“He’ll want you as you are or not at all.Oui?”
“It makes no difference anyway. The title vanished before I was born, so from that point of view it’s as if it never existed at all.” Her mother had never spoken to her of her family. What Eloise knew, she’d learned from Victor. “I am Eloise Lamont, and I am proud to be my father’s daughter. I’ll never dishonor this family by acting as if the name he’s given me isn’t good enough.”
“Then I will hope and pray this man you care for will choose to ignore social stricture so...so you may be together.”
“So do I,” Eloise whispered, even though she knew it would never happen. William was a British gentleman destined to marry a proper lady. It was best if she accepted as much before it was too late.
#
WILLIAM GLANCED AThis bedchamber clock and groaned. It was almost time to go down for dinner, which meant yet another bland and unappetizing attempt by the maid charged with taking Eloise’s place during her absence. It felt like an eternity since she’d gone away, leaving his life emptier than it had ever been before and he a nervous wreck who constantly worried if she was all right.
He missed her terribly. Even when he’d been trying to distance himself from her, the knowledge of her being in the house had lifted his spirits. It was now two weeks since he’d helped her into that blasted carriage and insisted she leave. Two weeks since he’d felt the touch of her skin against his and gazed into her tear-filled eyes.
William’s heart clenched. She’d gone to face the loss of a dear relation, and while she’d insisted he stay behind, he wished he had gone with her. It wasn’t right that she should travel alone.
He pulled on his jacket and tugged the sleeves into place. Without a word from her since her departure, he’d no idea when she’d be back. But at least he’d be ready now. The deal on the townhouse he’d managed to acquire with his father’s help had closed today, and William would start work tomorrow at the Home Office. The experience he’d acquired in Lisbon would serve him well in his new position.
Exiting his bedchamber, William went to join his family in the parlor. “Good evening.”
“It is indeed,” his mother said with a joyous smile. She was standing near the fireplace next to Roxley while Athena and Sarah reclined on the sofa.
William tried to reciprocate his mother’s cheerful greeting. He didn’t quite share her high spirits, but that didn’t mean he shouldn’t make an effort. “You look lovely this evening, Mama.”
“Thank you, Will.” Her cheeks turned a lovely shade of pink. As if drawn to the high color, Roxley leaned in and kissed her.
Sarah sighed. “I hope I marry a man who will love me as much as Papa loves you.”
Mama’s eyes sparkled. “I hear they’re rare and far between, but not impossible to find. Especially not if you let me help.”
A crease formed on Sarah’s brow. “That’s not was I was suggesting.”
“In fact,” Mama continued, “I think it would be a marvelous idea if we were to invite all the suitable prospects here for tea. It will give you a chance to further your acquaintance with them without other young ladies getting in the way.”
Athena pressed her lips together but didn’t quite manage to stifle her laughter. It came out through her nose in a snort. Mama gave her a disgruntled look while Sarah’s frown deepened.
“I’m curious to know why you’re in such a wonderful mood this evening,” William told his mother with the aim to distract her. Sarah shot him a look of appreciation.
“Naturally, it has everything to do with Mrs. Lamont’s return. Our dinner this evening is bound to—”
William didn’t hear another word his mother said. Eloise was back, not far from where he stood. It would only take a couple of minutes to reach her. His heart knocked about wildly and his lungs, which had felt so constricted since her departure, finally welcomed the air he breathed.
With absent nods and “mmm...hmms,” he did his damnedest to look as though he paid attention to whatever else his mother was saying. It was also vital he hide his excitement so no one would know just how thrilled he was with Eloise’s return. After all, he hadn’t shared his plans with his family yet and quite liked keeping them to himself for the moment. But when they made their way toward the dining room a short while later, he met Athena’s gaze and realized he must be failing in that regard. At lease, if he was reading the sly gleam in her eyes correctly.
“When will you invite me to see your new house, Will?” Sarah asked once dinner was underway.
The salmon William was eating melted against his tongue, allowing a rich citrus flavor to liven his senses. It was followed by a piquant aftertaste and a subtle hint of creamy smoothness from the sauce with which the fish had been garnished.
“Once I’ve moved in, I should think.”
“And when will that be?” his mother asked.
“Well, the house isn’t quite ready yet, but I have been thinking of asking you all to join me there for tea once I’m settled so I can give you a tour.”
“Honestly, I don’t understand your sudden urgency,” Mama said. “This is your home and should remain so until you marry.”
William reached for his wine glass. “It is common for men my age to move away from home. In fact, most do it sooner. And after having lived alone for a year, I’ve grown accustomed to the freedom I’m able to enjoy in my own house.”
“It allows him to be independent,” Roxley said. “We mustn’t deny him that when it’s all part of growing up and learning to be responsible.”
