“I’m sorry.”
She gave a small, appreciative nod. “My parents married for love, despite their families’ objections. It caused quite the scandal in their day.”
He held the door open for her. “Love matches are rare.”
“They are, but I wish they weren’t.”
“In our circles, marriages are more about security than sentiment.”
Miss Theodosia furrowed her brows. “Do you not aspire for love, my lord?”
“Heavens, no. My parents had a marriage of convenience and eventually found affection. I hope for the same.”
“And if affection never grows?”
He shrugged. “Then mutual respect must suffice.”
She stopped in the entry hall and turned towards him. “That’s a rather bleak outlook.”
“No, it’s a pragmatic one,” he replied. “My duty is to marry well and produce heirs to carry on my legacy.”
She tilted her head. “Out of curiosity, what do you consider a suitable match?”
“A well-bred lady with a generous dowry,” he answered honestly.
“How romantic,” she muttered.
Richard heard the sarcasm in her voice, but he chose to ignore it. Instead, he asked, “And what of you? Do you dream of marrying for love? Perhaps even marrying a wealthy lord?”
“No, I don’t care for titles or wealth. I merely want a husband who is kind and present—someone who would raise a family with me in the countryside.”
He studied her. “Why are you not married, then? I am sure there are men lining up to marry you.”
She laughed. “That is kind of you to say, but I’m considered an oddity in my village. I manage an estate, and most men find that… unsettling. Intimidating.”
“Why not let your husband take it over?”
The humor on her face faded. “Because I’m perfectly capable of doing it myself.”
He lifted his hands. “I meant no offense.”
“Forgive me,” she said with a wry smile. “I can be defensive where my father’s estate is concerned.”
He stepped closer. “It’s your estate now, is it not?”
“Technically, yes, considering my sister has all but abandoned it… and me,” she admitted.
“Then I commend you. Not many women could manage such responsibility.”
Her eyes narrowed. “Are you complimenting me?”
“Yes. At least I’m trying to.”
A slow smile curved her lips. “I’m not used to this truce between us. I keep expecting an insult.”
“There won’t be one. Not today.”
She eyed him curiously. “Did your mother put you up to this?”
