Charlotte’s smile thinned. “Eleanor, do not be dramatic.”
Arabella’s voice cut in, quiet but firm. “I do not want to marry him.”
Norman’s face hardened. “Arabella.”
Arabella lifted her chin. “I said I do not want to marry him.”
Norman’s voice rose. “You do not understand what is best for you.”
Eleanor stepped forward. “You do not understand what is best for her.”
Norman’s eyes narrowed. “Mind your tone.”
Eleanor’s tone remained controlled, but her words were iron. “I will mind nothing when you are trying to sell my sister to a man old enough to be her grandfather.”
Norman snapped, “He is not that old.”
James’s gaze hardened. “How old?”
Norman’s mouth tightened. He hesitated, the delay speaking louder than an answer.
James took a step closer. “St. George.”
Norman’s voice came out curt. “He is older than I am.”
Eleanor’s face went still. “Older than you.”
Norman’s jaw flexed. “And yet he is a marquess. He has influence. He has a seat. He has resources.”
James felt Eleanor’s anger burn hotter beside him. He could almost hear her restraint cracking.
Arabella’s hands clenched. “I will not.”
Norman turned on her. “You will.”
Eleanor’s voice sharpened. “No. She will not.”
Norman’s face reddened. “Do you forget your place, Eleanor?”
James spoke before Eleanor could. His voice was quiet, but it cut cleanly through the room.
“St. George,” James said, “you should remember yours.”
Norman stiffened. “Excuse me?”
James did not raise his voice. He did not need to. “You are speaking to the Duchess of Langford. You will not threaten her.”
Charlotte’s eyes widened. “How dare you address Father like that?”
James did not look at her. “I am addressing him accurately.”
Norman’s expression twisted, pride battling fear. “This is family business.”
Eleanor lifted her chin. “Then you should have behaved like family.”
Norman’s voice rose again, anger breaking through his restraint. “Arabella will marry him. It is decided.”
Eleanor’s gaze went cold. “If you try to compromise her future, I will inform thetonof your association with Lady Whitcombe.”
