Page 53 of Duke in Shining Armor
“Although he remains consumed by the need to fulfil his duty on the estate, he has spoken much more of wanting to take a wife and to have a family.” Lord Warwick chuckled. “You do not know how pleased the duchess is with this turn of events. She’s often said she will not rest, because the duke would not marry and have children to secure the family line.”
Catherine was happy to know that James had given up his mistress and that he had given much thought to the future. She had not thought that far into the future herself. A family meant bearing his children, but she dared not think of it until he declared himself and an engagement was announced.
“The duke mentioned asking you to give him a chance to redeem himself, and it appears you are prepared to do so.”
“I most certainly am, my lord. I am a lady of my word,” Catherine replied.
“I am pleased you haven’t given up on the duke. He contends he will make you a good husband,” the earl said with a smile.
The dance came to an end, and the earl led Catherine to the refreshment room where they were joined by other guests. The earl had given Catherine more to think about. She did not know why she was surprised that James confided in the earl; after all, they had been close friends for many years, so it was natural to be taken into his confidence. She felt thrilled that James would speak of her favorably, as potentially his wife and mother of his children.
Children, Catherine thought.
She knew the duchess was fond of them, and the duchess wanted to ensure James had a son to secure the family legacy. This would be the expectation if she was to become James’s wife. She would one day become the Duchess of Pembroke. She could envision children running around the estate, being filled with fun and laughter.
James found her, for it was approaching the time for his dance. “You appeared quite lost in thought, Lady Catherine.”
She smiled at him. “Indeed, Your Grace.”
They stepped onto the dance floor as James twirled and swirled her around in their usual fashion.
“You wish to have children, Your Grace.” Catherine glanced at James, who raised a brow.
“I do wish to have a family. One day I hope to teach my son to manage the estate and secure the family fortune for future generations.”
“Hmm,” she replied.
“What concerns you?”
“I wondered if you had any children out of wedlock?”
James gave a small cough and gazed into Catherine’s face. “I can assure you I do not have any children out of wedlock.”
Catherine knew he would not lie, and she was satisfied with his answer.
“I had not thought of children much before this night. As you know, before going to Switzerland I did not wish to marry. Nonetheless, I know it would be my duty.”
James put his head close to her ear for but a second. “I know that we will gain great pleasure from making them.”
“Your Grace!” Catherine exclaimed without gazing at his face for she knew she blushed a deep red.
“Will you not sneak away and meet me in the garden for a spell?”
“I think it is best we do not, Your Grace.”
“Do you not wish to meet me there?”
“I do so wish to meet you there.”
“Then whyever not?” James said provocatively.
“I have sensed a difference among the guests this night. They have taken more of an avid interest in our actions, and I shall not risk it. Mama would never forgive me.”
“My heart bleeds,” James replied, but she was sure she saw a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.
“I am afraid you shall have to wait until we meet at the hunt for any such rendezvous.”
“I can assure you, my Cath, I am looking forward to it with bated breath.”
