“As was I, especially since the case never went to trial,” Mr. Manley said. “Mr. Clawson fought hard for a summary judgement.”
“I am glad that he was successful; it kept my wife from having to testify in court.”
“That was the intent, my lord.”
Roswell leaned forward in his chair and leaned his arms on the desk. “I assume that Lord Worthington will appeal.”
“Most likely, but Mr. Clawson is already preparing his arguments as to why that shouldn’t be allowed.”
“That pleases me to hear.”
“With any luck, Lady Bideford and Lady Worthington will receive their inheritance in a few months.”
“I know Lady Worthington is rather eager for her jointure.”
“Why is that?”
“She intends to move out and acquire her own household,” Roswell shared. “But I do hope she won’t move too far, for Ellie’s sake.”
“You must be relieved, since most men would rather not live with their mother-in-law,” Mr. Manley remarked, chuckling.
Roswell smiled. “I do not mind Lady Worthington living under our roof,” he said. “Besides, it makes my wife happy, and that is all that matters.”
“Spoken like a man in love.”
“I am not ashamed of that.”
“Nor should you be,” Mr. Manley said, rising. “It is very becoming of you.”
Roswell watched his solicitor depart from the room before seeking out his wife. As he walked towards the drawing room, Ellie’s laughter drifted into the hall, and he knew that was a sound he would never tire of.
Roswell stepped into the room and saw Ellie conversing with her mother. He leaned his shoulder against the door and took a moment to admire her. She looked lovely in her pink gown, her hair loosely coiffed.
Ellie glanced over at him and smiled. “I see that you have finally emerged from your study.”
He straightened from the door. “I’m afraid I have many more hours ahead of me to make up for all the time I was gone.”
“I wish there was some way I could help.”
Sitting next to her, he replied, “Just knowing that you are waiting for me at the end of the day is all the incentive I need.”
Ellie leaned in and gave him a brief kiss. “What a sweet thing to say, dear husband.”
“It is merely the truth,” Roswell responded before turning his attention towards his mother-in-law. “How are you faring, Alice?”
She smiled. “I am well.”
“I am surprised that Mother and Emma aren’t in here, as well,” he commented.
“They went shopping,” Alice replied.
“Of course they did,” he said, smiling. “I do have some good news.”
Ellie shifted in her seat to face him. “You do?”
He nodded. “I just met with my solicitor, and he informed me that the judge ruled in your favor.”
Alice clasped her hands together. “That is wonderful news!”
