The Marquis and I (The Worthingtons #4)(47)

“Yes,” Elizabeth said excitedly. “From what I was told, Kenilworth entered Brooks’s and was congratulated by the master of the club. He ordered brandy and sat by himself, but upon seeing him, Lord Endicott got him to confirm the rumors were true and called for champagne. My brother said Kenilworth did not appear pleased with the interruption and tried to leave, but by then too many gentlemen were trying to wish him happy.”

“I see.” And a great deal more than Elizabeth understood. Lord Kenilworth would have already known his mistress’s story and was most likely wishing for some quiet that he would not find at home.

His mother had taken one look at the Pulteney, one of the best hotels in Town, and declared she would rather stay at Kenilworth House, so there would have been little peace there. Charlotte almost felt sorry for him.

“Gavin said Kenilworth also refused to go with several of them when they left Brooks’s to find other entertainment.” Elizabeth cast her gaze to the ceiling. “Whatever that means. He will never tell me. However, he most likely means gambling hells and other forms of low entertainment.”

Charlotte had a very good idea what that meant, and her esteem for his lordship grew a little more. “I am not sure I would wish to know.”

“Very true,” Elizabeth remarked unconvincingly. “You said Lord Harrington has returned?”

“He has.” Charlotte studied her friend for a moment. “He has asked to speak with Worthington.”

“Oh.” Her friend’s face drooped.

“Are you interested in him?”

“I might be.” Elizabeth’s tone was evasive. “Are you?”

This was a pickle. Charlotte wanted her friend to find a husband, but was it Harrington? She did not wish to stand in the way of Elizabeth’s happiness. “I am not sure.” Elizabeth gave Charlotte a sharp glance. “It is complicated.”

“We are about to be descended upon. If you like, we shall discuss it later.”

“I would like that.” She smiled as if relieved. “Thank you.”

She and Elizabeth smiled politely as a group of ladies surrounded them, and Charlotte was besieged by well-wishers with questions for which she did not have convincing answers.

Fortunately, a few minutes later Grace beckoned, and Charlotte was able to excuse herself.

When they arrived in the hall, Lady Kenilworth was smiling contentedly. “I have not had so much fun in a long time. Almeria was correct. I should spend more time in Town.” Their carriage arrived and the ladies were handed in. “Charlotte, my dear, did you hear that news of your betrothal is all anyone is speaking of? It has even eclipsed Lady Jane Summers’s marriage to Mr. Garvey. The Garveys are an old and well-respected family, but to allow Lady Jane to throw herself away on such a fellow . . . well, I do not know what her mother was thinking. She could have done much better.”

“Their grandparents’ estates run together, and they have known each other for years.” Charlotte saw no reason to inform Lady Kenilworth that Jane’s parents hadn’t had a choice in the matter. Everyone had thought she had set her cap for Merton, but he was merely a diversion until she confirmed she was breeding and could wed the man she loved. “I received a letter from her when I returned. She is extremely happy being married to Mr. Garvey.”

“She had better be,” her ladyship responded laconically. “There is no changing her mind now.”

That was true. Marriage was forever, or until one person died. Which was a very good reason for Charlotte to be as sure as she could be of Kenilworth and her feelings for him, as well as his for her. She should also discover if she had feelings, other than friendship, for Harrington. At this point, she wasn’t sure how she felt about either man. It was as if Harrington had appeared merely to muddy the water. On the other hand, perhaps it would help her make the right decision. Then again, once he heard about her betrothal, he would most likely turn to another lady. Mayhap she could help Elizabeth.

Charlotte sighed to herself. Even in Pride and Prejudice, the book she had just finished reading, the hero and heroine did not get on immediately.

That thought made her feel better. Her mother used to say things always worked out for the best. I hope so, Mama.

*

Con lightly drummed his fingers on his desk. He had summoned his man of business and was growing impatient with the man’s questions. “Suffice it to say it is a debt of honor. If you cannot see to it, I shall find someone who will.”

“No, no, my lord.” For the first time Sutton appeared ill at ease. “I was merely attempting to convey . . . I mean . . . but a debt of honor. I understand.”

Sutton had originally been hired by Con’s father because Sutton did not defer to every demand without ensuring a scheme was in the best interests of the marquisate. However, Con’s promise to Aimée, at least as he saw it, meant that his man of business must be kept ignorant of some of the details.

“I shall see to the accounts immediately. Where do you wish me to send the documents?” Sutton asked.

“To me. Draw up papers to convey the house on North Row as well.”

Sutton sat up straighter. “That is a fine property, my lord, even if you will not be using it as you have been.”

“Now that I am betrothed, I would rather see it gone.” Con had stilled his fingers, but impatience continued to flow through him.