Page 29 of Loving a Dowager
Bronwyn and Lady Irene both stood to depart.
Lady Irene took two steps, but then whirled around to bend over and whisper in Theo’s ear. Theo’s eyes went wide, and she shifted her gaze to Archbroke and then back to Lady Irene again. The girl shrugged her shoulders and said for all to hear, “The midwife swears it works every time.”
Flanked by Bronwyn and Lady Irene, Landon escorted the ladies from the room.
Theo’s gaze locked on Henrietta. Henrietta rummaged through the slew of birthing advise her own midwife had provided. She wanted to roll her eyes as she recalled her midwife laughing and saying, “Marital relations is wot got ye here, and it might well be the answer to getting the bub out.” Henrietta gave Theo a wink and a nod.
“I believe I’ve had enough excitement today.” Theo rolled to her feet. “Dear, will you escort me to our chambers?”
Walter glanced down at Henrietta and mouthed—is all well? Henrietta gave him a broad smile and nodded.
Archbroke scooped his very pregnant wife up into his arms and cradled her to him. “It would be my pleasure, love.”
Looking over her husband’s shoulder, Theo grinned and said, “Lord Weathersbee, please stay. I’m certain Aunt Henri will be able to assist you with the last few remaining items to be resolved.”
Henrietta burst into laughter as soon as the door clicked closed.
“What is so amusing?” Walter asked.
Walter’s lipscurved into a smile as he admired Henrietta’s merriment. He always believed her beautiful, but with her cheeks flushed, her eyes twinkling with glee, and lips slightly parted, Henrietta was stunning to behold.
She clutched her stomach and inhaled deeply. “Archbroke has no idea what Theo has planned for him, and it is supremely satisfying to see my niece keep her genius of a husband on his toes.”
“Why do you not whole heartedly approve of Archbroke? He appears to be a devoted husband, and unquestionably in love with Theo.”
“Mayhap it is because I’m a tad protective of Theo. Having lost all the members of her immediate family, I never want her to feel alone.”
Henrietta’s answer was revealing. Embraced as she had been by George and his family, Walter never considered the impact upon Henrietta of having been isolated from her family. Her ducal family were a dull lot, whereas Henrietta was a perfect fit within the Hadfields.
He moved to sit upon the settee next to Henrietta. “Did you feel alone after your papa disowned you?”
She shifted closer and he wrapped his arm about her shoulders. The need to protect her from hurt manifested within him in a way it never had before. He could easily guard her from an outside physical threat, but to safeguard her heart would require more consideration.
Faced away from him, she answered, “There were times when I wished to have my mama’s counsel. However, Theo’s grandmama always sensed those moments and provided me reassurance and advice that I’ve come to realize my own mama was incapable of providing. My hope is that I can continue to be here for Theo, like her grandmama was for me.” She shifted and placed her palm over his chest. “Enough about me. What are we to do about Otterman and Lady Irene?”
“Otterman’s finances are a fine mess but not as dismal as he believes. He simply needs to be taught how to balance his estate ledgers correctly.” He liked the feel of her hand on him, but it was also greatly distracting.
Henrietta patted him over his heart. “Are you to be Otterman’s tutor?” She ran her finger down the seam of his jacket, freeing one button at a time.
“Actually, I’ve assigned the task to Nicholas. He has a fine mind for numbers and a deeper well of patience than I possess. Did you manage to sort matters with Bertha?”
She slipped her hand under the material of his jacket. “Aye. We discussed a number of other eligible men, and I believe she now has her sights on one of them.”
He pulled her closer and dipped his head for a quick kiss. The pretty pink blush reappeared on her cheeks.
“Speaking of your nephew, has he mentioned who will be his marchioness?”
“No. However, he has denounced the idea of a love match.”
“How interesting.” She wrapped both arms about his waist and pressed her cheek to him. “We shall have to join forces and see that he accepts every invitation that hits your salver.”
Hugging her to him, he basked in the idea of partnering with Henrietta. Before his mind could stray, Walter released a groan and said, “There are matters I must attend to at the office.”
She pulled back and smiled. “I understand.” Henrietta stood and held out her hand for him.
He took her hand and brought it to his lips before standing. He was a fool to forgo this opportunity, but they were in Archbroke’s home and he had delayed attending to his duties at Neale & Sons too many hours already. Henrietta led him out to the foyer and he collected his hat, gloves, and great coat from Hinley, who discreetly backed away.
Rolling to her tiptoes, Henrietta placed a chaste kiss upon his cheek. “I look forward to seeing you later this eve.” She turned him about and gently pushed him towards the door.
