“Yes, but he was not immune to her cooking skills, and she quickly won him over.” She cast him a soft look. “I’m glad they found their happiness. They were a love match and still are after all these years.”
Gideon was not about to pursue that discussion. Berry was too much of a romantic. Any talk of love, especially one like theirs that was not meant to be, would have her in tears. “You did not mention who was hosting this evening’s dinner party.”
“The Berwicks and I were invited by Lord Folger in celebration of his birthday. It is to be held at the Claremont Inn.”
Gideon’s back went up. “The Claremont?”
“Yes.” She frowned. “What’s wrong? You do not look pleased. It has an excellent reputation. I’ve dined there a time or two, and the food is quite good.”
“I know.” He and Bonham had attempted to purchase shares in the establishment and been rebuffed. The owner was an officious prig whose goal was to climb the social ladder. He did not want to be associated with orphans who also ran gaming hells. Gideon knew he would not be welcome there.
Berry studied him, trying to read his expression. “Oh, do not tell me. You own it, too.”
“Quite the opposite. Bonham and I had hoped to invest in the Claremont, but the owner took an immediate dislike to us. We would be tossed out if ever we sought to dine there.”
“Oh, that is outrageous,” Berry said, sounding outraged and wounded on his behalf.
He shrugged. “I can understand his being wary of our gaming establishments, but it was the fact we were orphans that had him looking down upon us as though we were filth.”
“I am so sorry, Gideon.”
His heart gave a tug, for Berry spoke with her typical gentleness.
“Not your fault. The problem is, I cannot be there tonight to protect you should Hawthorne attempt to approach you. I suppose I could remain across the street while you dine inside.”
“That is ridiculous.” She shook her head. “I will be safe enough in Lord Berwick’s care. And you have your own affairs to look after. I’ve taken you away from your work enough today. It is just a supper party. Lord Berwick will see me to my door. Melton and my footmen will stand guard at my home. I shall be fine, and I doubt Lord Hawthorne will attempt to cause a scene at one of London’s finest dining establishments, or think to break into my home again tonight. Even a fool like him will know to wait a few days until we are not so watchful.”
Gideon still did not like it. “I wish you were going anywhere other than the Claremont.”
“Lord Folger is hardly going to change his plans at this late hour. As for me, I shall never dine there again… Not until you own it.”
He laughed. “That may be a while yet. The man is a pompous goat, but he knows how to run a business.”
“So do you.” She sighed, and her shoulders sagged. “I wish I did. I wouldn’t be walking around in circles about my doll idea.”
He nodded. “I am no expert in selling dolls, either. We’ll both be stumbling around blind in this venture.”
“At least you understand the pitfalls. I would walk right into them.”
“Surely Lord Berwick has taught you plenty about investing.”
“Yes, I suppose. Have you ever made mistakes in your business ventures?”
“Other than being cut off at the knees by the Claremont’s owner?” He rolled his eyes. “Oh, yes. Fortunately, Bonham and I have only been burned once or twice, and those were small losses in our early days that we were able to absorb even back then. But the lessons were well learned and never to be forgotten.”
They set aside their conversation as the carriage drew up in front of Berry’s home. Gideon assisted Berry and her maid down.
Melton opened the door as soon as they started up the walk. “All’s well, Mr. Knight,” he reported. “I’ve had Somers and Wilbury patrolling the grounds since this morning.”
Gideon nodded in approval. “Then I’ll take a few minutes to see what is going on in my home before returning here.”
Berry took light hold of his arm. “You needn’t come back. I am going upstairs to take a nap, and then I’ll be readying myself for tonight’s party. You needn’t fret about me. I’ll be all right for these next few hours. Truly. But I don’t mind waiting up for you upon my return. As I said, I should be back around midnight.Melton knows to let you in whenever you arrive. Take a turn about the house to satisfy yourself that I am safe. No one will object should you decide to patrol Duchess Square throughout the wee hours until dawn. But I think this evening will pass uneventfully.”
“I hope so,” he muttered. “Very well, I’ll see you at midnight.”
“Mr. Knight?” she called to him as he turned to leave. “Thank you for everything. And for every kind word you’ve said to me.” She cast him another of her uniquely Berry smiles that seemed to light up his heart.
She was thanking him because he had told her that he loved her.
