord,” Thorton said knowingly.
Drat the man! How the devil did he . . . ? “Thank you.”
Matt entered without knocking.
“Worthington, what is this?” Patience glanced up, startled. “There is nothing wrong, I hope.”
“There is, but I don’t have any idea what.” He sat heavily on a delicate French-backed chair that creaked slightly as he’d lowered his weight.
Patience frowned. “Did your conversation with Lord Herndon go well?”
“Yes, better than I’d expected. It appears that some of her father’s relatives have been talking about her guardianship. Lord and Lady Herndon suggested we marry as soon as possible. We’ve chosen the Tuesday after Easter.”
“Matt! That soon?”
“Yes, only family and close friends. I’ll buy the license in the morning. Herndon and I discussed the settlements.” He paused. “After that, Grace was different. I think it was something her aunt said.” He fixed his eyes on Patience. “Do you know what it might have been?”
“Don’t be silly.” Patience raised her brows. “How should I know?”
“Did your mother say anything to you before you married?”
“Yes.” She raised her chin haughtily. “She gave me some very good advice that I would have done well to take. But that is neither here nor there.”
“Patience, I am sorry. I know you weren’t happy . . .”
