Page 236 of From Rakes to Riches

“Indeed,” Fiona agreed. “Did Overton really want to marry her?”

Cassandra shrugged. “I recall that he’d had his heart broken, but I don’t pay attention to gossip. And, of course, I wasn’t out then.”

He’d had his heart broken. Fiona felt a surge of sympathy for him. “I realize I don’t know him extensively, but he’s never seemed cold or autocratic to me. Yes, he’s been demanding and rather managing when it comes to my future, but even then, he seems to change his mind in favor of allowing me to do things as I choose. Friday’s assembly is a prime example. He wasn’t going to let me go and then changed his mind.”

Cassandra cocked her head as she studied Fiona. “I wonder why. Has he developed a particular affection for you?”

“It may be that he is striving to not be like his father,” Prudence suggested. “I have heard talk from the servants about Lord Overton. His relationship with his father was fraught, especially after he didn’t marry as expected two seasons ago. If the prior earl was autocratic, it makes sense that the current earl may reverse decisions that could be seen in the same light.”

That did make sense. Fiona wanted to ask him about it. Would he open up to her about his father and about whatever had happened with Lady Bentley? Was it even any of her business? Not really, but she thought they had some sort of connection—if not as family, at least friendship?

“I did hear something this morning that made me curious,” Prudence said, setting her spoon down since she’d finished her ice cream. “The housekeeper and the butler were discussing the earl’s need to wed.”

“Why would that make you curious?” Cassandra asked. “He’s an earl and needs an heir.”

“They said something about his father putting him in a terrible situation.” Prudence looked to Fiona. “I suppose that could refer to some disagreement they had before he died.”

And Fiona hadn’t improved his situation with her behavior last week. She’d reminded everyone that he was a rogue and perhaps not the best marriage material, earl or not. “Cassandra, is there anything I can do to help him? His current predicament regarding his reputation is entirely my fault.”

“Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do. But you do give me an idea.” She tapped her finger against her chin briefly. “My brother Constantine is completely above reproach. He can probably assist Overton in ways we can’t. I’ll speak with him.”

Fiona was so glad to hear this, even if she didn’t understand how he could help. “What can he do? While we’ve been sitting here, I believe you referred to him as an ass.”

Cassandra laughed. “That much is true, but in this case his pomposity is an advantage. He can speak on Overton’s behalf, spend time with him so that people will see the earl with a new perspective. The only thing Overton must be careful of is spendingtoomuch time with him, for then he may be found dull.” She flashed a smile. “I am joking. Con is not always as boring as Lu says he is.”

“That would be wonderful,” Fiona said, grateful for her friend’s support. “I feel so terrible about what happened.”

Cassandra gave her an encouraging smile. “We’ll do what we can. Now, let us discuss what we are wearing on Friday!”

Fiona turned her mind to the assembly and seeing Lord Gregory. Was she really going to accept his proposal should he offer it? She didn’t see as she had any other choice. At least he was kind, and she enjoyed his company. She could do far worse, such as the vicar that her cousin apparently had in mind.

Furthermore, she expected Lord Gregory would be amenable to caring for Mrs. Tucket, but she’d have to ensure that was the case before she agreed to anything. In fact, she’d speak with him about it on Friday at the ball.

In the meantime, she meant to offer whatever support she could to her guardian,ifhe would take it.

“May I come in?”

Tobias looked up from the papers he was reading at his desk after dinner to see his ward framed in the threshold of his study door. Her simple green gown was a rich contrast for her vibrant red hair. Captivated by her beauty, he stood, as if he were pulled by an invisible rope. He moved around the desk but forced himself to stop.

“Please.” He went to the small settee near the hearth and hoped she would sit beside him, even if it did invite temptation.

She came forward, the hem of her pear-colored skirts skimming the carpet as she joined him.

“I hope I’m not intruding on your work,” she said, glancing toward his desk.

He angled himself toward her and rested his arm along the back of the settee, bending it at the elbow so his fingers didn’t reach her shoulder. “Not at all. I’m grateful for the respite, actually. Is there something you wish to discuss?”

Her gaze dropped to her lap where she fidgeted with her gown. Straightening her hands so her fingers flexed, she placed her palms on her lap and gave him a tremulous smile.

“You seem nervous,” he said. “Is aught amiss?”

“No, nothing’s wrong. I went to Gunter’s today with Cassandra. And Prudence, of course.” She hesitated before adding, “We encountered Lady Bentley.”

Tobias gritted his teeth to prevent himself from swearing out loud. “I see,” he said slowly. “How was this…encounter?”

“She came to our table, and Cassandra introduced us. She, ah, mentioned something about you trying to kidnap her…” She looked away again, and Tobias couldn’t quite tell what she was asking.

“Did you believe her?”

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