Page 30 of The Duke's Stubborn Wallflower
“That’s clearly why Lady Olivia is seeking you out. Oh wait, no, she isn’t.”
“Because she is so enthused by your company.” Nigel towered over his cousin. “What exactly is it that you think you offer her that I could not?”
“A life. Alongand full life with me.” Lord Briston met Nigel’s gaze, anger flaring wildly in his eyes before it faded.
Nigel felt as though he had been punched. All the air fled from him, and he slumped. “That was a low blow, cousin.”
“But it is not untrue,” Lord Briston murmured. “Though you are right. And well, we are looking for a cure, so perhaps there is some hope still.”
Nigel tried to smile, but it felt more like a grimace. “Hope or no, you are right. I cannot offer Ol — Lady Olivia what you can. You should get to know her more.”
“I should like that. I thought perhaps to call at Pembleton Manor tomorrow.” Lord Briston looked thoughtful. “Although perhaps a bouquet of roses would be more appropriate.”
Of course, his first thought would be roses.He only just stopped himself from smiling. “Why don’t we invite them for a promenade? I find that the best conversations seem to happen when one is out and doing something.”
“There is some truth in that cousin.” Lord Briston nodded. “A promenade it is. Though I do not suppose a bouquet of roses would hurt. That is the sort of thing young ladies like, is it not?”
Nigel shook his head but found himself rather unwilling to educate his cousin on the ways of one particular young lady.Let him find out for himself. I can help them connect, but I will not play matchmaker.
As Nigel thought about the next day and the invitation he would send in the morning, he promised himself that he would not talk to Olivia any more than necessary. He would be cordial — he could see the sense in that — but he need not be overly so.
He would invite Olivia on a promenade, and Jane, and he would do his best to keep away from Olivia.I can do that. I do not need to spend any more time than I need with her.
Chapter Eleven
A Walk in the Park
“Ow!” Olivia exclaimed looking at the red droplet of blood forming on her thumb. “Well, I suppose I can cross needlework off Jane’s list.”
Olivia was sitting in the drawing room of Pembleton house with the booklet of hobbies Jane had made for her. She had been attempting to try some needlework and had quickly remembered why she had given it up in the first place.
“Honestly, this is what modistes are for.” Olivia frowned out of the window.
Echoes of the Danterberry ball the night before ran through her mind. The odd but strangely nice interaction she had had with Nigel sat at the forefront her memory.Why do I keep thinking of Nigel? It should be Lord Briston I am thinking about.
She tried to recall some of her conversations with Lord Briston but could only remember the discomfort between them. She shook herself. It was only because they had spent so little time together, that was all.
A knock sounded at the door, and Olivia went to open it. The Pembleton’s footman, Mr. Stapes bowed to her.
“I have a message for yourself and Miss Jane. It is an invitation.” Mr. Stapes handed Olivia a small, folded note.
It must be from Lord Briston!Olivia smiled, but as she opened the note, she saw with surprise that it was not from Lord Briston but rather from Nigel instead. She read:
Dear Lady Olivia and Miss Jane,
My cousin and I would be most honoured if you would join us for a promenade about Hyde park this afternoon? Perhaps two o’clock would suit you well?
Yours,
Duke Nigel Glassley
P.S. You will note, I have not sent you flowers of any description — whether it is to create some semblance of mystery, I leave to your discretion.
Olivia bit back a laugh as she read the note and scribbled a hasty reply.
Dear Duke,
Miss Jane and I would be delighted to promenade with yourself and your cousin this afternoon. We shall meet you at two o’clock.
