“Yes, Your Grace. That’s why I asked hard questions. Her family did not accept her separation from Baron Derand in Scotland. But since you have also had a poor first marriage, you can understand youthful mistakes.”
“That I do, and she looks … very healthy.”
Katherine glares at me as if she wishes to take my cane and crack it over my skull. Katia, the tigress, was always a little irrational. That made her hard to figure out. I love that about her.
She pushes her way to the center of the circle that’s formed. “Your Grace, you will have everyone eating out of your palm. But we have business to take care of in your study.”
Her face looks set in a mode to attack my vanity or impugn my character. “Right now? In my study.”
“Yes,” Katherine says. “Right now.”
Scarlett smiles at her sister. “Your Grace, I’ll have your tea brought to your study.”
“I’ll take some, too, Scarlett. If you don’t mind.”
Her brow rises, but she and her husband leave, discussing Thom’s upcoming surgery.
The baroness slips into her spot and extends her hand. “I … I will never tire of thanking you. You’ve given me back the rest of my life. My friend the countess sends her regards, too.”
This touches me. “Tell the madam, I’m working on her problem now.” Baroness Derand is young and well mannered. “I do look forward to sharing a dance at the ball, my lady.”
“How will he be dancing with the cane?” the Tantie Telma woman says.
“Very carefully,” Katherine replies. “He only needs the balance of a willing and helpful partner.” She turns to me. “This is urgent.”
She holds out her hand and says, “I need your help.”
And just like that, Katherine claims my full attention. I focus on the lovely curve of her lips, repeating she needs me.
Katherine and I walk toward my study. At first, we move together. I barely need the support of my cane. Then she tows me inside the room and shuts the door.
My study.
I missed this room and being so close to my treasured chess sets. The walnut polished cabinetry looks perfect. I go to my desk and run my finger along my blotter.
My jade set is right where I left it. I pick up a rook. “Therewere times when I didn’t think I’d see this again. Here is where I will write my letters to all my family.”
“Does that include me?”
“Of course, Katherine. I have what I have because of you.”
“Well, you should check with your new bridal candidates. Sounds as if she will be amongst us soon.”
The annoyed tone sounds normal, but her expression is the same sultry gaze we shared the evening spent in her room.
“Katherine, it’s the plan we agreed upon. I’m not exactly the one to change strategies or tactics.”
She folds her arms, highlighting her straight posture and stately chest. It doesn’t hurt that the square neckline of her day dress brings my eyes to her beautiful olive bosom—the curves, the size, the roundness. And … is she not wearing stockings?
Palms sweating, I sit on the edge of my desk. “Tell me the problem.”
“There are so many to choose from.” Katherine comes closer. “Is it necessary for these women to prostitute their daughters to you? We shall never do that with Lydia.”
“Prostitute? I’m not looking for a temporary arrangement. And I somewhat have a mistress. That’s enough.”
“Will you keep a mistress once you’re married?”
Katia is jealous. I want to smile so badly. “Are you applying for this future position?”
