Page 80 of The Duke's Impossible Deal
“You speak as though you are frail beyond measure, Lady Cora, but the woman before me could not be described in such terms,” Tobias stated. “Only youth and fools think that old age means weakness.”
“And yet, by my eyes, you are still young,” Cora countered.
“I think you and I both know that appearances are often deceiving, My Lady.” Tobias made a magnanimous gesture that made Rowen’s heart soar. “I have the appearance of youth, but the heart of age. And I think the opposite is true about you.”
“It seems I am not the only person with a gilded tongue.” Cora gave him an appraising look. “It is nice to know you are more than just a pretty face.”
“High praise, indeed, Lady Cora.” Tobias inclined his head.“I shall try to be worthy of it.”
“See that you do.” Cora turned to face Rowen. “Rowen, you and His Grace really must come and stay at my country estate with the children. It has been too long since I have seen them.”
Rowen just managed to keep her jaw from dropping to the floor. Verity exchanged a look with her, her eyes wide.
In their years of friendship, there were only a handful of people Cora had invited to stay at her country home.
“It would be a privilege and an honor to join you, Lady Cora.” Tobias inclined his head towards her.
His somber tone told Rowen that he had seen their reaction and understood at least a little of the offer that had been made.
“And of course, we would love to have you stay with us as well. And bring along anyone you want. I would not wish for you to make the journey alone.”
Rowen’s heart swelled even further. Cora had a close friend whom she did not like to be parted from, and one of the many reasons she did not travel was that few people would extend an invitation to a commoner.
Cora’s eyes widened, and she nodded. “A most generous offer.”
Tobias shrugged. “You have been a dear friend to Rowen. You and anyone you care about will always be welcome in my home. That extends to all of you.”
“Careful, Your Grace, or else Verity will bring all of her dogs.” Cora laughed.
Tobias took it in his stride and gave Rowen’s friends his most charming smile. “I have no doubt the children would be delighted.”
“And then we will have to deal with Georgie and Alistair begging for a puppy of their own.” Rowen shook her head, though the thought of Georgie and Alistair’s excitement brought a smile to her lips.
Verity gave her a sidelong look. “When I last saw you, I did mention that Socks has just had puppies, and they are looking for good homes.”
“Perhaps we should visit them and pick one,” Tobias suggested.
“Are you really suggesting we get the children a puppy?” Rowen folded her arms across her chest. “Can you imagine the chaos?”
“I am sure it is nothing we cannot handle.” Tobias grinned.
Rowen gave him a flat look. “That is because you have not listened to the twins argue about whose book is whose.”
“I suppose you have a point.” Tobias rubbed his chin thoughtfully and then gave her a wicked grin as he spread his arms wide. “We shall just have to get two then.”
Verity and Cora let out delighted laughs, and Rowen shook her head in exasperation. But she could not quite keep the smile off her face.
The music shifted, moving from a lively waltz into something more sedate. Rowen noticed Cora look towards the dance floor, her hand gripping her walking stick.
How long has it been since she danced?
Rowen caught Tobias studying Cora before he looked at her. She knew what he was going to say before he said it. She put a hand on her chest, her heart full.
“Would you do me the honor of this dance, Lady Cora?” Tobias held out his arm and added in a stage whisper, “I suspect you will be able to show us young things a thing or two.”
“I might.” Cora handed her walking stick to Rowen. “I suppose we shall see if your feet are as quick as your tongue.”
Rowen watched as Cora looped an arm through Tobias’s and let him lead her onto the dance floor.
