“What a scandal,” Henry said while shaking his head. “And this is how you came to be in charge of it.”
The Earl nodded, raising the glass once more. “Indeed. However, I would much rather you did not divulge this information to my family. They do not know. They believe I bought the vineyard as an investment for my son, Charles. I would not want them to know I did such a foolish thing. Especially Rowena. She would only blame herself, as she does so frequently.”
Christopher nodded. Even though he did not know her well, he could see this as a trait in the young woman.
“They will not find out from either of us, My Lord,” Christopher promised.
Suddenly, beside him, Henry broke into a grin and winked at Christopher who braced himself for what she was sure to be one of his brother’s schemes.
“Lord Hazelshire, as you mention your family, I wondered. Perhaps it might be prudent of us to invite you and your family to our home in the country for a dinner to celebrate our new partnership.”
Christopher frowned. Their country home was in Lancashire, far from London, much too far for a weekend visit.
What is Henry thinking? It will be months before such a visit can be arranged.
As usual when he doubted his brother, he was quickly proven wrong. For almost as soon as Henry had made the suggestion, Lord Hazelshire wagged his index finger at them, with a grin on his face.
“That, I am afraid, won’t do. No. I wish to introduce you to my family with haste, for they will be ever so eager to meet the young men who will finally put an end to their Papa’s misery. I would like you to join me for dinner at my home, this coming Wednesday. I trust this time works well for you, Your Grace? Given that Parliament is not in session.”
Christopher leaned back, relief and gratitude washing over him.
“This coming Wednesday is wonderful, indeed. And we will contribute a case of Summerwind Wines finest to the occasion.”
He looked at his brother who smirked, pleased with himself. Christopher, meanwhile, picked up his wine glass and watched the wine as it swirled in the glass.
It was Monday. That meant that in two short days until he would see her once more, and now that he was officially in business with her father, the future was wide open.
Chapter 14
On Wednesday afternoon, Rowena found herself seated in the drawing room, alongside her sister and Betsy. Each had a book on their lap and were engrossed in their reading.
From the dining room, sounds of plates being placed could be heard. Usually, the servants were not nearly as busy, or as visible. Their servants were among the best trained in the realm and knew better than to be heard or seen by their masters. Today, however, the sounds of footsteps on the stairs was constant.
“Are we expecting guests?” Betsy asked.
Catherine placed her book on her lap. “Faith, haven’t you heard? His Grace the Duke of Westmond is coming to dine with us, along with his brother Mister Newmont.”
Rowena’s eyes widened, the book almost dropping from her hands.
“The Duke is coming?”
“Not your Duke, silly. Mine. I am certain Papa is trying to make a match for me.”
Rowena felt herself growing faint and rose.
“What is it, Rowena? You look ill,” Catherine asked with concern.
“I am not ill. However, I was not aware we were to have guests. I must change into something more suitable. I cannot believe Papa did not mention we were to dine with guests. Mama would be appalled.”
“Yes, she would. Alas, she is not here, so we must make do with this late notice. Come, Rowena, let me help you select a gown.” Betsy got up and placed a hand on the back of her friend. “You should get changed too, Lady Catherine. They will be here soon, I’m certain. Your Father has gone to White’s again. I’m sure he will be meeting them there.”
“Heaven forbid!” Catherine jumped up. “You are right. Without Mama here, I am ever so tardy.”
Catherine raced past them up the stairs, calling for her maid to attended to her.
Once they reached Rowena’s chamber, she sat down on the bed at once and buried her hands in her face.
“I cannot believe it. He is coming here? Why?”
