Given that it was unlikely she would be able to change their opinions, Violet decided to let go of the argument, as she had no further desire to waste time. “Are you comforted that Tommy will be watching the Harleys’ residence even though it is unnecessary?”
“Yes,” Ferrard ground out.
“You as well, Lady Esther?”
“Of course. As I said, one can’t be too careful.”
Violet blew out a sigh. “Very well. Though I find it unnecessary, it also impacts me little, therefore, I concede to your wishes.”
“I’m so glad we’ve brought this disagreement to an end,” Lady Esther proclaimed with delight. “Now, it’s time for the two of you to court.”
Thankfully, this was only a courtship of convenience, as Violet knew she could never endure a true courtship with a gentleman who thought to enforce protection when it wasn’t necessary. If he sought such control over her now, how much worse would it be if she were a wife?
Chapter 11
Emory had never encounteredanyone as stubborn as Lady Violet. Nor had he ever met a woman with so little regard for her safety. It would be maddening to have her as a wife, and he was grateful that this was only a courtship of convenience, otherwise, he’d need to end their association and return home.
Just as quickly Emory realized that he would not take such a rash action. Even if their courtship ended, he would remain to watch over Lady Violet until she returned to Forester Hall. Just because the two of them would never suit, did not mean Emory would leave Lady Violet vulnerable to the likes of Eardly.
“It shall be the park today,” Lady Esther announced. “Her Grace advised that there is little in Laswell to recommend for courtship and will provide a location she deems appropriate each day.”
With that, Lady Esther turned and marched forward. “She assures me that even though it is winter, the park is still pleasant.’
Emory offered his arm and after casting a glance at him from beneath her bonnet, Lady Violet reluctantly accepted.
She was most undoubtedly still angry with him, but at least they were no longer arguing.
She’d yelled at him! No woman had ever done so or disagreed with him with such force.
Shocking, but hardly irritating. In fact, he rather enjoyed her standing up to him. And, if she weren’t so maddening, he might have reconsidered whether the courtship should only be a convenience. Except he knew that she’d drive him quite mad quickly, as he’d be in constant worry that she’d not consider her own safety and do something foolish.
“Let’s put our disagreement behind us,” Lady Violet stated, though there was coolness to her tone. “What are your interests, Lord Ferrard?”
He could think of nothing other than keeping her safe, an answer she’d not accept.
When had he gotten so protective over a lady he barely knew?
Except, Eardly was a cruel, selfish man who took what he wanted. He’d been the same at Eton, privileged with little regard for anyone, which left all females vulnerable.
“Lord Ferrard?” Lady Violet questioned.
He must stop thinking of Eardly and concentrate on Lady Violet since he was courting her. “Honestly, I have few interests of late.”
“I find that rather depressing if you must know.”
“It is rather depressing,” he agreed. “Until this past summer, I had many interests, usually involving horses and other gentlemanly pursuits.”
“The park looks lovely,” Lady Esther announced. “I will enjoy sitting by the fountain, even if it isn’t working this time of year, and the two of you can wander about, but within sight.”
He glanced down at Lady Violet. “Shall we stroll within the park?”
“It is a lovely day to do so,” she agreed.
After checking to make certain there were no carriages or horses bearing down on them from either direction, Emory led Lady Violet across the cobbled street. Not far beyond the gates was the large fountain, empty of water given the time of year, though benches surrounded it. Lady Esther found one to settle upon then withdrew a book from her reticule. “Don’t wander too far,” she reminded them before opening the book to begin reading.
At their chaperone’s urging, the two walked the path around the large fountain, and away from Lady Esther’s hearing.
“Lord Ferrard, I wish to apologize for my earlier outburst.”
