Page 26 of An Earl, His Valet, & Their Wife

“Unscorched,” said Molly with a wink, “although I was very tempted. I know the color and style aren’t overly flattering, but the gowns are well-made and unstained. Have you considered donating them to the local parishes?”

“I have, but wasn’t overly sure how to go about it. Do we just ensure everything is laundered and bundle them up?”

“Yes, then we can send footmen out with the parcels. Gowns, petticoats, chemises, shoes, pelisses, coats, anything you don’t want that is in good condition.”

“Then let’s do that, as soon as possible. Madame Odette’s gowns might explode if forced to share an armoire with those my mother selected.”

Molly snorted. “I wouldn’t be surprised. On another matter, have you finalized your ball supper preferences? Mrs. Calder will be wanting to place orders tomorrow.”

Katherine yelped. “Thank you for reminding me! I shall go and see her now.”

As she made her way down the stairs, Katherine scolded herself for being a scatterbrain consumed by books and bedding when there was a household to manage. The topic was rather more complex than she’d imagined; a lady could receive numerous lectures, read dozens of articles on the subject, but nothing compared to the real thing. Especially a very large, very wealthy household. There was so much to remember, so much always going on, sometimes it felt like her mind might melt. How did Gerard do everything so effortlessly?

Argh. No. The last person she should be thinking about was Mr. Hunter. And yet suddenly she could hear his deep, rough burr in the entrance hall, talking to…Michael?

Hitching up her skirts, she hurried down the remaining few stairs. Oh no. Were they discussing her shameful behavior? Surely she should at least get a hearing before being locked in an attic with only mice and ghosts for company.

Katherine. Take a blasted breath. This is real life.

However, seconds later she halted as a startling scene unfolded in front of her like a play. Gerard clapping Michael on the shoulder, before sliding his hand up and caressing Michael’s cheek. In turn, Michael smiling and kissing that hand.

So intimate. So casual. So loving.

Katherine could only stare. Yes, she’d always known they were close, but those actions demonstrated something far more than the familiarity of earl and valet. Far more than friendship, even.

That day in the Queenhill garden…was Gerard the one her husband loved deeply but could not wed?

Reeling, Katherine staggered backward and slumped onto the stairs, wincing at the impact of bottom hitting polished wood. So many things were starting to make sense now. Their absolute comfort in one another’s presence, even with sexual matters. Gerard taking on so many extra tasks usually done by others, such as secretarial duties or pouring and serving in the dining room.

They were a couple. She was the outsider.

And yet…neither had treated her like an outsider. Especially during that most recent bedding, when it had felt more like they’d been a trio. And Gerard’s gift of those wonderful books had been so personal. So perfect. Presented with his gruff, teasing banter that made it seem like he actually cared what she thought. That he wanted to make her happy.

Could they be a trio in truth?

Could two men who loved each other love her as well?

“My lady! Are you well?”

Katherine’s head jerked up to see Mrs. Calder near-sprinting toward her, the portrait of concern. “Quite well,” she mumbled, her cheeks heating as she scrambled to her feet and dusted her backside.

“Did you slip? I can certainly amend the amount of polish used. Or add some carpet. I couldn’t bear it if you injured yourself. Especially if…er…”

If I was carrying the heir. The whole reason for this marriage.

Katherine forced a smile. “I didn’t slip, I promise. I was just contemplating something that required a seat, and the stairs were closest. I’m glad I found you, though—perhaps we could make a list of supper choices for the ball?”

Mrs. Calder hesitated, her glance flicking to the entrance hall and back again. “My lady…”

“Yes?”

“Begging your pardon, but we’re all glad his lordship wed you. I know it hasn’t been long, but I’m quite certain that this could be a very happy household, if a little unconventional. It just takes good men…and good women keeping an open mind and heart. Love doesn’t always arrive in the parcel we think it will, yet with faith and trust and compromise, it can be far more splendid than anyone imagines.”

Katherine blinked.

Oh, the housekeeper knew about Michael and Gerard. And strangely enough, rather than trying to pretend it was nothing, or worse, act as though Katherine hadn’t seen what she’d seen, Mrs. Calder appeared to be tentatively inviting her into the inner circle. Like she was more than just a vessel for the future heir, but actually mattered.

“I quite agree,” Katherine said softly. “Especially in regard to open minds and hearts—”