Page 73 of Maid for the Marquess

“The village has always been good to me,” I replied.

“They adore her ladyship.”

I felt a grin pull on my lips. “As do I.”

He returned my smile. “I am aware. She has brought your smile back, my friend. She fills this house with sunshine.” He paused as he took a sip of brandy. “Your heart as well, if I might be so bold.”

I sat back, observing him. “And what of Lydia?” I asked. “Or, should I say, Liddy?”

He remained calm, although his cheeks flushed. “What of her? She is very good to Lady Wheaton. They are close.”

“As you appeared to be with her, Edward. You looked ready to murder Barnett for his accusations.”

“He is a bastard,” he spat. “The world would be better off without his kind.”

“I agree, but you are changing the subject.”

“Leave it be, my lord.”

“You are enamored with her?”

He looked away. “It is complicated.”

“Only if you choose for it to be. Neither of you is titled, and even if you were, it is your choice.”

“She feels she is my inferior.”

“How do you feel?”

“I am unsure at this moment. I did not expect to feel anything for the young lady. Especially, ah, tender feelings.”

“I see.”

“She is kind and gentle. Loving. Her life has been one of difficulty and loneliness.”

“And you wish to change that?”

He scrubbed his hand on his face. “I do not know.”

A knock at the door ended our conversation. Edward rose and opened the door, revealing Geraldine. She looked worried, clutching a small bundle of linen in her hands. I rose to my feet.

“Is her ladyship well? Is something amiss?”

“She is fine, my lord. Sleeping finally. Lydia is watching over her.”

“Good. Is there another concern?”

She hesitated, and I indicated that she come inside. “Please sit. Be at ease.”

She sat in the chair Edward had vacated. He withdrew, leaving us alone.

“What have you there?” I asked.

“May I tell you some history, my lord? It has to do with Lady Wheaton.”

“Of course,” I replied, intrigued. “You have known her all her life.”

“Yes.”