Riding had given Matt time to think and face some hard truths about himself. He had taken her sizable dowry for granted.
His sojourn in the country? Yes, it was true that Letty had broken his heart, except that, to be honest, he’d latched on to her because being named Camberly had been overwhelming. He’d never imagined he’d take on the title, even after his uncle had died. He’d naïvely assumed his grandfather would live forever. The old man must have thought the same or else he would have helped Matt become better prepared.
However, a blackmailer and a sharp-tongued heiress were waking Matt up.
Unfortunately, he was not liking Miss Reverly very much.
Perhaps because she was right? Hehadn’tgiven much thought to her. Guilty as charged?
He turned his attention to Cassandra. “How are you, Lady Dewsberry? Married life appears to suit you.”
“It pleases me very well, Your Grace,” she replied smoothly, with enough of a twinkle in her eye that he knew Willa had confided in her about the note.
Did that mean Willa had also spoken to her father? Perhaps Leland Reverly was even behind the message? If that was the case, there would be no dowry.
Keeping his smile determinedly fixed on his face, Matt said to Willa, “May we sit and talk?”
“I have said all I wish to say,” was her rude reply.
“And yet, I apparently have much to explain.” His voice sounded genial, but tight. It was the best he could manage.
“Why, Your Grace, I have no interest in hearing explanations.”
She delivered her insults with a sweet, false smile, the sort of smile that meant she was furious with him—and that was good. Women never had strong emotions for things that didn’t matter to them. His sisters had taught him that.
The time had come for him to take command.
To Cassandra, he said, “Would you excuse us, my lady? Miss Reverly and I require a private moment.”
“Don’t you leave this room, Cassandra,” Miss Reverly countermanded. “Myguests are not to be dismissed.”
“Not even to discuss an issue of importance betweenus?” Matt asked. He attempted to sound polite. Instead, he came off testy.
“I’ve reachedmydecision. There is nothing to discuss.”
My decision. Interesting, and hopeful. Her father might not be aware of what she’d done. “I ask that you hear me out.”
“Your Grace, you may talk, but I will not listen.”
“Then perhaps I should discuss this with your father?”
Her shoulders came back, her chin forward. “He has nothing to say to you.”
“Then our conversation will be brief. I will have your butler ask him to join us.” Matt took a step toward the door.
She stepped in his path. “He is not at home.”
“He doesn’t know about your letter, does he?”
Miss Reverly looked to Cassandra, who had an I-warned-you expression on her face. Matt decided the time was right to repeat his earlier request. “Lady Dewsberry, I wish a word with Miss Reverly.”
“Yes, I believe that would be wise.”
“Cassandra,don’t leave.”
Her friend was already to the door. “I must, Willa. This is really between you and His Grace. My husband has taught me there are some conversations that should be private. But, please, give him a chance. Like women, men often do foolish things.” She gave Matt a considering look and then shrugged her shoulders. “He might make a decent husband in the long run.”
“Long run?” Miss Reverly echoed, her brows rising as if she couldn’t imagine such a thing.
