“Oh yes, although we had to battle through his accent to understand him.” He had a pleasant laugh, and Charlotte found herself quite at ease in his company.
“It’s the kind of spirit I hope to emulate in my work,” she ventured, curious to see his reaction.
His eyebrows arched, but he appeared to be more curious than shocked.
“Oh, are you giving a lecture as well?”
“Perhaps one day, but no, I am writing a book. I hope to educate people about the kind of herbs and plants they can find in common locations and about the various uses.”
“That sounds remarkable. I’ve often thought about doing something like that myself, but every time I sit down to write, I am filled with a terrible sense of dread. I’m certain I would get something incorrect. I am an amateur at best.”
“I’m sure you do yourself a disservice, My Lord.”
Baron Winstanley waved a hand in the air.
“I wish that were the case, but as a man grows older, he begins to understand his limitations. However, I think it’s marvelous that you are willing to contribute to the sum of human knowledge.”
“Thank you,” Charlotte said with genuine appreciation and some surprise as well. “I wish more people felt as you do. I know it may not be traditional, but I am trying to do something worthwhile.”
“Indeed, and you should be congratulated for it. Imagine all the people you might help! I should be honored to read your book once it is completed.”
“Please, and I would welcome any notes.”
“I’m sure the only note I would have is to write more,” he said, and Charlotte found herself blushing.
However, her eyes drifted past Baron Winstanley’s shoulder as a murmur arose in the crowd. She caught sight of the host taking to the dance floor, holding Honoria’s hand high in the air. Everyone basked in their glory. Charlotte overheard a few whispers commenting on Honoria’s beauty and how well the two of them fit together.
“Now the party is beginning in earnest,” Baron Winstanley remarked.
Charlotte was still staring at Nathaniel. He looked handsome in his tunic. His face was stoic, as though he felt no emotion at all, but Charlotte knew this was a lie. The way he kissed her hinted at an unbidden passion beneath the surface. Could he kiss Honoria like that?
The irony of Nathaniel’s actions did not escape her. After all this time, he was the one who had been improper and had not even offered an explanation. But still, she would not raise the subject with anyone. Mary still needed to be protected.
“They are to be married soon, I believe,” Edmund said, appearing from nowhere.
“He hasn’t proposed yet,” Charlotte pointed out, a little too sharply and a little too quickly. She cleared her throat and spoke again, attempting to cover the emotions she revealed. “It wouldn’t be right to presume anything at this stage, especially when we know His Grace respects the proper procedure. Edmund, weren’t you speaking to a friend?”
Charlotte glared at Edmund, irked by his ill-timed return.
“I couldn’t stray too far, dear sister. I am your chaperone after all. Although I’m sure Baron Winstanley here is beyond reproach.” Edmund nudged Baron Winstanley in the ribs and winked at him. Baron Winstanley laughed. Charlotte almost envied the way Edmund could make friends with anyone.
“All this talk of marriage—why, it gets one thinking. Did you know my cousin is to be wed soon?” Edmund continued.Charlotte turned her head a little and widened her eyes, giving Edmund one of those silent looks that warned him to stop.
Of course, he did not.
“I did not; that is wonderful news. My congratulations to them,” Baron Winstanley said graciously.
“Is your wife in attendance tonight?”
Baron Winstanley hesitated. Charlotte felt an uncomfortable twinge inside again. She turned away, hoping for a moment’s respite, but that did not help either. She was faced with the sight of Nathaniel dancing with Honoria, and everyone watching on, impressed.
Honoria was everything Charlotte wasn’t.
Perhaps that was the appeal.
“My wife died of illness some years ago now,” Baron Winstanley replied quietly.
“Ah, I’m sorry,” Edmund said, placing a hand on the Baron’s shoulder as though they had known each other for years. The Baron’s head dropped while Edmund quickly looked toward Charlotte. He smiled, and she scowled, for she knew the machinations turning in his mind.
