“And you let that keep you from confessing your feelings?” Adrian moved out of his chair and went to stand by his brother. “You are the Earl of Hanover. You could have any woman you want.”
“No, brother. Not any woman. This woman was the daughter of an impoverished baron. Although they lived in a large cottage, it was in need of major repairs. In the ton’s eyes, the baron and his family were no less than farmers, similar to Miss Benson’s. My best friend was caught in a compromising position with the woman, and her father forced Kentwood to wed her. I wouldn’t have been able to stop it even if I’d wanted to.”
“Kentwood? Lloyd Talbot, our distant cousin?”
“Yes, that was who ended up with the woman who held my heart.”
Adrian blew out a gush of air, understanding what his brother was saying. “Forgive me, but I hadn’t realized—”
“How could you?” Collin shrugged. “This happened a year ago when I traveled to Bath with Kentwood. We met the young miss and her family, but I judged her harshly. When I realized how I felt about Adeline, it was too late.” A slow smile crossed his face. “She was a stubborn woman, and yet she made me laugh. She was well liked by those around her.” He sighed. “I’m sure she has made Kentwood a wonderful wife.”
“Did you attend their wedding?”
“No. I couldn’t bring myself to watch it happen. I left, and I haven’t seen or spoken to Lloyd since.”
“Is that why you had gone traveling the world?”
Collin nodded. “I was trying to get rid of my feelings for her.”
“Did it work?”
“Not exactly.” Collin set his empty glass down on the tray before turning toward Adrian. “What I’m trying to tell you, dear brother is, if you’re in love with Miss Benson, you need to let her know. Don’t hide your feelings because you never know what tomorrow will bring. One never knows when love will be taken from us.”
Adrian patted Collin’s shoulder. This was the first time he’d felt so close to his brother. “Then I won’t make your mistake.”
“Splendid. Tell her as soon as you can... however, given the time of night, I suggest you wait for the morning.”
Adrian laughed loudly. “I’m not sure if I can, but I’ll try.”
Collin gave him thatbig-brotherscowl. “Don’t turn this into a scandal. Quick marriages ruin the woman’s family name.”
“I’m aware of that.”
Chuckling, Adrian left the room and made his way toward his bedchambers. He really should wait until morning, but with his heart so full of this odd, tender emotion, would he be able to hold off from seeing her until then?
He highly doubted it.
