With a frown on her lips, Henrietta admitted, “It isn’t about what happened in Hyde Park.”
“Then what is it about?”
“Lord Featherstone is pursuing my sister, and she is falling for his lies,” she explained. “I’m afraid I am not pleased by the whole situation.”
“You have every right not to be, since Lord Featherstone is a notorious rake.”
“He had the nerve to flirt with me even though he came to call on my sister.”
Lord Charles visibly tensed. “He flirted with you?”
“Yes, but I didn’t give it much heed.”
“You were wise not to,” Lord Charles said.
Henrietta clasped her hands in front of her. “I know she cares for Lord Brixton, but she is being charmed by a rake.”
“Then we must do everything in our power to ensure Lord Featherstone and your sister don’t end up together.”
“How do you propose that we do that?”
Lord Charles gave her an amused look. “Must I think of all the solutions?” he teased.
“I just thought you might have the answer, since you are so incredibly wise.”
He chuckled. “I see that you are resorting to flattery now.”
“Did it work?”
“It did,” he replied. “I am always charmed by a pretty face and flowery words.”
A smile came to her face. “Thank you for cheering me up,” she said, secretly pleased by his words. “I’m afraid I have had the most awful day.”
“That is what a pretend suitor does.”
Henrietta’s smile dimmed. “Are you not the least bit worried about your reputation suffering by being associated with me?”
“I am not,” he replied, “and neither should you be.”
“But—”
“You must trust me on this,” he said, interrupting her excuses.
“I do trust you.”
“Then I shall take that as a win and depart before you change your mind.” Lord Charles offered his arm. “May I escort you back inside?”
“You may,” Henrietta said as she accepted it.
“I’ll call upon you tomorrow, and we shall take a carriage ride through Hyde Park during the fashionable hour.”
She arched an eyebrow. “Are you sure that is wise?”
“I am,” he said. “It will get the gossips’ tongues wagging.”
“Then I shall be looking forward to it.”
8
