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It was true, but Selena hesitated when she recalled his pained expression in the garden shed after her outburst. The man was remorseful, and for whatever reason, Selena did not want to add to his misery. She couldn’t abandon Owen when he had no one else. But at the first sign that he may revert to his old ways, she wanted a way out.
Turning to her brother, she spoke. “No divorce. At least not yet. The poor man had been through so much already.”
“You care for him?”
“It is only pity for his current circumstance. There is no genuine affection. I cannot allow myself that luxury.”
“Why not?”
She met Rodney’s inquisitive stare. “Because I cannot risk it. What happens, hypothetically, if I come to care for Owen in the future, and he becomes the man I once despised? My heart could not take it.”
“I understand. Don’t worry. I will think of a way to help you. Give me a few days, and I will write you.”
Selena kissed his cheek. “Thank you.”
“Anything for my favorite sister.”
They rose to leave when Owen came through the door. “Oh, my apologies. I didn’t know you had a visitor.”
“It’s all right. Owen, this is Rodney Sheffield, my brother.”
Instantly, a large grin formed on Owen’s face. “I have a brother-in-law. How marvelous.” He shook hands with Rodney. “A pleasure to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you, again, Lord Fernsby.”
“Please, call me, Owen. I don’t like this lordship stuff. Besides, we are family. Will you stay for dinner?”
Rodney turned to Selena.
“It is at least a two-hour ride back to London. Do you want to stay so late?”
“Can we move up the dinner hour?” Owen asked. “After all, it’s just the three of us. I’m sure Cook wouldn’t mind.”
Rodney raised his brows. “If it is that important to his lordship, I daresay I shall accept.”
Owen looked at Selena to give her blessing. How could she refuse? Owen was so happy, and for some reason, she was glad to see it. “Of course. I will let the staff know of the change.”
“Excellent. Perhaps I can have a few minutes of Rodney’s time?” Owen patted the man on the shoulder.
“Of course,” Rodney answered.
“Then I will leave you gentleman alone. I will see you later.”
Selena went to the kitchen to alert the staff to Rodney’s presence for dinner and to move the mealtime to six o’clock. What could Owen want to discuss with Rodney? Her, no doubt. Who better to tell Owen about her than her own brother? How much would Rodney reveal? She wouldn’t worry. He was her brother, and he was a solicitor. Rodney would know what not to divulge.
After leaving the kitchen, Selena rested in her chambers. She thought about what she had said to Rodney, about refusing to let her heart become involved with Owen. Even though he had only been home for a day, Owen’s new personality was hard not to like. He was the husband she had always wished for. But how long would it last? Only time would tell.
At six, she joined the men in the drawing room. Owen escorted her into the dining room. The meal was enjoyable, the most pleasant she’d had since being married. Rodney and Owen had an easy camaraderie. To anyone, it would appear the men had enjoyed a lifelong friendship. Owen even laughed at Rodney’s awful jokes. Selena couldn’t help but laugh as well. It felt normal.
“I should go so I can make it back to London at a decent hour. Thank you for dinner and the wonderful company.” He extended his hand.
Owen shook it. “Come back any time. I will see that your horse is ready and allow you to say farewell to Selena.”
Rodney waited until Owen left before speaking. “You were right. He is a different man. And I must say, it is an improvement.”
“I know, but now you see why I am worried about what will happen if Owen reverts to his old ways.”
“I promised to help you, and I will.” He embraced Selena.
