Page 37 of Falling for a Forsaken Marquess
“You simply be yourself,” Mrs Mellors whispered to her as the butler led them to the parlour. “Your sweet nature will win your mother-in-law to you.”
Agnes nodded, her mouth too dry to speak. The invitation had not stated that Lord Hampton would be present, and Agnes did not know how she would react to him knowing what she knew about him and Phoebe. They arrived at the parlour door, but she had time to draw in a deep breath as the butler announced their arrival and gestured for them to go inside.
“My dear Mrs Mellors,” the duchess greeted. “How lovely to see you. And you, dear Agnes. How are you?”
They curtsied before taking their seats and exchanging niceties with the duchess who seemed genuinely happy to see Agnes.
“How are you, Agnes?” the woman repeated. “My boys have told me all about how you rescued a little boy.”
“I did not do any rescuing, Your Grace,” Agnes corrected, surprised that the marquess and his brother had been talking about her.
“Lord Hampton was the one who was able to do something to help the child. If not for his carriage taking us to the physician, I do not know what would have become of the injured boy. Your son is the hero.”
“Now, now,” the duchess said. “Do not be so modest, dear. My sons praised your actions, calling you a brave woman. We all admire you very much.”
Agnes doubted the marquess felt that way. She could believe it of Lord Sculthorpe as he had been much friendlier when she had met him, but Lord Hampton did not strike her as the type of man to compliment her.
“Thank you, Your Grace. My gratitude to your sons as well for thinking of me so highly.”
“It is only the truth, dear,” the duchess insisted. “Now, tell me more about yourself. We did not get to speak as much as I would have liked to the last time, so I would like to make up for it right now.”
“I’m afraid I’m a rather boring person, Your Grace,” Agnes confessed.
“Nonsense, dear,” the duchess argued. “A woman who runs to save a child is an interesting one, even if you do not think so. I wish to meet your parents one day.”
“Well, it seems you are indeed fortunate, Your Grace,” said Mrs Mellors. “Agnes’ parents arrived just yesterday.”
The duchess clapped her hands, her rings clanging together.
“That is exciting! When do you suppose I could invite them? I’m certain my husband would like to speak to another man while I speak to your mother and sister. We can make it a family meeting of sorts. Of course, we are not family yet, but I hope we shall be one day.”
Agnes didn’t know where to look. The duchess had decided that she wanted her son to marry her, but the marquess would make that final decision. It remained to be seen what they would say once he announced his intention to marry Phoebe instead.
“I am glad that you approve of the match, Your Grace,” said Mrs Mellors. “I have never been wrong about a couple before. Your son and Agnes will make a wonderful couple, but I suppose we should give them time to become acquainted.”
“You have read my mind, Mrs Mellors,” the duchess agreed. “I wonder where my son is now? I did tell him to join us whenever he was free, but I suppose he had something to do.”
Lord Hampton suddenly appeared at the doorway as if summoned by his mother’s words. “Good afternoon, ladies,” he greeted.
Agnes and Mrs Mellors stood up and curtsied, only sitting when he had bowed his head towards them.
“I trust this day finds you well?” he asked them, taking a seat.
“Very well, My Lord,” Mrs Mellors replied. “We trust the same for you.”
“I am glad you could finally join us, dear,” the duchess said. “We were just talking about you and Agnes and what a wonderful couple you will make. Did you know that her family is currently in town? No, I don’t suppose you did because I just found out myself. I shall invite them to tea, or perhaps I should make it a dinner. What do you think?”
Agnes watched the marquess from below her eyelashes, mortified at the duchess’ frankness. She had never expected the woman to admit that she found them to be a wonderful couple.
Fortunately, Lord Hampton appeared to take it in stride because he did not look angry or annoyed.
“Whatever you decide is best, Mother,” he said. “I know how fond you are of having guests. A dinner might be a nice change, but you shall make the last decision.”
“I suppose so,” the duchess replied. “I will give it more thought. Did they say how long they will be staying here, Agnes?”
Agnes was finally forced to look up. “Just a few days, Your Grace. They cannot stay too long.”
The duchess nodded. “Then I suppose I should think quickly. Are you enjoying your stay in Cheltenham, dear? You have been here for little more than a week, I think.”
