The garden at Halworth House had been arranged beautifully.
White canvas pavilions stood along the edges of the lawn, musicians occupied a shaded platform near the fountain, and ladies in pale silks drifted along the gravel paths like moving statues rather than people.
Nathaniel disliked garden parties. They required constant performance, but more than that he found them to be too hot. He stepped from the carriage first, then turned to assist Margaret.
She did not hesitate this time. Her hand rested in his with assurance, her posture upright without stiffness. The pale green of her gown caught the light beautifully, and she met his gaze briefly before turning toward the entrance.
“Are you ready?” he asked quietly.
“Yes.”
There was a conviction in her that he had not sensed before, and he welcomed it. They entered together, and conversation shifted in subtle ripples as they passed as he had expected. Margaret felt it too, of that he was certain, but this time, she did not seem to be frightened by it. Lady Halworth approached almost immediately, her smile wide.
“Your Grace, Miss Fairleigh. We are most pleased that you come today.”
Nathaniel offered the expected greeting. Margaret did the same, and then, without prompting, began speaking of the gardens.
“I simply must tell you that your gardener is superb! It is so perfectly arranged, Lady Halworth.”
Lady Halworth blinked. Nathaniel wondered if it was the first time that day that anyone had actually thought to pay her a compliment in that respect.
“You noticed?”
“It would be difficult not to.”
The hostess brightened at once, delighted by the recognition. Within moments she was explaining her gardener’s new approach, and Margaret listened intently. Nathaniel watched Margaret listen. She did not flatter excessively, and she askedquestions at the correct intervals. She allowed Lady Halworth to speak at length without appearing impatient.
She was an excellent listener.
When the conversation turned toward charitable committees, Margaret seemed prepared for it. All that Nathaniel had to do was listen in, and for a duke, that rarely happened. He was always expected to have an opinion, or experience, and it was nice to simply listen for once.
“I have assisted my mother in organizing small subscriptions,” she said. “Though nothing on the scale of your recent work.”
Lady Halworth leaned in.
“Then you must join us next quarter. We are always looking for responsible young ladies to assist us.”
Margaret smiled.
“I would be glad to.”
Lady Halworth moved on, satisfied. Nathaniel turned slightly toward Margaret once they were momentarily alone.
“You seem to be enjoying yourself.”
“I am prepared this time,” she replied.
They continued along the path.
Two young gentlemen bowed as they passed. One addressed Margaret directly.
“You will attend the musicale next week, I hope?”
“I have not yet seen the program,” she replied. “Would you recommend it?”
“It depends on one’s tolerance for Italian tenors.”
“Then I shall consult the weather before deciding. I must admit that they do have a certain charm.”
