“Of course,” he said, steering the chair back to the house. Once inside, he picked Charlotte up and carried her upstairs.
Emma stayed behind, flopping into a chair, thankful that she was alone in the parlor because she needed time to think. Had the duke been flirting with her in the garden? No, that couldn’t be possible. Why would he want her? She was no one of importance. He was merely being kind to his sister’s friends. Yes, that was all it was, wasn’t it?
She had to admit that she thoroughly enjoyed the time she spent with the duke, riding the estate, reading, or, most significantly, gazing at the stars. Without realizing it, she was developing feelings for him. That thought did not bother her as much as she thought it would, and a contented sigh escaped her lips.
***
Richmond strode into Charlotte’s bedchamber two days later when Emma was reading to her. “Well, if it isn’t the birthday girls! I wanted to wish you both a happy birthday, and in honor of the day, I thought a trip into Warrington would be welcome since you haven’t been out of the house for a while.”
“Oh, Richmond! That would be lovely.”
“Miss Bainbridge, does that please you as well?” he asked.
“Of course, Your Grace. Thank you. Perhaps we might ask Julia and Sophia to attend as well. I know the girls would love to go to the village,” Emma said.
“Excellent idea.”
Emma stood. “I’ll go inform them, Your Grace. When would you like to leave?”
“Will thirty minutes suffice?”
“Certainly,” Emma said and left the room.
Richmond sat on the bed next to Charlotte. “My dear, I can hardly believe you’re eighteen today. What a lovely young woman you’ve grown to be. I’m so proud to be your brother.”
Charlotte hugged him. “Thank you, Richmond. That’s so very kind of you to say.”
“Now, I must ask you for a favor.”
“A favor? Ofcourse, what is it?”
“I want to give Miss Bainbridge a special gift for her birthday and was wondering if she’s mentioned any particular book she would like to read.”
“I know just the one! It’s calledFrankenstein. Emma mentioned it the other day.”
Richmond kissed her forehead. “Thank you, my dear. That’s perfect. Please keep it a secret for now.”
“Of course.”
“And now, what wouldyoulike for your special day?”
“You’ve already given it to me with this excursion into the village.” She hesitated, picking at the counterpane. “Although, do you think…”
“Charlotte, what is it?”
“Well, it’s just that I still don’t walk as well as I used to. Do you think people will stare at me?”
“You’re doing very well with your walking stick. No one will even notice.”
“Are you sure?”
“Absolutely. Perhaps a trip to the modiste will put a smile back on your face,” he said, squeezing her hand.
“Thank you for always making me feel so loved.”
“It’s easy to love you, Charlotte. You’re an extraordinary young woman. Now, I’ll leave you to your maid’s ministrations and see you downstairs.”
He headed downstairs and went in search of a certain footman. “Colin, a word?”
