Finding herself amused by his antics, she asked, “If that is the case, why are you whispering?”
He shrugged. “Sometimes the truth hurts.”
“And you speak the truth?”
Bringing a hand to his chest, Lord Dunsby replied, “Always.”
Delphine took a brief moment to study the handsome Lord Dunsby. His sharp jawline was accentuated by faint stubble. His dark hair was brushed forward and fell slightly longer than was considered fashionable. But she found it suited him, giving him an air of ruggedness and mystery. His piercing blue eyes danced with mirth, and she couldn’t help but be charmed by him.
Knowing that she must look a fright to him, Delphine brought a hand to the bandage around her head.
Lord Dunsby leaned forward in his seat, the concern etched on his face. “Are you in pain? Is this conversation too taxing for you?” His voice was gentle yet strong, making her feel seen and cared for.
“No, the pounding in my head has finally started to subside,” Delphine admitted with a sigh of relief.
“That is good,” Lord Dunsby said. “Now where were we? Would you like to know what sports I excel in? I assure you that the list is extensive and it could take quite some time.”
Delphine lowered her hand to the covers. “As intriguing as that sounds, perhaps you can tell me more about your family.”
Lord Dunsby bobbed his head. “I have a younger brother named Winston. He is a prominent barrister in London and he is much more serious than me. But I urge you to never get into a debate with him. He can be rather persistent.”
“Understood. I will not debate with Lord Winston.”
“After Winston, I have twin sisters named Elodie and Melody. Elodie says- and does- the most outlandish things and Melody is much more reserved, albeit quite stubborn,” Lord Dunsby shared. “They all adore me. Relentlessly, in fact.”
Delphine could feel the weight of her burdens seem much more tolerable as she listened to Lord Dunsby. He had a way of making her feel at ease and she felt comfortable around him. It was as if she had known him for years.
“What of your parents?” she asked.
Lord Dunsby put his hands out to his sides. “My father is a stickler for propriety, but he does have a good heart. And my mother is one of the most generous people you will ever meet. She has a knack for making you feel accepted, no matter the situation.”
Delphine felt herself nod in agreement. “Lady Dallington was very kind to me when I met her earlier. I am most grateful for her hospitality.”
“You are welcome here,” Lord Dunsby said. “No doubt my sisters appreciate it since it will take my mother’s attention away from them for a few days. My mother is preparing them for the Season and has been rather relentless. I found Elodie hiding in a closet to get away from my mother a few days ago.”
“That seems rather drastic.”
Lord Dunsby chuckled. “Not for Elodie,” he said. “On her trip home from boarding school, the driver grew ill so she stepped in and drove the coach.”
Delphine’s brow shot up. “How did she even know to do such a thing?”
“I never said that she did it well, just that she did it,” Lord Dunsby replied. “My father was outraged when he found out, but my sisters insisted it was the only way.”
With a wave of her hand, Delphine said, “That sounds so much like my friend, Charlotte. She hasn’t driven a coach but she wouldn’t hesitate…” Her words came to an abrupt stop and her eyes grew wide. “I have a friend!”
Lord Dunsby’s eyes crinkled around the edges. “I did not doubt that for a second. Most people have at least one friend. I have many, in fact. Too many to count.”
“You don’t understand. I can remember Charlotte. She is tall, blonde, thin- but not too thin- and she has an infectious laugh,” Delphine said.
“Well, I am glad you clarified her ‘thinness.’ If she was too thin, I doubt you could be friends with her,” Lord Dunsby teased.
Delphine bit her lower lip. “She lives in…” Her voice trailed off as she willed herself to remember. It was on the tip of her tongue. Where did Charlotte live?
Lord Dunsby’s calming voice interrupted her thoughts. “Do not try to force it,” he advised. “It will come. Just be patient.”
She heard his words of advice but she wanted to do this.Sheneededto do this. As she forced herself to remember, her mind suddenly cleared and she knew the answer. “Skidbrooke,” Delphine shouted triumphantly. “Charlotte lives in Skidbrooke and so do I. That is where my country estate is.”
“Your country estate?” Lord Dunsby asked. “What else do you remember?”
