What if shewaswith child?
Her husband didn’t wish it, despite what Mrs. Brougham said. However, whatever she might say to Nicola, Olivia wanted a child more than anything—someone to love without condition and to loveher in return.
But could she weather her husband’s wrath—or worse, his disappointment—if she had a child?
Chapter Twenty-Seven
“This is asomewhat unusual request, Lord Devereaux.”
Charles looked up from the sheaf of papers emblazoned with the legendStockton & Stocktonand raised his eyebrows.
“Of course,” the lawyer continued, “you employ me to follow your instructions rather than comment on your decisions.”
Charles gestured to John.Excellent. The fool understands what I pay him for.
Stockton tilted his head until he was looking over the lenses of his circular-framed spectacles.
“Lord Devereaux says that he is determined in his decision,” John said.
“Your wife is already adequately provided for, Lord Devereaux. Her brother settled a substantial annuity on her at Drummonds Bank. He negotiated a very generous interest rate.”
That’s her brother’s business. This is mine. I’ve no wish for her to be dependent on anyone should she outlive me, not even her brother.
Charles nodded to John, who conveyed his words.
“She’s a countess, Lord Devereaux,” the lawyer said. “She’ll want for nothing.”
Charles raised his hands.I want to be absolutely sure. My brother is my heir.
“Heir presumptive,” Stockton said after John translated. “Your wife might produce an heir herself. And you might outlive her.”
In the event that neither occurs, I must ensure that she will not suffer eventhe slightest risk of destitution.
The solicitor’s eyes widened after John responded.
“Very well, Lord Devereaux. I applaud your consideration. Few husbands are concerned for the welfare of their wives should they predecease them.”
Charles raised his eyebrows, and the solicitor let out a soft chuckle.
“Most men of your rank believe they’ll live forever. If you don’t mind my speaking out of turn, you must have a high regard for your wife.”
Charles frowned.I don’t pay you to give me your opinion.
John let out a laugh.
“What did his lordship say?”
“Nothing he’s not said to me, Mr. Stockton,” John said. “He appreciates your opinion—an opinion that I share myself.”
That’s enough, John. Must I remind you what I payyoufor?
John ignored Charles’s gestures.
“Hmm.” Stockton tapped his pencil on the desk, then leaned back. “Very well—I shall proceed as directed.”
He scribbled on his notepad, then picked up a bell on his desk and rang it.
“I should have the formal papers drawn up regarding your will in a week or so, then it’s a matter of having the document signed and witnessed. As to the transfer of the outstanding portion of your wife’s dowry into your account, it might take rather longer depending on whether the Duke of Whitcombe is in Town, given that the documents will require his signature. I shan’t impugn your honor by referring to the terms of the marriage contract upon which the remaining ten thousand depended. That is a matter between yourself and His Grace.”
