Perhaps Lord Bramwell truly was a little frustrated that Felix had kept so much to himself.
After all, we do share a good many things.
“I see.” With a small shrug, he looked away. “I am sorry that I have pained you by my silence, though you ought now to be grateful for it.”
Lord Bramwell’s eyes narrowed.
“In what way?”
“Because,” Felix responded, truthfully, “I have been selfish and acted in a most inappropriate manner. I have taken risks I ought not to have done and, in doing so, have found myself embarrassed by my own foolish choices.” His friend shot him a quick look. “I do not say any of this as a pretense. I speak honestly and openly, for it is all I can offer you at present. Perhaps I ought to have spoken to you about Lady Elizabeth before now, but the truth was that I have found myself rather surprised that I shouldeverhave any particular feelings as regards any young lady, I did not think, even in courtship, that my heart would pull towards someone so.”
Stating this aloud had him blinking in surprise over just how much he felt and, given Lord Bramwell’s wide eyes, it seemed he was just as astonished also.
“Then… you are considering matrimony?” Lord Bramwell’s tone held nothing but surprise. “Even though, at the start of the Season, you were quite determined not to do so?”
Felix chuckled, then passed one hand over his eyes, letting out a low groan.
“I do not know what I intend.” He dropped his hand back to his side. “The truth is, I am very confused and uncertain as to what I want. The only thing I am fully aware of at present is that I want the company of Lady Elizabeth as frequently as I can have it.”
Lord Bramwell sucked air through his teeth.
“Good gracious.” Seeing Felix’s lifted brows, he shrugged. “It seems as though you might very well be falling in love with the lady, which is certainly all the more surprising. Even I did not believe that you would ever evenconsidersuch a thing.” This latter part was said with a broad grin, and Felix laughed, shaking his head as Lord Bramwell grinned back at him, the edge of seriousness gone from their words. “In hindsight, I should not be too frustrated over your lack of explanation about Lady Elizabeth.” After some moments of silence, Lord Bramwell cleared his throat but kept his eyes turned to the path ahead rather than looking at Felix. “There has been something I ought to have told you also. I have kept it from you deliberately, however.”
“Oh?”
Attempting to make light of what was a serious consideration, Lord Bramwell shrugged and sniffed.
“Nothing of any great significance, really. It is only that I am… considering marriage also.”
These last few words came out in a rush and Felix found himself smiling.
“Truly?”
“Truly.” Lord Bramwell glanced at Felix, then tugged his gaze away again – but not before Felix had spotted the redness of Lord Bramwell’s face. “I was acquainted with Lord Ruthven back in Eton and unfortunately, was not in the least bit surprised to hear how he had treated Miss Whitford. He has always been a selfish fellow, even in Eton. I find her quite charming and, therefore, I have not only asked her for her hand, but also made it plain that I intend to speak to Lord Ruthven myself. Firmly, if I have to.”
Felix’s eyebrows leaped fully towards his hairline.
“You mean to say that you are betrothed?”
His surprise could not be hidden and, when his friend looked at him, Felix let out a bark of laughter.
“It is no laughing matter!” Lord Bramwell threw up his hands. “I am quite serious. I believe Miss Whitford and I are an excellent fit for each other and will do very well.”
Rather than laugh any further, Felix merely stopped, turned, and reached to grasp his friend’s hand, shaking it firmly although a broad smile still spread across his face.
“I am very pleased for you.Verypleased for you indeed. In truth, when I first met the lady, I did wonder whether or not she might do for you.” He tipped his head. “It is good to know that I was correct.”
Lord Bramwell made to snort but ended up grinning.
“You can be very proud of your achievement – though I do hope, in all sincerity, that you will be able to find yourself betrothed also, very soon.”
“Thank you.” Felix smiled. “I have thought to host a soiree next week. Might you wish to attend?”
“I certainly should.” Lord Bramwell grinned, his eyes dancing “As long as my betrothed is also permitted an invitation.”
Slapping Lord Bramwell on the shoulder good-naturedly, Felix chuckled.
“Of course she is invited,” he promised. His eyes slid away from his friend and, with a broad grin, he stepped away from him. “And if you will excuse me, I can see that the object of my own desires has just now come into the park. Do excuse me.”
