Page 153 of A Duchess for his Family

“Benedict,” Sophia murmured beside Benedict, “perhaps we might preserve diplomatic relations.”

“With the cat?”

“With my brother-in-law.”

Philip inclined his head. Benedict sighed.

“Remove the animal.”

Marjorie whispered loudly to Amelia. “He means Admiral.”

“I am aware.”

“You looked worried.”

“I was not worried.”

Nathaniel raised his glass. “An excellent family resemblance develops.”

Benedict ignored him. Conversation moved easily around the table. Emma and Frances asked Sophia about Rivermere, though Benedict suspected they already knew most answers through letters.

“You truly like it here?” Frances asked.

Sophia glanced at Benedict.

“I do.”

“Even in winter?”

“Yes.”

“With him forbidding things?”

Benedict looked at Frances. Sophia’s mouth trembled.

“He forbids fewer things now.”

“I have become more reasonable,” Benedict explained amusedly.

The entire table went silent. Then Nathaniel laughed so loudly Lord Keswick nearly spilled his wine.

“I beg everyone’s pardon,” Nathaniel cleared his throat. “Something improbable occurred.”

Sophia covered her smile with her napkin.

Benedict leaned slightly toward her. “You are encouraging them.”

“I have done nothing.”

“You are smiling.”

“That is not an offense.”

“Not yet.”

Sophia’s eyes warmed. Beneath the table, her hand found his. Benedict turned his palm upward and threaded his fingers through hers. No one noticed, or perhaps everyone did and chose not to comment… except Nathaniel.

Nathaniel noticed everything that was inconvenient. His gaze dipped briefly toward the tablecloth, then returned to Benedict’s face. He smiled. Benedict stared at him until he wisely turned away.