To her dismay, she realized her love for him had been based exclusively on one brief incident three years ago when he’d shown her kindness. That and the dance they’d once shared. Plus his good looks. Beyond this, she knew next to nothing about him. Perhaps she ought to?
“Mr. Fairbanks,” she began, “I wonder what your interests might be.”
He tipped his hat in greeting to an older couple who strolled past in the opposite direction. “I suppose they’re the same as those of most men in my position. I like to ride and play cards.”
“Of course. But when you’re alone, what do you do for pleasure?”
He gave her a curious look. “I have no interest in my own company. Therefore, I am not often alone. But on the rare occasion when I might find myself in such a position, I suppose I’d resort to reading the daily paper.”
“What about books?”
“What about them?”
“Which is your favorite?”
He puffed out a breath. “I can’t say I have one. Reading was always a chore to me, something I had to do for school. I haven’t picked up a book since I left university, partly because I did not wish to and partly because it was difficult finding the time, what with all the social functions, hunting parties, and the day-to-day running of my household.”
“I see.” Louise bit her lip and imagined what her life would be like if she married a man with no interest in books. It was unfathomable. Still, he had mentioned the running of his household. She decided to quiz him on this subject next. “Do your ledgers keep you busy most mornings then?”
“Not really. I have an excellent secretary who sees to all that.”
“While you take care of your correspondence?”
“No. Hayworth does that too.”
“But…” She was struggling now to find anything to like about him. “You mentioned the daily running of your household as something that keeps you busy.”
“Well, I do have to speak with Hayworth every morning, especially when it comes to investments and paying salaries, but that never takes more than an hour or so at most, after which I head to my club for the day.”
“Or to observe the Parliamentary sessions?” she asked him hopefully. She knew he didn’t have a seat, but surely he’d want to keep abreast of the political discourse and bills being passed.
He shrugged one shoulder. “When the mood strikes.”
Louise could not believe how badly she’d misjudged Mr. Fairbanks. He was dull and lazy, more pompous than she’d believed, and seemed to lack aspirations. A thought struck. “Why did you come to my aid when I fell at the musicale?”
A sly smile pulled at his lips. “I’m almost embarrassed to tell you.”
“Don’t be,” Louise said with rising annoyance.
“The truth is, I thought my gallantry might impress Lady Arabella.”
“Viscount Merrick’s wife?”
“She wasn’t his wife back then,” Mr. Fairbanks said. His smile broadened. “But let’s not speak of the past. I’d much rather focus on our being here together at last. Frankly, I cannot believe it has taken me so long to pay my attentions to you.”
Louise prepared a dry response but was stopped from delivering it when a child’s laughter caught her attention. She turned and spotted a small group of boys and girls attempting to fly some kites. A man wearing dark brown clothes issued instructions and offered assistance while speaking words of encouragement to his charges.
Even with his back turned toward her, Louise knew it was Mr. Berkly - her body responded to his presence, quickening her pulse and flushing her skin. She gasped and, as if he sensed her, Mr. Berkly turned. His soft brown eyes met hers for the briefest moment before he directed his gaze to the man who accompanied her.
“Mr. Fairbanks,” Mr. Berkly said in a bold voice that carried with such precision it could not be ignored.
Mr. Fairbanks drew Louise to what felt like a very reluctant halt. “It’s been an age, Marcus.”
The use of Mr. Berkly’s given name surprised Louise. She glanced between them.
“Indeed it has,” Mr. Berkly replied.
“I hear you work at St. Agatha’s now?” Mr. Fairbanks said. A hint of sadness clung to his voice.
