Bennett was enjoying his time bantering with Delphine, which had become one of his favorite pastimes, but he did need to inform Delphine about one thing. And it was important.
In a solemn voice, Bennett said, “A footman saw Miss Eden enter Mr. Simpkin’s bedchamber this afternoon. With this information, Winston believes we could petition for a divorce, assuming the judge does not grant a ruling to nullify it.”
Delphine reared back, visibly shaken. “Charlotte wouldn’t do such a thing,” she insisted. “The footman must have been mistaken.”
Bennett cast a glance towards Grady, who remained steadfast in his position guarding the entry hall. “I’m afraid not,” he said.
“No. If word ever got out, Charlotte would be ruined,” Delphine said. “Surely there must be a reasonable explanation for her visiting Mr. Simpkin’s bedchamber.”
“Is there ever a good enough reason for a young woman to visit a man’s bedchamber… alone?” Bennett asked.
Delphine’s eyes grew determined. “I will not petition for divorce based upon adultery,” she declared. “I won’t do that to my friend.”
“What if the judge does not approve voiding your marriage?” Bennett asked.
“He will,” Delphine stated.
As he was about to argue with her, his mother’s voice came from the doorway, interrupting their conversation. “We are about to have dessert,” she informed them. “Will you two be joining us?”
Delphine bobbed her head. “Dessert sounds wonderful.”
The last thing Bennett wanted was dessert but it was evident that Delphine was done with this conversation.
Offering his arm to Delphine, he asked, “May I escort you back to the dining room?”
Delphine placed her hand on his sleeve. “Thank you, my lord,” she replied.
Bennett had to respect the fierce loyalty that Delphine had for her friend, but she had to think of herself right now.
Delphine sat at the dressing table while the maid styled her hair. She yawned and she made no attempt to hide it. She had the most restless night of sleep because she couldn’t silence the relentless thoughts in her head.
She wondered if Charlotte could truly be having an affair with Mr. Simpkin. She wanted to believe Bennett, but it seemed so far-fetched. Charlotte had never done anything that was the least bit scandalous and visiting a gentleman’s room would ruin her reputation. It just didn’t make any sense.
Not that it mattered. She harbored no affection for Mr. Simpkin and was looking forward to their marriage being voided. She knew it might take some time, but some things were worth the wait. And Bennett was one of those things. She would do anything to be with him. He had her whole heart, and she didn’t want it back.
A smile came to her lips as she recalled their conversation from the night before. He had offered to escort her home, knowing it would come at great risk to both of their reputations. Bennett hadn’t declared his intentions for her, but she knew he cared for her. She could see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice.
The maid dropped her hands and took a step back. “Do you like your hair, my lady?”
Delphine turned her head to admire the fancy coiffure in the mirror. “I do,” she replied. “Thank you.”
A knock came at the door.
“Enter,” Delphine ordered.
The door opened and Charlotte stepped into the room. “Good morning,” she greeted with a smile.
“Good morning,” Delphine said.
Charlotte glanced at the maid before inquiring, “I came to see how you are faring this morning. You were rather quiet after meeting with your cousin.”
Delphine let out a groan. “I cannot stand Vincent.”
“Did he say anything that upset you?”
“Everything out of his mouth upsets me,” Delphine huffed. “I have never met a more vexing man.”
Charlotte sat down on the settee and asked, “Do you believe that he just came to ensure you are well?”
