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“Then why…?” Somerton halted as if he realized the question he asked was terribly improper.
“I need to sell things off and return to America.” Why the hell was he telling this complete stranger about his life?
Somerton leaned back and smiled. “I understand.”
“You do?”
“Someone is awaiting your return, and you want to show her what a success you are over here.”
“Something like that.”
Somerton rose and grabbed the bottle of whisky. “I believe this conversation needs a little nourishment.”
He waited while Somerton poured two rather large glasses of whisky. Will reached out, took the glass from Somerton, and raised it to his lips. Before he could sip, Somerton stopped him.
“A toast,” Somerton said with a genuine smile. “To friendships rekindled.”
Will saluted him with his glass and took a long sip of the smoky liquid. “Damn, that is some fine whisky.”
“Nothing but the best.” Somerton returned to his seat. “Now, tell me more about this need to go to America.”
Before he knew it, Will had explained everything from Abigail, to his sister, to Elizabeth. Although he did leave out a few details, especially with regards to Elizabeth.
“So Elizabeth has decided to stay and help you get your sisters ready for Society?” Somerton asked.
“Yes.”
He smiled. “Excellent. Now how can I assist you with this?” He pointed toward the stack of papers on the desk.
“I need the advice of a good solicitor.”
“I happen to know of an excellent man.” Somerton paused for a moment as if struggling with his words. “But you will need more than that.”
“Oh?” What else did he need? A solicitor would be able to help him sort through this mess and possibly find him a buyer for some of the land not entailed.
“Let me just say you don’t look like a duke. And you don’t act like one, either.”
“I’m not a duke.” Lord, the man was sounding like Elizabeth now. That stopped him short. Had Elizabeth asked Somerton to come here?
“Well, while you are in England, you are the Duke of Kendal. People will expect you to act a certain way.”
“And if I don’t?” he asked casually. Personally, he didn’t care if Society accepted him or not. He wouldn’t be here long enough for it to matter.
“You said you wanted to sell off some of your estates and land.”
> “Yes,” Will said impatiently.
“Then you must look and act the part. You will need to make acquaintances with these people, even if it’s only a superficial friendship. The men you meet will be the ones most interested in what you are selling. You will need to join White’s for this purpose.”
At least Will didn’t need to look like a complete incompetent—he did know about the gentlemen’s club. Of course, he had no reason to tell Somerton that his own father was rejected because he wasn’t deemed the right sort of man.
“And how do you suggest I go about making these changes?” Will asked as his eyebrows drew into a frown.
“I would suggest you speak with Elizabeth. She can help you hire a valet, and teach you some of the more proper protocols of Society.”
Will tightened his muscles. The little minx was the reason Somerton was here. She must have decided to get some reinforcements to help keep her in this house. He gulped down the rest of his whisky and decided it was time for this conversation to end.
“Lord Somerton!”
