“You are completely wrong about him and I pray you come to realize as much. It is not fair of you to judge him so harshly even if you have no designs on him, it would not pain you to be polite.” Rebecca reached out and patted Daphne’s hand. “Regardless, I will leave the topic alone for now.”
A small blessing to be sure for Daphne had no desire to continue the conversation. The last thing she needed was to have such romantic notions placed in her mind. As it were, she found herself far too attracted to the man. If she dared to allow herself to see some good in him, she may well forget herself and do something foolish.
The sort of thing she could ill afford to allow.
No, she would stay clear of the regrettably handsome rogue and find herself an upstanding husband as soon as possible. Henry’s future depended on such an outcome and she would not let her son down.
As the three sisters finished their tea, Daphne couldn't help but feel relieved that the conversation had shifted away from Lord Brunsford. She had to admit, though, that her mind had already wandered to him once again. She shook herself mentally, forcing the thoughts away. "When are we expecting the furniture and fabric people?" she asked.
"Mr and Mrs Bruce should arrive very soon. Mr Bruce is a furniture builder and also carries designs in his shop from Hope, Smith, and Holland. As you already know, Mrs Bruce is a dress maker but also creates drapes, bedding, and assists her husband with upholstery."
"Ah, yes. I happen to be wearing one of her creations today." Phoebe smiled as she looked down at her violet day gown. "It is so comfortable and beautiful. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for Almerry."
Rebecca nodded in agreement. "Yes, and we shall also need to discuss the colors for the rooms. I was thinking perhaps red for the dining room and green for the study. I would like the great hall to be done in white and azure as I believe those were Almerry's colors in Isabel and Ariston's time. What do you think?"
"Almerry will be beautiful," Phoebe said, and Daphne nodded her agreement.
Rebecca clapped her hands together, pleased. "I cannot wait to see the castle restored to its former glory."
As they discussed the finer details of the renovation, Daphne was grateful for the distraction. The thought of Lord Brunsford lingered in the back of her mind, but she was determined to cast it aside. She had a goal, a plan for her and her son's future. An impulsive romance with a rake was not part of that plan.
No. What Daphne needed was a husband. A gentleman kind enough to care for her son and wealthy enough to provide for them. Despite knowing what was best, a dull ache formed in her chest. The prospect of a loveless marriage wasn't exactly appealing, but she had long since resigned herself to the fact that sacrifices had to be made for her son's future. Henry was the most important person in her life, and she would do anything to ensure his happiness and safety.
She simply could not raise him on the charity of Lord and Lady Chesterfield. Of course Henry was their grandson and all they had left of Roland, but nonetheless, Henry was not their responsibility. He was her responsibility. Hers and Rolands.
Why hadn't Roland provided for them? If only he would have ensured their future. She shook the thought away. There was no use in it for the past could not be changed and surely if Roland had believed he might not return from war he would have done things differently. No young man believes they will be killed and her Roland was no exception. He had been strong and brave. Loyal and honorable. She would not fault him now.
"Daphne?" Rebecca slid a fabric sample toward her. "What do you think?"
Daphne bit her lip as she reached for the red velvet swatch. "It's lovely," she said, smiling faintly. "Would you like to use it for the dining room drapes?"
Rebecca nodded, a radiant smile curving her lips. "Yes, I think it would be perfect. And I am thinking of a cream-colored rug for the floor."
Daphne nodded, trying to focus on the task at hand instead of her own thoughts and worries. She could not continue to let her mind wander. She had to remain focused and practical not only because she had promised to help Rebecca, but also for Henry and herself.
And yet, even as she tried to focus herself on the task at hand, she caught her mind wondering and her gaze drifting to the door. This afternoon could not end soon enough.
Suddenly the prospect of collecting Henry from Lord Brunsford loomed large in her mind. She could not very well avoid the rogue when he was keeping company with her son.
As they continued to discuss the renovation, Daphne couldn't help but steal glances at the clock on the mantle. It seemed each minute dragged on like an eternity until finally, the Bruce's excused themselves leaving Daphne, Phoebe and Rebecca alone in the great hall.
Standing from the table, Daphne said, "I should fetch Henry now. Thank you for the pleasant afternoon, but I must be going."
"Of course, Daphne," Rebecca replied, rising from the table as well. "Tell Henry I send my love and shall be rather cross if he does not greet me the next time you are at Almerry."
"Yes, of course," Daphne murmured, smoothing down her dress before heading to the door. As she stepped outside, the late afternoon air hit her, sending shivers down her spine. She wrapped her shawl tighter around her and stepped out into the bailey, her gaze searching for Henry. She would collect him and depart at once - before Lord Brunsford had a chance to rattle her.
Four
Alex had not laid eyes on Daphne in days. He knew she’d been to Almerry to see Rebecca, but she always seemed to sneak past him. He’d wager she’d done so on purpose.
A fact that grated on his nerves.
But she’d not manage to evade him today. Rebecca had let it be known that Daphne was to join her for a trip into the village and Alex promptly agreed to accompany them, his eyes betraying his delight. He helped Rebecca up into the carriage before climbing in himself, settling on the seat across from her. With a broad grin, he rapped his knuckles against the roof of the carriage and called out to their driver.
Alex stretched his legs out and relaxed against the seat as the carriage jerked into motion. He could hardly wait to see the look on Daphne’s face when she joined them. Would it be shock, anger, annoyance…perhaps pleasure? Regardless, he would revel in her reaction.
“You appear to be in high spirits," Rebecca said, curiosity shining in her eyes. "May I inquire as to what has you glowing?”
