Page 39 of Loving a Dowager
“Of course, Mama, but we shan’t always be able to come to everyone’s aid.” When had her son grown into such a wise man? She gave him a wink and allowed Walter to escort her to Lord Bartram’s box.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Having Henrietta walking next to him, with her hand upon his arm, was an experience Walter had dreamt of often but never believed possible. His steps, lighter than ever before, carried them through the theatre with speed. The determined set of her lips had Walter grinning. He admired Henrietta’s loyalty and fierceness.
Landon hastened to overtake them just before they reached Lord Bertram’s box. A footman held the curtain back for them.
As they entered, Henrietta was slightly hidden behind Landon. Lady Bertha spotted Walter and greeted him with a pretty smile that quickly disappeared at the sight of Henrietta. A peculiar response given they were there to save her.
“Lord Hadfield. Lord Weathersbee. Henrietta. How lovely to see you all this eve.” Lady Bertha looked about and Miss White came to stand next to her cousin.
Henrietta replied, “We have been asked to extend an invitation to you and Miss White to join us in Lord Archbroke’s box.”
Miss White’s eyes went wide and her stiff shoulders relaxed before her gaze collided with Lady Bertha’s conflicted features.
Lady Bertha’s internal debate was clear for all to see. She had always been one you could read easily, and it was for that reason Walter had tempered his interactions with the woman for years. He wasn’t blind. He’d known of her interest in him, but he wasn’t one to cause hurt to another. Unrequited love was excruciatingly painful.
Henrietta leaned in closer. “What is the matter, Bertha? I’ve come to rescue you and Miss White.”
Lady Bertha nodded. She turned to address her brother, who was scowling at their party. “Brother, Marina and I shall enjoy this evening’s performance from Lord Archbroke’s box.” Lady Bertha didn’t wait for a response, but grabbed Miss White’s hand and marched out.
Henrietta was close on her friend’s heels, her whispered plea barely reaching his ears. “Bertha.”
Lady Bertha rounded upon Henrietta, and only Henrietta’s quick reaction prevented them from colliding. “You! You are not my friend.”
Walter remained close but far enough away to afford the ladies some privacy.
Henrietta’s brows shot up. Her spine stiffened and she asked, “What are you saying?”
“While I am grateful you rescued us from Bartholomew and the awful Lord Bertram, I detest being lied to.” Lady Bertha’s ire disappeared for a moment before returning. “Did you know Lord Bertram hasn’t seen his children since last March? He’s not wallowing in grief. He’s been lying about with his mistress. To think I thought he might be someone I could come to care for.” All Lady Bertha’s energy seemed to seep from her. Bent head, rounded shoulders, she continued, “That horrid man informed me he’d not give up his mistress but would quite happily see to ensuring our wedding was valid prior to shipping me off to his country estate.” Hands covering her face, she spoke the last few words in sobs.
Walter shifted his weight to his back foot and Landon glanced at him with a shrug. Henrietta wrapped her arms about Lady Bertha.
Except Lady Bertha pulled away and glared. “Don’t. You are not to comfort me. You’ve already had a husband.” Lady Bertha pointed to a stunned Landon. “Raised two strapping boys. You could have simply told me you wanted Weathersbee for yourself.”
Lady Bertha grabbed Miss White and marched away, leaving a stunned and ghostly white Henrietta behind.
Walter turned to Landon. “Take your mother home. I’ll take care of matters.”
Lengthening his stride to catch up to the women, Walter was near parallel when Nicholas darted out from the box and ran headlong into Miss White. His nephew caught the girl stumbling backwards and righted her with speed and care.
“Are you all right, Miss White?”
Cheeks a bright red, Marina nodded.
“Please allow me to escort you inside.” Nicholas placed her shaking hand upon his arm and the pair disappeared into the box.
Walter turned and said, “Lady Bertha, a moment of your time, please.”
Moisture filled the woman’s eyes. His chest ached at the sight of the woman’s upset. He shifted to block her from the view of others and retrieved a handkerchief, which he handed to Lady Bertha.
She took the clean white linen. “My thanks.”
He hated the fact that it was his rejection that caused Lady Bertha’s pain. “I’ve loved Henrietta since I was a lad. Believe me, I fully understand how you feel. I’ve wanted, tried to love others, but my heart refuses to listen to reason.”
“Henrietta is rather loveable.” Lady Bertha gave him a weak smile. “I didn’t really mean all those things...” He narrowed his gaze and Lady Bertha added, “Well, maybe a little. I was angry, but nonetheless I shouldn’t have…”
“I’m certain Henrietta will understand once you explain.” He winged his arm. “I’m sorry I cannot return your regard, but perhaps we can still enjoy the evening’s performance as friends.”
