“But it can also be full of love.”
He gave her an amused look. “I daresay not for Romeo and Juliet.”
“That wasn’t the ideal ending for the two young lovers, but the story had an endearing message.”
“Only you would consider a tragedy endearing.”
Ellie smiled. “My father used to read to me at bedtime, and he loved Shakespeare. I suppose I have a different take on it because the books bring back such a flood of wonderful memories.”
“My father used to read to me, as well.”
“He did?”
“Yes,” Lord Bideford answered, smiling. “He would read the letters from his stewards and ask how I would handle the questions from our tenants.”
“That sounds rather…” Her voice trailed off as she tried to think of the right word.
“Boring,” he said, finishing her sentence.
She giggled. “Yes, boring.”
“My father was a kind, loving man, but he was very serious when it came to business,” he said. “He knew that one day it would all pass to me, and he wanted me to be prepared.”
“And were you?”
Lord Bideford shook his head. “Even though I knew the day was coming, I was no more prepared for it.”
“I am sorry to hear that.”
He sighed. “I would give everything I have just to spend one more day with my father.”
Ellie bobbed her head. “I feel the same way.”
He gave her a sad smile. “I suppose we don’t get everything that we wish for.”
“No, we don’t.” Ellie paused, then took a step back. “I should be heading back to my bedchamber.”
Lord Bideford rose and extended his arm. “Allow me to escort you back to your room.”
“That is not necessary, my lord.”
“I know, but I want to ensure you arrive safely.”
Knowing it would be rude to refuse, she placed her hand on his arm. “Thank you.”
As they walked out of the library and headed down the hall, Lord Bideford inquired, “May I ask you a question?”
“Is it about how I steal right out from under you without your knowledge?”
“No,” he replied, his brow furrowing, “and I do hope you are just teasing.”
Ellie grinned. “I am, but I just like to remind you that you called me a thief.”
“I did no such thing,” he said in a hushed but stern tone.
Patting his arm, she replied, “I find it is rather enjoyable to goad you. You do get rather defensive.”
He glanced over at her. “Are you ever serious, Miss Bentley?”
