Page 55 of The Earl's Disguised Governess
Yet, although his words sounded encouraging, something like uncertainty flickered across Graham’s face, and Ernest could not figure out the root of it.
“Ernest, you must believe me. It is not access to Miss Gundry that drives tonight’s dinner invitation. I simply want the best for you.”
“And you truly think that marrying Lady Samantha is what is best for me?”
“Well, why would it not be?”
The question hit Ernest terribly, and the realization of his answer that he dared not share settled in his chest. He was overwhelmed, his stomach growing heavy, at the thought of marrying a woman who … who was not Miss Gundry. His thoughts slowly pieced together the revelation, and he sagged against the wall, even as Graham bypassed him, intent on retrieving wine.
He could not marry Miss Gundry or give in to his overwhelming feelings for her that were steadily growing, along with his need to protect her, but he could not marry another woman, either.
He looked into the dining room, where Lady Samantha watched from the doorway, waiting for either Ernest or Grahamto return. Ernest steeled himself before he walked into the room, smiling politely.
“Lady Samantha,” he greeted. “Mrs Elizabeth Brooks.” He bowed to them, and they both rose, curtsying.
“Lord Bannerdown,” Lady Samantha greeted in return.
“It is lovely to see you again. I apologize it has been so long.”
“It is no matter,” she assured him as they all took their seats. “Although I must admit the chairman’s letters have kept me plenty company.”
“They have?”
“Indeed. He writes extensively. He has been telling me tales of Archibald. It is strange how it has been almost a year, and yet everybody is still watching me like a grieving widow. I do not want their pity, only their acceptance of me going back into Society when the Season begins again.”
“You have plans for it?” he asked, happy that her focus did not seem to be on pursuing him, at least.
“I do,” she answered. “And I cannot burden my dear aunt for much longer.”
“You are always a blessing to have,” her aunt assured her. “However, I have explained to Lady Samantha that she must not wait too long to reenter and find another match. I understand grief, but Lady Samantha must understand Society.”
The young lady nodded as if understanding, even if her aunt now addressed Ernest himself.
“And yourself, Lord Bannerdown?” Lady Samatha asked as Graham returned with a bottle of wine. He looked pleased at his guests conversing. “Is there to be a Lady Bannerdown anytime soon? The Season must hold prospects for you, must it not?”
“Ah,” he said, pausing. “I imagine so. Graham, that wine looks delicious. Is it European?”
“It is Italian,” he answered. “Good eye for the name.”
“I have been listening in on Lady Florence’s lessons.” He laughed. “I am learning the language patterns from Miss Gundry herself.”
“An accomplished governess, from what I hear,” Lady Samantha noted, smiling.
“Indeed, she is,” Ernest answered. She is also accomplished at haunting my dreams at night and somehow always being there when I both want and need her.
“And yourself, Mr Courtenay?” Lady Samantha asked when the first course of dinner was served. “Is there a Mrs Courtenay on your horizon?”
“Marriage is not for a fellow like me,” he grumbled. “I must admit the war changed me somewhat. I was jollier then. Now, I fear I would make any wife of mine miserable with my dour moods I am prone to and my long hours at the hospital.”
“Of course, she would have to understand that,” Lady Samantha said, her eyes sparkling. “A lady who truly appreciated a man of your position would surely understand.”
“I would hope so.” He laughed quietly. “Or perhaps she would chase me down to the hospital herself and cause a scene. Can you imagine, I am up to my eyes in paperwork and in storms my wife, asking why I was late home for dinner?”
Lady Samantha laughed aloud at that, and after the weight she had seemed to carry when she visited Little Harkwell, Ernest was happy to hear her laughter. Grief could not take everything away.
The wine was poured, and Graham noted Lady Samantha’s enjoyment.
“You have a good taste for fine wine, Lady Samantha?”
