Page 49 of The Highlander Is All That

“I think so too.”

They chatted a bit more, but Elizabeth was hardly paying attention. Her mind was beset with what to do about Twiggenberry. When she gusted a maudlin sigh, Catherine squeezed her arm. “What’s wrong?”

She frowned and faced her friend. If anyone should know, it was Catherine. “There’s been an offer for my hand.”

“But Elizabeth,” Catherine cried. “That is wonderful. Who is it?”

“Lord Twiggenberry.”

Catherine’s mouth dropped open. “Twiggenberry? He’s . . . quite a catch.”

“I suppose.”

“You suppose? Isn’t it the dream of every debutante to catch a husband like him?”

“I suppose.”

Catherine cupped Elizabeth’s cheeks and held her gaze. “What is wrong then?”

“I don’t know. I just don’t . . .”

“Don’t what?”

She leaned in and whispered, “I just don’t . . . like him.”

“Have you gotten to know him? Remember, I was not fond of Duncan at all when he reappeared in my life.”

“He’s nothing like Duncan, I assure you.”

Her friend gave her a quick hug. “You can always say no.”

“Can I? Everyone is counting on me to make a brilliant match.”

“Not at the price of your happiness.”

“Aunt Esmeralda is quite adamant that he is perfect. And apparently he has been approved by the duke . . .”

“Then let the duke marry him.”

Elizabeth’s laugh was damp. “Don’t be ridiculous. The duke is already married.”

“I doubt your cousin would want you to marry someone you do not care for.”

“People do it every day.”

“Not people like you.” Catherine patted her hand. “I shall talk to Lady Esmeralda tomorrow.”

“Oh, would you?”

“Of course.”

Elizabeth grinned, her mood suddenly lifted. “And may I come to live with you and Duncan when I am an old maid firmly on the shelf?”

Catherine threw back her head and laughed. “Absolutely. In fact, I would love having you.”

They linked arms and started strolling again. As they reached the end of the path, a deep voice reached out to them from the shadows and Elizabeth started in surprise.

“Catherine?”