He hesitated, taking a drink as he decided how best to answer. “I do. It’s interesting work, and there’s always more to learn.”
“But?” His mother shook her head when he didn’t answer right away. “I can hear it in your tone and see it on your face.”
Thomas chuckled. “You know me too well. I suppose I am anxious to return to London. I am lucky to have family in New York City, of course.”
“But it’s not the same.”
“No. I also want to find a way to make a difference for people who aren’t already wealthy. Those with modest wealth or who have an idea for a way to make life better but need assistance moving forward with it.” Viscount Garland was working on opening a bank to better serve the local community near his country estate, which was what had brought the idea to mind.
“That sounds wonderful. Though I’m sure a certain skill is necessary to find business ideas worthy of investing in. One has to sort through the doomed plans to find potentially profitable ones.”
“Indeed. Which means remaining in New York until I can learn more about the business.”
“As long as you’re still planning to return, I will do my best to remain patient.” She lifted a brow. “Of course, you could always marry an heiress and you wouldn’t need to concern yourself with a career.”
The image of Frances leapt into his mind. But he couldn’t imagine relying on her family’s wealth. “I don’t think that’s for me.”
“What of Miss Melbourne?” At his look of surprise, she added, “You spoke so highly of her after you attended her family’s house party this summer. I thought you might be interested in her.”
How he wished he hadn’t said anything to any of his family about her when matters were still so unsettled between them. “She has many qualities I admire. In fact, I’m supposed to help a group of friends, including her, with decorations tomorrow for the charity ball they’re holding.”
He’d told himself he wasn’t going unless he found Peter’s family. But now that they were waiting for the flyers to work their magic, he was tempted to.
“Supposed to? You aren’t sure?”
“I feel guilty enjoying myself when Peter is so miserable. Besides, I would also like to spend more time with you.”
“I am meeting friends tomorrow for a little shopping. I think you should go help and spend more time with her.” She leaned closer as if to share a secret. “Besides, rumor has it that her father has doubled her dowry. Pursuing her might be the answer to our wish that you return home for good.”
“Doubled?” Alarm washed over him, causing his chest to tighten. “That’s terrible news.” How would he ever hope to win her father’s approval when a titled lord would surely offer for her?
“Why do you say that?”
“There are other gentlemen who would appeal to her father more than me.” He stared across the room, worried by just how many there might be.
“Thomas.” His mother’s exasperated tone had him meeting her gaze. “You are a wonderful man.”
“Spoken like only a mother could. I appreciate your faith in me, but I’m certain Mr. Melbourne has high expectations. Without a title to offer his daughter, that only leaves wealth, which I don’t have either.”
“He already has wealth,” his mother insisted, setting down her teacup with force. “If he’s a good father, he will be more interested in finding someone who truly cares for his daughter.”
“Perhaps.” Could his mother be right?
But the news of her increased dowry was concerning. As he’d told Alan, asking Frances to wait for him wouldn’t be easy because it mattered so much. Asking meant risking rejection. But not asking meant he’d never have a chance. Waiting for the perfect moment to speak with her was killing him.
There was so much more to Frances than her family’s wealth. She was beautiful, thoughtful, kind, and intelligent. Her friendship with her book club group showed her loyalty to others. Her concern for the less fortunate was admirable, but the fact that she was taking action to aid them was even more so.
Given all that, how could he—a second son with few prospects—hope for a chance with her?
But still...he had to try.
“I thought to speak with her before the charity ball.” He said it with reluctance since telling his mother meant he had to follow through.
“Oh?” The hope in his mother’s tone made him smile. “Tomorrow might provide the opportunity you’re looking for. But only if you join her to help decorate.”
“True.” Had he been using finding Peter’s family as an excuse of sorts to delay speaking with Frances to share his feelings? It felt greedy to tempt fate by wanting both his desires fulfilled. “We shall see what tomorrow brings.”
His mother clasped a hand over his, her eyes shining with excitement. “I cannot wait to hear all about it.”
