Lord Sterling gave a tight sigh at the sight of his friend, as if releasing tension from his body. “Yes, indeed. Though I don’t think the lady ever mentioned her name.” He shot her an expression that appeared almost amused. But she couldn’t be sure. He was so very . . . controlled.
“Then allow me to make the formal introductions. “Lord Sterling.” He gave a sidelong glance to Grace, as if saying, “See, I remembered.” “This is my ward, Miss Iris Grace Morgan, but she goes by the name Grace.” He finished with a sweep of his hand.
“A pleasure, Miss Grace.” He bowed smartly, the movement oddly graceful for his height.
“A pleasure, Lord Sterling.” Grace gave her best curtsey, lowering her body and inclining her head just enough. Her only regret was that Samantha wasn’t there to behold it.
“My apologies.” Samantha’s voice gently floated through the air and Grace looked up to see her arrival. After an approving smile to Grace, Samantha stood beside her husband and faced their guest. “Ah, Lord Sterling.” She offered her hand.
He took it, kissing it quickly, and turned to the viscount.
“And this lovely and fascinating creature is my wife.” The viscount grinned proudly as he gazed lovingly down on Samantha.
“A pleasure to meet you. We’ve long awaited the lady that could tame this beast of a man.” He gave a grin that transformed his face.
All the stoic lines of expression melted into an amusement that took years off his face, and the effect was stunning. He was beautiful, handsome but not in the classic way. His eyes smiled as much as his lips, which, now that they had drawn her attention, she could see were full and wide. For the first time, he acted like an old friend versus some barrister coming to discuss someone’s estate.
Grace pulled her gaze away, not wanting to be caught staring.
“It wasn’t difficult to tame him, though I don’t think that is the correct sentiment.”
“You can’t tame a Scot,” the viscount added with a sturdy nod.
“Scot with a very English title,” Lord Sterling replied with an arched brow.
“If the English wish to give me land and money, who am I to stop them?” He shrugged.
Lord Sterling gave a slight shake of his head, as if he were used to the viscount’s antics but not willing to prolong them.
“Shall we all sit? I’m sure dinner will be announced shortly, but I wish to hear any news that you’re willing to share.” Samantha gave a meaningful glance to the viscount, and Grace felt a shiver of foreboding tickle her spine.
In short work they had all taken seats, and Grace was making a concentrated effort to sit straight, and follow the conversation without being distracted.
“Have you heard anything concerning the Duke of Chatterwood?” the viscount asked, diving right into the news that mattered most.
Lord Ramsey nodded, then leaned forward. “Some. It would seem he’s keeping rather tight lipped about the whole situation, which is a boon. With his daughters properly married, I cannot imagine he would do more than to let his disapproval be known. To do anything further would risk his own reputation. The scandal follows you and Lord Heightfield, and if he wishes to remain clean of his new son-in-law’s rather questionable reputations, he will wisely keep distance.”
“Questionable reputation, hmm?” The viscount stroked his chin, an amused expression in his eyes. “I suppose that’s more accurate than not.”
“Indeed.” Lord Sterling arched a brow, but his lips formed a small smirk. “A reputation that you’re taking strides to improve?” he asked, his gaze darting to Grace.
Her eyes widened slightly and she cast her gaze to the viscount.
“If it’s possible.” He shrugged a shoulder. “But as it is, all of London’s parties will be open to us if for no other reason than to gain the true story on how I came to marry the duke’s youngest daughter. London and their love of gossip, you know.”
“That and the husbands will all be vying for your favor.”
“If they aren’t already members.” The viscount flicked a speck of lint from his coat sleeve and turned to Grace.
“You have nothing to worry about, Miss Grace. Don’t let Lord Sterling intimidate you regarding your prospects.”
Grace nodded, flickering her gaze to Samantha.
Samantha gave a supportive smile.
The sound of someone entering the room captured everyone’s attention, and Mrs. Marilla curtseyed. “Dinner is served, my lord.”
Again Grace was stricken with the beauty of the housekeeper, and she glanced to Samantha. Was she concerned about her husband having such a lovely lady on staff? Why had he hired her? All these questions filtered through her mind as she rose from her seat and turned her attention to the door.
