Page 52 of Duke in Shining Armor
“I had business to attend to in Scotland, so I spent some time away. I trust that you are enjoying the season.”
“Thank you, my lord. I am indeed.”
“Would you permit me to add my name to your dance card?”
Catherine agreed. She lifted her head from her dance card to find the Duchess of Pembroke approaching them. Several pair of eyes followed her movements as she was a powerful and formidable woman, whom no one would want as an enemy.
“Lady Catherine, you are looking as sophisticated as always,” the duchess said with a warm smile.
“Thank you, Your Grace. The color of your gown is most becoming.”
“How gracious, thank you, my dear. Charles, I thought you were in Scotland.”
“Indeed, I was, Your Grace; then business brought me to England.” The next set was announced and the Earl of Warwick extended his arm to lead Catherine to the dance floor.
“I must say, Lady Catherine, you’ve captured my friend’s heart,” the earl said.
“Of what do you speak, my lord?” Catherine queried.
“I have never seen Pembroke so enamored. You have captured not just his heart, but his mind and spirit.”
“Has the duke uttered these words?” Catherine asked.
“He does not need to tell me his reasoning, for I have known him for many years.”
“I see,” Catherine replied, as she tried to appear tranquil, but she was most curious indeed. Somehow, she wanted more than his mild affection and respect, she wanted love.
The earl continued, “I know of your meeting before you departed for Switzerland.”
Catherine stiffened, and she was sure that her face was red from embarrassment. “I did not know he spoke of it.”
“He was somewhat distressed when you left. I must confess I have never seen him in such a state before.”
“How so, my lord?”
“He tells me you are an extraordinary woman with sharp wit, you are well read, and that you spar with him on issues of politics, so I will speak frankly with you.”
Catherine gazed at his face momentarily, as she wondered what he would utter next.
“He did not engage in the usual manly pursuits after you departed for Switzerland. We saw him infrequently for card games or even a game of hunting.”
“That may very well be because he spends much time on his estate.”
“No, this was different. Prior to meeting you, James had a bit of a reputation as a blackguard, though it was somewhat exaggerated. He worked hard on the estate, and he felt he should enjoy his pursuits whenever he needed to.”
“I see,” Catherine replied, as she waited expectantly.
“Well, after you departed, he did not appear for the usual card games or accept any social invitations. I was forced to visit Pembroke Estate, just to ensure he was well. When I arrived, he spoke of you with affection, and I deemed you had a special place in his heart.”
“It is kind of you to say so, my lord.”
“He conveyed as much. I know, from what he divulged, that you were perturbed when you happened upon him and Madame Nicolette, but I can assure you that he has not been in her company since.”
Catherine glanced up in surprise, before lowering her lashes. She understood they spoke of delicate matters; nonetheless the earl held James in high esteem. The earl had affection and compassion for him. She knew this to be so, for otherwise he would not speak of mistresses.
“He has changed since he met you.”
“How so?”
