“Not at all. I have something for you.”
“I need nothing beyond your sister’s love.”
“Oh, I think you’ll like this gift.” He nodded to the butler to open the front door. “It’s outside.”
Richmond walked to the door, and a broad smile creased his face when he saw Frederick with Hercules stamping at the end of a lead. He looked back at Edgerton.
Edgerton slapped him on the back. “He’s all yours.”
“Thank you, my friend. He’s a truly a magnificent animal.”
“I know, and while I wouldn’t give him up for just anyone, I know you’ll take good care of him.”
“I certainly will, and as much as I appreciate your gift, I’d like to rejoin my wife.”
Edgerton chuckled as they turned and walked back to the parlor. “I know the feeling.”
Epilogue
April 1820
London
***
“Darling, we’re going to be late,” Emma said when Richmond pulled her into his arms for another kiss.
“What do I care for obligations when I have you in my arms?” he asked, nibbling on her ear lobe.
“Normally, I would agree with you, but this dinner with Lady Tisbury is important for Charlotte. It’ll be her first foray into Society since she was presented to the queen.”
Richmond sighed and released her. “You’re correct, of course, my darling. I’ll leave you to finish dressing, but I’d much rather stay here and ravish my beautiful wife.”
She smiled, running her finger along his jawline. “You may do all the ravishing you wish later. Will that suit?”
He chuckled. “That will suit me very well.”
Emma didn’t tell Richmond, but she was feeling a little nervous too. They’d been married for six months, but tonight was the first time she’d be facing the Londontonas the Duchess of Richmond. They’d been in Town for a week, and the invitations had started to arrive the moment Societylearned they were here. Lavinia and Julia had arrived at Edgerton House yesterday, and Edgerton and Courtney were due to arrive in the next few days. She was looking forward to seeing her nephew, James Rufus Bainbridge, again. Courtney had given birth to the Edgerton heir a month after her wedding, so Emma had been able to see him quite often before they traveled to London.
Richmond’s Aunt Agnes had also arrived in London and was looking forward to shepherding Charlotte through the Season. She’d declined the dinner invitation this evening, preferring to rest before thetonactivities began in earnest. Emma liked the older woman immediately. She was kind and reassured Charlotte that she would do well this Season.
Charlotte was waiting in the foyer when Richmond and Emma descended the stairs.
Mr. Sparrow, the butler, handed the women their shawls and the duke his hat.
“I’m so nervous,” Charlotte said as Richmond handed her into the carriage.
“You’ll do well, sister. Just be your lovely self, and thetonwill adore you,” he said, handing Emma up and climbing in and sitting beside her.
It was a short ride to the Tisbury townhouse, where Richmond handed the ladies down.
“Courage, Charlotte,” Emma said as they went inside to greet their hosts.
“Your Graces, I’m so very pleased you could join us this evening,” Lady Tisbury said.
Richmond bowed over her hand. “Thank you for the invitation, my lady.” He turned to her husband and nodded. “Tisbury. Good to see you again.”
“Richmond. I hope to see you at the club soon,” Lord Tisbury said.
