Page 85 of His Unforgettable Bride
“Heavens no. We were happy to assist you however possible.”
“Thank you.”
Tabitha nodded. “You might be interested to know that I received a letter from my brother this afternoon.”
“All is well back in England, I hope.”
“It is.” A moment passed before she added, “I don’t believe I told you, but when Alex stopped by the house, he asked me to help fund his upcoming trip home.”
Henry raised his brow. “No, you did not mention that detail, though it was none of my business.”
“My nephew’s request perplexed me at the time. I couldn’t imagine Nolan not providing for his son. Especially since he requested Alex return home directly. My brother is known for his generosity.”
“I am sorry.” Although they never learned what specific crime Alex had committed up north, swindling seemed like a strong possibility. “If only our family members behaved exactly as we preferred.”
“Yes, because we know best.”
He smiled. “Indeed.”
“Now what was this plan you desire my help with?”
Ah, a much better topic. “There are critical matters I must discuss with Juliet and prefer to do so privately. And perhaps romantically.”
“Intriguing. Leave the details for Livy and me. But I must ask, are you intending to propose marriage, young man?”
“Ideally, yes, but sadly, not today. I still need to convince her that we are well suited, though I fear she would abhor the acute attention she would receive at the palace. It is stifling, to say the least.”
“Understandable, though Juliet has a sturdy backbone.”
“That is true.” Not for the first time, he admired Tabitha’s faithful support of her charge. He also appreciated that she treated him as an equal, with no indication that his royal status made a fraction of a difference in their relationship.
“I suspect you’ll easily persuade her.”
He was less convinced. “Except there are two things you do not know about me.”
“Then, by all means, do tell.”
“I am the new King of Bascandy and engaged to another woman.”
“Oh my stars.”
* * *
“Juliet, it’s time for another lesson.” Tabitha’s smile was vast, and her eyes were as bright as the lantern she gripped.
“You look pleased this evening.” Juliet rose from her knees beside a new shipment of tea from India, the spicy scents spilling from the crate she had unpacked. The shop had closed an hour earlier as dusk had settled.
“Do I?” Tabitha’s grin faltered a notch. “I suppose I am. Though my afternoon started poorly due to the surprising snow, it vastly improved.”
“Some days definitely follow that pattern.” The night of the open house sprang to mind as Juliet reached for her shawl draped over a chair and tossed the garment over her shoulders. “On what topic is my next lesson?”
“Hmm…I don’t know the specifics. You’ll have to ask your instructor.”
What had Livy planned this time? Probably something essential, such as what jewelry to wear in season or out. Never mind that Juliet had nothing of that sort. Yesterday, Livy spent two hours reciting personal care recipes, everything from cold creams and the cure for chapped hands to tooth powders and rose lip salve.
All important, perhaps. Yet less than riveting.
They exited the tearoom and crossed the slippery cobblestone pathway, the ice momentarily slowing their steps. Juliet gripped Tabitha’s elbow to keep her from falling. Stars had replaced the earlier snowflakes, dotting the sky with sparkly diamonds.
