Graham focused intently on her the entire time, as though he truly cared about everything she had to say.
He appeared to ponder her words for a moment and then leaned forward. “I am expecting information on my estates and holdings in a few days. Perhaps you might like to give them a look and give me your assessment.”
She clasped her hands together at her chest. “Do you mean it?”
“Of course. I’d appreciate your input.”
It was almost too good to be true. It wasn’t common for a man of their society to ask a woman for help or input. But it was just the kind of partnership she had wanted with a husband. Her practical match that she was so hellbent on before her entire world shifted.
Suddenly, all she could think about was how entranced she’d been with him. And as much as she didn’t want to judge him by his relations, but given their situation, she couldn’t help but wonder if he might honor their marriage vows. And she had to know.
“Once we are married, do you intend that we will lead separate lives?”
It was the most proper way she could think to ask what she really wanted to know.
His face contorted to a deep frown. “Is that what you want?”
“No,” she said quickly, before she could stop herself.
“Good,” he replied, releasing a long breath as if he were relieved, which put her more at ease.
“It sounds like we are starting things as well as we can,” she said, trying to alleviate the awkwardness. “I suppose that is better than most marriages. We might even spend a bit of time together.”
Graham opened his mouth to say something and then closed it again.
“What? Tell me what you were going to say.”
He remained quiet for a moment, then glanced over at Lydia and then lowered his voice. “I thought perhaps after we’re married, I might teach you to ride a horse. We could spend time together that way, if you’d like.”
Diana’s breath caught. “You would really teach me?”
“If you want to learn. I know your father forbade it, but as my wife…” His voice trailed off, but she understood his meaning.
“I would love that more than anything.” Diana leaned forward eagerly and lowered her voice to a whisper. “But why wait until after we’re married? We could start now, couldn’t we?”
Graham shifted uncomfortably. “Well, your brother hates me enough as it is, and your father is likely to feel the same. They would never allow you to come to my home for riding lessons.”
“They don’t need to know.”
Graham looked torn. “Your brother will have my head if he finds out.”
Diana glanced quickly at Lydia to see that she was still intently focused on her embroidery, then back at Graham. “I don’t want to wait. I’ve dreamed of this for years. Can I even just meet your horse?” She looked up at him through her lashes. “Please, Graham.”
It was the first time she’d referred to him in such an intimate way, and it appeared to have the desired effect. And she watched his resolve crumble.
“Fine. But we will only start with the basics until after we are married.”
“Take your leave now, and I shall walk you out,” Diana chirped, practically bouncing with excitement.
Graham just shook his head at her and then rose from his seat. “I’ve enjoyed our time together, my lady. We shall do this again soon.”
Diana tried not to giggle at his stiff exchange.
“Good day, Lady Snowdon,” he called over to Lydia.
She looked up and nodded at him.
“I’ll walk you out,” Diana said, rising from her seat. Lydia wouldn’t follow if she just walked him to the door.
