“As you wish,” Edwina said, her curiosity piqued.
All humor left Bennett’s face as he shared, “I read your father’s will and confirmed that he left you ten thousand pounds. I’m sorry that I doubted you.”
“I understand why you did,” Edwina said.
“I didn’t want it to be true,” Bennett sighed.
Edwina placed a hand on his sleeve. “I’m sorry,” she murmured, knowing her words were wholly inadequate at this moment.
Bennett’s eyes looked tired as he said, “I will speak to my father at once and try to get this all sorted out.”
An idea came to Edwina. “What if I spoke to Mr. Stanley first?” she asked.
“Why would you speak to my father’s man of business?”
“I have known Mr. Stanley most of my life and he has always been kind to me,” Edwina shared. “He might be able to give us some insight on your father’s reasonings.”
Bennett’s next words hung heavy with regret. “I’m afraid I can’t go with you tomorrow. I had planned to go angling with Winston.”
“I can go with Lord Hilgrove,” she said. She wanted to spend time with Miles but tried to hide her eagerness from Bennett.
Her cousin’s brow furrowed in thought as he considered her suggestion. After a long moment, he spoke again. “I am not sure if that is wise.”
“Whyever not?”
Bennett’s expression grew even more concerned as he explained, “Miles is fighting a battle within himself right now.”
With a knowing look, Edwina asked, “Aren’t we all?”
“Yes, but I don’t know what the outcome will be,” Bennett replied. “However, I don’t want you to give up on him. Not yet.”
Unsure of his meaning, Edwina asked, “Whatever do you mean?”
A cocky grin came to Bennett’s lips. “Why did you think I invited Miles to Brockhall Manor?” he asked. “I had a feeling the two of you could help each other through your struggles. Perhaps even find love along the way.”
“You orchestrated this?”
“I did, and I am still hopeful,” Bennett replied.
Edwina arched an eyebrow. “Now who is the optimistic one?” she teased.
Bennett chuckled. “I just want you to be happy, Cousin. No matter what path you choose. But I will say that Miles has been good for you.”
“He has,” she agreed. “He is a good man.”
“Yes, he is.”
The dinner bell chimed in the distance, beckoning them to come.
Glancing towards the door, Bennett asked, “Shall we take another look to see if Miles is approaching?”
Embarrassment washed over her and she responded with a slight wince, “You saw that?”
“I did indeed, but I find it rather encouraging.”
Edwina went to open the door. “Why don’t we just walk down together?”
“All right.”
