They resumed their progress through the hedge and into the lane, while James privately wondered how Richard had pulled off that particular miracle. He didn’t know Edmund’s step-brother very well, but he’d run into him in town several times.
He was good looking, personable and had made a number of well-connected acquaintances as was to be expected of a young, single gentleman from an established title. If something lay behind his charming smile, James had yet to discover what it was.
“I do have a somewhat inventive family,” commented Edmund, with a wry curl to his lips.
“Well, yes you do. And actually that was one of the reasons I wanted you to come out of the Chase and ride this morning.”
Edmund turned and looked at James. “And I thought it was the pleasure of my company that led you to suggest it.”
“That as well.”
“Good. Thank you for the sop to my ego.” Edmund shot him a curious look. “But do go on.”
James swallowed, not quite sure how to begin the conversation. He took a leap of faith. “It’s about Letitia.”
Edmund accepted the comment with a nod. “Yes?”
“Well, you know, over the last year or so we’ve become quite well acquainted…”
“Yes,” said Edmund encouragingly.
“And now that she has her own maid, and you and Rosaline are progressing with the Ridlington affairs, not to mention expanding the family…”
“A most pleasurable addition,” grinned Edward. “Bit noisy and messy, but delightful all the same.”
“Of course,” concurred James. “But about Letitia…”
“Sorry. A momentary excess of paternal pride. Please continue.”
“She has been of enormous assistance with the building process, the design and so on, of FitzArden Hall…”
“Indeed,” answered Edmund.
“It probably won’t come as a shock to you if I mention that I have developed the greatest respect for her intellect…”
“Well deserved. She is a bright young woman.”
“I’ve also come to appreciate her organizational skills…the way she has helped out since young Hugh arrived…”
Edmund sighed and drew his horse to a halt. “James, for an intelligent man you are demonstrating an appalling ability to beat more than a few bushes to death. I swear this entire hedge is cowering.” He waved a hand down the lane. “Get to the point, man, before winter sets in.”
“I’m going to marry her.”
“Well about damn time.” Edmund grinned, leaned over and shook James’s hand, then clicked up his horse.
James, rather stunned at his blunt statement, not to mention Edmund’s reaction, followed suit. “So you don’t mind?”
“God, no. We’ve been expecting it for some time. You and she get on well, you’re aware of our financial situation, thus you’re certainly not marrying her for her fortune, since there isn’t one, so…”
“But…”
“Look, we’re men. You have stated your intentions toward my sister, and I heartily approve. As far as I’m concerned, that takes care of it for the two of us.” He looked over at James. “The one thing you’re going to have to do now is convince Letitia. And since she’s stated many times that she isn’t planning on marrying anyone, all I can say is good luck to you with that task.”
“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” James narrowed his eyes.
“Not half as much as I’m going to enjoy watching you persuade her to your way of thinking.”
James sighed, knowing Edmund was right. He would need all his wits about him to win the woman he desired.
But by God, it would be worth it.
