“We are in complete agreement, and there is certainly no danger of anything like that affecting the wedding. You’ll be pleased to know that my dear sister is a stickler for rules. She won’t let anything untoward or unexpected happen, not with eyes as keen as hers,” Edmund grinned as he moved across the room, taking Charlotte’s hand and leading her away from the window.
She was standing opposite Nathaniel now, each of them flanked by their brothers. The low table was knee high, separating them. Charlotte was looking everywhere but at him.
“Is that so?” Nathaniel arched an eyebrow.
“Oh yes, she’s been keeping me in line since we were children,” Edmund chortled.
“It brings me great relief to know that there is someone who is so disciplined, who would never lose control,” Nathaniel said.
At this, Charlotte did lift her glance. Now, he caught a glimpse of the fire that had burned him before. Her full lips were drawn taut, twitching as though she was holding back words.
It appeared she was not so outspoken as to speak in front of the families, but neither was she as meek as she seemed. Edmund might be suggesting otherwise, but as always, Nathaniel was going to trust his judgment over others.
Charlotte Hartley meant trouble.
“Of course,” he continued, “I will be the one to make the final decision. This wedding falls under my purview, and I need to make sure that everything is as it should be before it is settled.”
The words were directed at her, as unerring as an arrow loosed from a prize-winning archer’s bow. Charlotte flinched as if physically struck, and color returned to her cheeks.
Nathaniel showed no trace of it on his face but pressed his toes against the floor, rocking on his heels slightly to express his smugness.
Getting under her skin was a victory indeed, but this was a war, and one battle would not decide the outcome. For all of her meekness during this discussion, she still showed defiance in her eyes. The boldness and recklessness were lurking in her heart and might well erupt at any moment.
Yes, he would have to keep a close eye on her. If there was any trouble caused for his house and family, he was certain it would originate from her. After all, she had already kissed him. What more was she capable of?
This time, when he looked at her, she stared back at him. There was a silent argument occurring, unbeknownst to the others. They had a secret connection, and this led to a simmering tension that heated the air between them.
He could not take his eyes off her, but caution was the only reason why he watched her.
At least, that’s what he told himself.
Chapter Five
Charlotte felt as though she was going to snap. It had taken all of her willpower to keep her tongue still. All of her anguish had finally come to bear. It was impossible to quell the churning sensation in her stomach, and while she had tried to keep her face turned away from him, it was impossible to ignore his existence.
Every time she looked at him, she was reminded of the kiss they shared. Before, he had been nothing more than a rude man, one who could suffer a tongue-lashing. But here he was master and lord, and he had Mary’s fate in his hands.
He had made no secret of reminding her of it, either.
Oh yes, she was fully aware of the threat. The others had no idea, of course, but she knew. All the talk of impropriety, of behavior, was all a reminder that he had not forgotten their earlier interaction.
Charlotte glanced worriedly at Mary. As yet, she wasn’t sure how she was going to handle the situation. Nathaniel reminded them all that his judgment was final. Frankly, she was surprised he hadn’t thrown them all out immediately upon seeing her.
Was the Iron Duke capable of some mercy, or was he just biding his time before bringing down the hammer?
Thankfully, she was offered some relief when they were shown to their guest rooms. Nathaniel stood by the door, nodding to them as they left. As she passed, she was reminded of his potent scent, and her mind whirled.
When she dared to look into his eyes, she was met with an unflinching gaze, and she invariably stared at his mouth as well. She had never assumed that she would encounter the man she had kissed again. She hoped she would be able to lose the memory in the nebulous past.
“Are you feeling well, sister?” Edmund asked as they exited the drawing room. Charlotte glanced over her shoulder, feeling relieved that Nathaniel was not following.
“I am. Why do you ask?”
“It’s just that there seems to be something off with you. I’ve never known you to be so lost for words.”
“I am simply being polite. I stand in fear of saying anything that might elicit our host’s disapproval.”
Edmund waved the notion away. “I’m sure he’s more bluster than anything. He has a reputation to maintain, of course.”
