STATING A CASE FOR A CAUSE
An hour later, Aimsley House
“You want to dowhat?” Adam Comber, Earl of Aimsley, asked as he stared at his spare heir. He had been leaning back in the leather chair in his study when Andrew found him a few minutes before, pondering which invitations to accept for the following week’s entertainments.
“I’d like to live in my own townhouse,” Andrew repeated. “With Lady Danielle, once we’re wed.”
Adam blinked. “Your own townhouse? Are you quite sure?” He leaned to one side. “Hummel? Are you there?”
The butler appeared on the threshold of the study, his arms behind his back. “Yes, sir?”
“Is my countess about?”
“She’s in the classroom, sir. Should I have her join you?”
Adam shook his head. “That won’t be necessary.” He regarded his son with a questioning look. “Did you already propose to Lady Danielle?”
Andrew winced. “I did. In the park. She... she asked for a few days to think about it, but I’ll see her tomorrow at Lady Morganfield’s garden party, and I’d like to take her to the townhouse, to show it to her.”
“To help your cause?” Adam guessed.
A grimace forming at the reminder of what Danielle’s father had suggested he do, Andrew nodded. “It was Lord Norwick’s idea, actually.”
“You already spoke with him, too?” Adam asked in surprise.
Andrew nodded. “He was quite helpful. Had a number of suggestions. He wants to see his daughter married as much as I wish to marry her, even though she claims she wants to live an independent life. He’s also going to speak with Lady Norwick. Engage her help in the matter.”
Grinning, Adam said, “Well, the idea of you in your own townhouse is an excellent idea.” He interlaced his fingers as he regarded his son. “I have to admit to a bit of surprise at how quickly you’re seeing to your future.”
“Lady Danielle wishes to go to the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies and to Greece for the wedding trip,” Andrew blurted.
Adam rolled his eyes. “Ah, so this is your way of taking a Grand Tour despite the circumstances?”
Andrew could feel the heat of embarrassment coloring his neck and cheeks. “I suppose so, sir. Besides, if she doesn’t marry me, she claims she’ll use her inheritance and go there on her own.”
His brows furrowing, Adam shook his head. “Well, we can’t have that now, can we? She can’t go alone!”
“I volunteered to be her traveling companion,” Andrew said with a shrug. “But I would rather go as her husband.”
Once again leaning back in his chair, Adam sighed. “Well, then, let’s hope some convincing at a garden party changes her mind.”
Andrew winced, deciding it best he not share Lord Norwick’s other suggestions for what he should do after the garden party. He didn’t wish to be in any more trouble than he already was.
