“…really do not understand. If what you say is true, why does he not care for me? I must admit, I am in high-dungeon over it all.”
“My cousin is a fool.”
“He does not pay me any attention unless forced and for her… he fawns over her.”
Kenneth swallowed, realizing what they were talking about. He’d feared his attention and affection for Lady Ruth was evident and he’d been correct.
“I love my sister, but I thought it was understood this journey was meant for me to make a match with Lord Rotham. Somehow, it is all going wrong.”
Lawrence cleared his throat. “Well, I agree it is evident my cousin is paying a lot of attention to your sister. I saw them return from a walk just two days ago.”
“A walk?” Lady Sophia’s voice was full of alarm.
“Indeed. Now, do not fret. In time, my cousin will see that what he needs is right in front of him. Class, grace, accomplishment – and beauty. In the form of you, of course.”
“You flatter me, Lord Cragshade. If only Lord Rotham would see me in such a positive light.”
“He will, as I said. In time. And if he does not, well, there is no way my aunt will allow marriage between your sister and my cousin.”
There was silence for a moment and when Lady Sophia spoke again, her tone was tinged with regret and resignation.
“I love my sister so dearly. I’ve only ever wanted what was best for her and hoped one day she might find herself settled somewhere. I saw myself looking after her for the rest of our lives and the thought always brought me such joy. I thought she would be my constant companion when I marry. I never considered she would marry, herself. Not at all. Is that terrible of me, Lord Cragshade?”
“No. Of course not. It is not unkind of voice what everyone, including your sister, is certainly thinking.”
“And yet, she’s drawn the attention of your cousin.”
Lawrence sighed. “Well, he will see the light yet. And if he does not, let me just say this, if he refuses to marry you, there are other Dukes and heirs that would gladly marry a lady as lovely as yourself.”
Kenneth rolled his eyes, knowing Lawrence meant himself, but Lady Sophia appeared oblivious.
“I ought to return to the manor, Lord Cragshade. I do thank you for tending to me.”
“Well, when I see a young lady in distress, as you were when I came upon you, I cannot simply walk away. It is not in my nature.”
He extended his hand to her as he stood, and she gave it to him. Kenneth watched as he kissed the back of her hand, his eyes on her face. The two parted and Lady Sophia walked back to the house after casting a glance to either side of her to ensure she wasn’t seen. Lawrence, to Kenneth’s disgust, sauntered away, his cane dangling in the crook of his elbow.
“I see his leg is fully recovered,” Jack commented as they both stood.
“I doubt there was ever anything the matter with it.” Kenneth glared at Lawrence as he climbed the steps into the manor and disappeared from view. “What a vile creature he is.”
“And he is such a conceited man. Lady Sophia is quite the innocent soul not to see what he is attempting to do. Getting into her good graces.”
Kenneth nodded. “That is exactly what he is hoping to do. He is a usurper of the worst kind.” Kenneth started pacing along the garden, followed by Jack.
“He hopes I do not marry, die young, and without an heir - he always has. I remember when we were children, I took ill. A fever, quite severe. He came to call on me as though to show compassion but, in his eyes, – he hoped I would die. I saw it right there, that day. And he hopes for the same still. He wants to inherit the title of the next Duke of Goldclaw, with Lady Sophia by his side. He assumes that I will refuse to marry Lady Sophia.”
“Which you will.”
Kenneth stopped and narrowed his eyes. Jack shrugged when he saw his expression.
“It is clear you do not care for her. I assume it is her sister you do care for. I have had this feeling ever since the day we conversed at the lake with her.”
“I am tired of denying it. Yes, I cannot stop thinking of her. It is peculiar. I no longer think of her scar, nor the awkward manner in which we first conversed. I’ve found her intriguing ever since I met her but now that I’ve had the opportunity to spend time with her – I cannot help it. She enchants me.”
Jack smiled and placed a hand on his friend’s back. “Such is love. It will find you when you least expect it. Well, it is not too long ago that we spoke about this very subject. You told me you did not want to marry for duty but for love. Here is your chance.”
Kenneth’s jaw set as he considered this. Love. Did he love her? Could one love a lady after such a short time? He voiced this concern to Jack, who chuckled.
