“For shame, young lady, for I love a good atlas as much as the next man.”
Marianne asked, “Are you planning a trip, my lord?”
“I have not decided yet, but as I missed my grand tour, I have an inclination to paint the acropolis or the pyramids.”
“How exciting,” Lucinda said. “I have not traveled anywhere.”
“Really? I thought you grew up overseas? Prussia, wasn’t it?”
“Oh, that. I was a child, so I don’t remember much. We moved a lot.”
“I would love to hear what you do remember. Did you meet any of your father’s friends?”
“No. I was always in bed when father met with his friends. Mother had a beautiful singing voice, and I often heard her sing as I drifted off to sleep.”
“What a wonderful memory that is, Miss Sterling. After you have made your purchases would you all like to join me for a stroll in the square?”
“That does sound lovely, but we will need to ask the dowager first.”
“Of course. I will leave you to your shopping, but I will be downstairs near the counter when you are done.”
“Thank you. I am sure Mother will have no objections,” Marianne said.
Lord Dunstan bowed and left them. Marianne giggled. “I think Lord Dunstan is following us. He may even be smitten by you. I see an engagement in your future, Lucinda.”
“I hope so.” Did she? Did she really?
“Are you still holding out for the mysterious Mr. A?”
Lucinda shook her head. “No. That was nothing but a fanciful thought. Dunstan is a much more sensible choice.” And he was, but would that be enough?
Marianne took her hand, so she had to turn towards her. “Lord, Lucinda, tell me that is not the only reason.”
“Of course not, silly. He is handsome, rich, and he is… interesting. He will make a good husband and father. I am sure of it.”
“Do you have feelings for him? Do you love him?”
“I do have feelings for him.” Well, she did. She liked him as a friend and that was better than nothing.
“And?”
“And I am hoping those feelings will grow into love, on both sides. He himself said he wants someone he can talk to, and I concur.”
Marianne looked unconvinced if the frown between her brows was anything to go by. “Why are you looking at me like that? Not everyone has love at first sight, you know.”
“I know, but I don’t want you to be disappointed if he does not love you the way you wish to be loved.”
“How do you know how I wish to be loved? I do not have the time to wait for true love, Marianne. I need… I want.” What did she need? What did she want? She knew the answer, but it was one she could not afford to pursue. Tony had spelled out his thoughts quite clearly on the matter and her pushing him to change his mind would be fruitless. He did not need her and although he may want her, he certainly was not about to lose his precious position for her. Really, that should give her all the evidence she needed to stop dreaming of the impossible. It was clear what he valued more, and it wasn’t her. He was doing his duty and nothing more. The kisses they had shared had been mistakes in judgment. She had to accept that, but it was so hard when her heart wanted what it could not have.
The stroll in the park set the tone for the rest of the day and Lucinda was able to relax and enjoy her time with Lord Dunstan. She noticed he did not buy an atlas; maybe Marianne was right. Perhaps he was following her so he could spend more time with her. The fact that he may be seeking to be in her presence was new to her and it made her smile. Perhaps being the wife of such a man would not be so bad.
It was late.Tony, travel weary, went to his study to figure out the best way to break the news to Lucinda about her grandfather. He did not want a repeat of when he gave her the portraits of her parents. So, he needed to prepare himself for both reactions. What if she didn’t want to meet her grandfather? Did he just drag an old man all the way to London with a yearning to replace himself in her life? To what lengths would he go to deny his own feelings and desires for her?
If she wanted to meet him, could she forget about Tony and turn her attention and affections to her grandfather? Part of him wanted that to be the case. He would go on as he had before. His promise to Markham would be complete once she got married. Part of him dreaded the thought of watching her leave him for good, knowing he could have had her as his own.
He heard the commotion in the foyer. He heard his mother’s voice clearly echoing down the hall.
“A stroll in the park this afternoon and then three dances with Lord Dunstan tonight, Lucinda. It is only a matter of time before the earl comes to ask you for your hand. The fact that he braves our parlor every day lately shows his commitment to you.”
