As Darius led the duchess out, Anthony followed suit with Lissa.
They had yet to clear the doorway before she leaned in and whispered, “Be sure to let me know the set weekend for Leighhall’s. I will arrange to be ‘visiting’ Dory.”
He slowed their progress so as not to be overheard. “Are you sure that is wise? Can she keep such a scandalous secret?”
Lissa gave him a sly smile. “Oh, I would never tell her the truth, but something else. Perhaps that I wish to surprise my grandmother. That way, if anyone attempts to find me, they will be looking in the wrong place.”
He shook his head but didn’t reply. While she was dressed so beautifully and looked as delicate as an orchid, it was easy to forget the sharp mind and strong will of the woman beside him. While that didn’t bode well for him at Leighhall’s, it did mean she would be an asset at the event.
As they entered through the double doors of his brother’s library, the duchess awaited. “Come, Lissette. Let us explore this treasury of knowledge. We may even find a book we have not seen before.”
As Lissa’s gloved hand left his arm, he noticed how gracefully she walked as she joined the duchess and they began their perusal on the eastern side of the room.
Not wishing to lose the time with his brother, he walked toward Darius, not completely comfortable with how his brother continued to watch Lissa. “I have a request to ask of you.”
His brother nodded, but didn’t move his gaze. “I assumed as much.”
Still, Darius didn’t stop what could only be called ogling Lissa. “Marquess?”
“You said the mademoiselle is a friend. Is that true, or do you wish to court her?”
Surprised by the question and not a little irritated by his brother’s interest, Anthony moved between Darius and the sight of Lissa. “She is simply a friend. However, I will tell you she has no wish to marry a peer. Are you contemplating marrying again?”
His brother finally turned away and strode toward his desk, clearly irritated. He stopped behind his chair. “I have no choice. I have but one son. It is too much risk to take with such a vast estate. I will need another, preferably one that is legitimate.” The last was said with an accusatory tone.
Anthony moved closer so as not to be overheard. “If you insinuateIhave illegitimate offspring, I can assure you I have not a one.” He wasn’t sure why his brother’s assumption bothered him so much when he’d cast aspersions on his character before, but it did.
“Yes, well, you hardly have much to worry about up there.” Darius waved his hand upward as if Northern England was of little consequence.
Taking advantage of the opening, Anthony quickly made his request. “Exactly, and that is why I am south, so as to find a fitting lady who would not mind living in such a remote place. I have come to you today to ask you to garner an invitation for me to Lord Leighhall’s house party next weekend. I was assured by fellow peers that it is not to be missed.”
Darius pulled his head back and cocked it slightly. “Can it be my little brother is seriously contemplating the prospect of finally taking on the responsibilities of his station?”
“Yes, I am.” Anthony held his brother’s suspicious gaze. If he wavered even the slightest, Darius would know he lied.
“Leighhall, you say?”
At the question, he relaxed. “Yes. I believe he has an aunt who plays host. The man’s appearance attracts many a young woman, so I’m hoping to draw one away from him with my charm.”
His brother closed his eyes for a moment as if attempting to find his patience. “Your estimation of yourself far exceeds anyone else’s. However, if you are indeed serious in applying yourself to settling into your role as Baron Bellamore, then I will not stand in your way.”
“Thank you. I had hoped you would be of help.” Already, Anthony was contemplating how to act with Leighhall. Appealing to the man’s ego would be the easiest way to find favor with him.
“I will require a boon in return.”
His brother’s comment dampened his excitement. “Of course. How may I be of service?”
Darius studied him for the longest time. So long that Anthony caught whispers of the ladies’ conversation about a writer named Rousseau and a book titledThe Social Contract. Finally, his brother opened his mouth then closed it and shook his head. “It can wait. When you return from this house party, I want a summary of your progress toward winning a lady. Then I will give you my requirements.”
So Darius wasn’t absolutely sure about him. The man knew Anthony far better than he wished. “I will be happy to return here shortly after and report to you on which woman or women I am bent upon courting.”
Darius let out a heavy sigh before moving away from his chair. “Your pride knows no bounds. Mind my words, baron. One day that hubris will be your downfall.”
Anthony withheld a chuckle, not in the least bothered that Darius continued to call him by his title alone. His brother had started that years ago after a particularly long lecture on the duties of a peer. To be fair, he would have agreed with Darius if he truly expected to win over more than one lady, but as he had no intention of courting anyone, ever, he needn’t worry about such a dire prediction.
Now he just had to wait for the invitation. Leighhall, like most peers, would view any request from one of higher status as an honor and a new connection to tout. The man’s ego led him to exact revenge on the smallest slight, so a request from a marquess would be welcomed.
The doors to the library opened and a footmen arrived with a tea service. The duchess noticed immediately, and guided Lissa toward them. Now Anthony just needed to get through tea and remember to sitinthe chair, not on the arm of the chair, and all would be well. All his plans were progressing perfectly.
