Page 17 of Playing the Scoundrel

Mrs. Dunn glanced over at the pair and then back at Henry. “That’s Mr. Amos Bernard. He’s expressed a sincere interest in Miss Follett, and I think they will make an excellent match.”

Henry was certain he’d heard that name before. Even though he couldn’t immediately place where, he was certain it wasn’t in a positive circumstance. “Are you sure? Have you sufficiently investigated his character to ensure he’s worthy of her?”

“Are you questioning my knowledge of societal gossip in London?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.

Her confidence made him laugh. “Not at all. I only mean, what of his reputation in gentleman’s clubs? Is he a respectful man who pays his debts and kisses babies?”

“On par with you, I’d dare say,” she said, narrowing her eyes at him.

Henry looked up and watched them again as they talked, not sure why it stirred discomfort in his chest. If Mr. Bernard was Henry’s equal, did that mean he stood a chance with a woman like Miss Follett?

“Now you listen to me, Mr. Godwin.” Mrs. Dunn lowered her voice, giving his foot a side tap with her walking stick. “I like you because you're amusing, but I can’t have you pursuing her unless you're ready to settle down and be loyal to your bride, because Miss Follett has been through enough hardship and deserves much more than a philandering fool. I know you’re better than that, I’m only making sure you understand my meaning.”

He appreciated her straight-forward manner but found her confidence in him a bit daunting. “I understand, Mrs. Chrissy.”

She whacked him a little harder before saying, “It’s Mrs. Dunn to you.”

“Yes, of course.” Henry chuckled, taking a step back to avoid more beatings.

She turned toward her party, no doubt heading over to Miss Follett’s protection, but then paused. “If you’re intending to reform your ways and decide you want to throw your hat in the ring, you may wish to know we plan to visit the Montagu House Museum, day after next in the afternoon. Miss Follett is looking forward to seeing the Greek and Roman statues there.”

Henry couldn’t help grinning. Did that mean she was rooting for him? “Thank you for the information. You’re a gem, Mrs. Chrissy.”

She looked up sharply like she was about to reprimand him, but instead she smirked and walked away.

Much of the previous pain in his chest had subsided, but when Henry caught a glimpse of Lady Hangley in the crowd, he felt the weight of a decision he needed to make. Was he going to be the lover of widows the rest of his life? Or would he be capable of proving himself worthy of a woman like Miss Follett?

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