Richmond took the book from Emma and handed it to the shopkeeper. “Please add this to my account.”
“Of course, Your Grace.”
“Mr. Bentley, I’d like to see any other new volumes you have,” Emma said.
The shop owner nodded. “This way, please, Miss Bainbridge. We got a new shipment in yesterday.”
Richmond held out his arm to Emma. “Shall we go see what other treasures Mr. Bentley has to offer?”
Emma gave him a brilliant smile. “I’d love to, Your Grace. Goodbye, Mr. Collingsworth,” she said over her shoulder as she placed her hand in the crook of Richmond’s elbow.
Now that he had Emma’s attention again, Richmond felt the tight knot of jealousy relax. He led her to the table where Mr. Bentley was pulling volumes to the front.
“Your Grace,” Emma whispered, “there’s no need for you to buy me the book. Edgerton’s quite used to receiving invoices from the bookstore.”
“Miss Bainbridge, it’s my pleasure, if only to see the joy on your face. In fact, please do me the honor of picking out several more books.”
“That’s very kind of you, Your Grace,” she said, a blush staining her cheeks pink.
After looking over the books Mr. Bentley laid out, Emma chosethree more books.
“Shall I have these delivered to the Hall, Your Grace?” Mr. Bentley asked.
“My carriage is at the White Swan Inn. You may have them delivered there.”
“Very good, Your Grace.”
“I can’t thank you enough for the books, Your Grace,” Emma said as they left the bookstore and headed back to the modiste shop.
“Perhaps we can read the astronomy book together,” he said. “I’ve always had an interest in the night sky.”
“You have?”
He nodded. “I have quite a few interests beyond being a duke.”
“We can read it together then if you’d like.”
“I’d like that very much, Miss Bainbridge.” Richmond was pleased with the visit to the bookstore and was looking forward to spending more time with Emma. Reading the book was the perfect way to be close to her.
They collected Lady Edgerton, Charlotte, Julia, and Sophia at the modiste shop, where Mrs. Dillion was just wrapping the last package as they walked in.
“Richmond, I’ve found the prettiest ribbons,” Sophia said, rushing toward her brother and hugging him.
“I’m happy you’re pleased, sister, but I believe it’s time for luncheon,” he said, returning her hug. “Lady Edgerton, may I escort you to the inn?”
Courtney nodded. “Thank you, Your Grace.”
They exited the shop, and Mrs. Dillion handed the packages to the footman, who’d been waiting by the door.
As they walked down the street, Courtney looked behind her. “Miss Bainbridge, did you find anything in the bookstore?”
“I did indeed, and I’m very excited to read my new astronomy book.”
“That’s good. It seems like it was a successful shopping trip for everyone then. And now, I’m very much looking forward to the luncheon. I’m quite famished.”
When they arrived at the inn, they were shown into the private dining room, which was already crowded with the rest of their party. “Good afternoon, Your Grace; I hope you found Warrington to your liking,” Lavinia said when they entered.
“It’s been quite a pleasurable morning,” the duke said.
