The answer was so obvious he almost missed it, and when he caught it, he smiled.
He loved her.
The irony was not lost on him. He’d set out to have her fall in love with him and instead, she’d captured his heart. That had to be what the warm feeling in his chest was. He’d like to ask Harewood for his opinion, but the man had never loved anything beyond his first puppy. He scanned the room, curious about which couples were in love and which were simply married.
At that moment, the Duke and Duchess of Northwick swept by in each other’s arms, twirling in time to the waltz, completely oblivious to everyone else.That. That was two people in love, but he could hardly ask Amelia’s sister about such a private matter. As the couple continued to circle the dance floor, he became aware of discussions growing quieter. Most everyone in the room watched the duke and duchess. Did the guests understand why they stared? His instinct told him not many did.
He took the opportunity to meander his way around to where Lady Wakefield, Lady Enderly, and Harewood stood, also watching. Lady Wakefield had her hands clasped to her chest, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. He was no expert, but he could tell they were tears of happiness. He reached into his waistcoat and pulled out a handkerchief. “My lady?” He held it out to her.
She moved her gaze to his. “Oh, thank you.” Dabbing her eyes, she returned to watching her daughter until the dance ended. Finally, she turned back and handed him his handkerchief. “I know it’s silly, but we never expected Joanna to wed. To see her so happy and in love just fills my heart.” She blinked rapidly as if to stop her eyes from welling up. “Now to see if my Amelia can find her happiness too.”
Lady Enderly looked pointedly at Harewood.
He stiffened. “Do not look at me, Mother. We’ve discussed this.”
Andrew frowned at Harewood. “Discussed what?”
Lady Enderly didn’t wait. “It has been a dream of mine to have my son marry one of the Mabry sisters.”
Surprised, he stared at his friend. Why hadn’t Harewood told him that? Was that why he suggested Lady Amelia, so he wouldn’t be pushed into marriage?
Harewood’s face grew taught with tension, a small tick beneath his ear, proving he wasn’t happy. “We all know that. However, Lady Amelia is not…”
At Harewood’s hesitation, he found himself ready to defend her. “She’s not what?”
Lady Wakefield laid her hand on his arm. “She’s not Belinda.”
Belinda? Harewood had loved Amelia’s late sister? When? How? And how come he’d never said anything?
Harewood’s gaze raised to scan the ballroom. “It was a long time ago. I was barely out of leading strings. Just a child.”
Lady Wakefield smiled sadly. “A child with very good instincts.”
So that was why. It was before he’d met Harewood, and not one to share his feelings, he’d never mentioned it. Was it hard for him to be around the family?
“Well, I do so want to have grandchildren before I’m bedridden.” Lady Enderly gave a heartfelt sigh.
Harewood returned his gaze to his mother. “I’m sure Rose will be happy to provide you with some.”
Andrew glanced toward the dance floor, where Lady Rose participated in the Quadrille. When he turned back to the group, he found Lady Enderly studying him speculatively.
“Lord Sommerset, you have known Rose all her life.”
“No.” Harewood’s emphatic statement had them all staring at him.
Lady Enderly appeared exasperated with her son. “Why did you say that?”
“Lord Sommerset is not interested in Rose’s hand in marriage. I do not want to ever have to decide between my good friend and my sister.”
That Harewood would be torn in loyalties between himself and Lady Rose was a revelation, and he was humbled.
Before Lady Enderly could react to such a forward statement, a footman approached Harewood, handing him a note. Harewood opened it. “It appears my father would like my opinion to settle a debate going on in the library.” He gave a short bow. “If you will excuse me.”
“Tell your father if he wants to debate to wait until after dinner.” Lady Enderly waited for an acknowledging nod, before she turned back to them. “I do so wish that he could find a woman to marry. But I fear no one will want him.”
Lady Wakefield patted Lady Enderly’s arm. “If Joanna can find someone, there is definitely hope for your son. He is intelligent, handsome, and the heir to your estate. Just be patient.” Lady Wakefield turned to him. “Will you be staying in Bedford for Christmas?”
“I’m afraid I must leave before then. My brother will be home from Oxford and my mother is expecting me. I invited Lord Harewood to join me.”
