As Hawthorne walked further into the room, he said, “You were missed at the House of Lords today.”
“I met all day with my man of business, but I do intend to go tomorrow for the vote.”
“That’s good.”
William set his empty glass on the table next to him. “Not that I am complaining, but what brings you here?”
“I came to see how you are faring.”
“That’s a waste of time, then,” William said. “I am fine.”
Hawthorne claimed the seat next to him. “You always say that.”
“Yet you don’t seem to believe me.”
“You forget that I know you.”
William picked up his glass and rose. “You are worrying about nothing.” He walked over to the drink cart. “Would you care for a drink?”
“I would.”
“I’m afraid you came all this way for nothing,” William said as he poured a pair of drinks.
“That is for me to decide.”
William extended a glass to Hawthorne. “Why don’t you say what you need to say and be done with it?”
“I’m worried about you.” Hawthorne hesitated. “We all are.”
William put his arms out as if to indicate there was no harm to his person. “There is no need.”
“You hardly attend social events anymore.”
“That is because they are a waste of time.”
With a knowing look, Hawthorne said, “You didn’t use to think so.”
“I’ve changed.”
“I know, and it has me concerned.”
William returned to his seat. “You are a good friend, but it would be best if you leave it alone. This is something that I need to get through on my own.”
“You are not alone,” Hawthorne asserted. “You have friends that care for you, whether you want us to or not, and we can help you.”
“How?”
Hawthorne placed his glass onto the table. “Dine with Dinah and me tomorrow night,” he encouraged. “It would be good for you to get your mind off your mother.”
“Did your wife put you up to this?”
“Perhaps, but I would have eventually thought of it,” Hawthorne said cheekily.
“I doubt it.”
Hawthorne looked at him expectantly. “Does this mean you will come?” he asked hopefully.
William let out a reluctant sigh. “I wouldn’t dare turn down an invitation from Lady Hawthorne.”
