Page 16 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

“What?” she asked eagerly.

“I’m to help her find an existing bookstore to purchase or property where she can establish one. I told her my dear sister-in-law was a famous author and said I would ask if you would attend the opening day of the shop—and if you would sign copies of your books that were for sale.”

Catherine beamed. “I’d be delighted to. I’ve never done that before. Oh, how wonderful to see the people who buy my book. Why, I could possibly give a reading while at the store.”

“That would be marvelous,” Luke said. “Caroline would like that very much.”

“So it’s already Caroline?” Jeremy asked.

He shrugged. “I think of her that way. I’m not addressing her as such, though she and Rachel are on a first name basis. With the time I hope to spend with her, I believe that she could be Caroline to me very soon.”

“Youaretaken with her,” his brother said in wonder. “I didn’t know if I would ever see you this way.”

“I don’t know for sure that she’s the one but I want to get to know her and give our relationship a chance to grow. She’s beautiful, intelligent, and mature. The most confident woman I’ve met, excluding present company, of course. I already want to spend time with her and have her meet the rest of my family—and I haven’t even kissed her!” Luke declared.

Jeremy and Catherine exchanged one of their looks.

“Then I think before the Season begins, Duke, we need to invite Lady Caroline to an intimate dinner. Only family in attendance.”

His hand cupped the back of her neck. “A wonderful idea, Duchess.” He leaned in to kiss her.

“Forgot dinner,” Luke said. “You two may eat alone. I have much to do before I go hunting for a bookstore tomorrow with Lady Caroline.”

He rose and kissed Catherine’s cheek. “Thank you.”

“I am always happy to help. Especially in matters of the heart,” she replied. “Bring Lady Caroline for tea tomorrow afternoon. I’ll be sure Rachel and Evan come, as well. Leah and Alex, too. We ladies can speak about the Season and I’ll extend an invitation for everyone to stay for dinner.” Her eyes lit with mischief. “Of course, I’ll let the others know now. I’ll pen notes to them after dinner.”

“Be sure those notes get written because I see the hungry look in my brother’s eyes,” Luke warned. “I’d tell him no bedroom games until after that gets done.”

“Get out,” Jeremy said pleasantly. “The sooner you’re gone and these notes are written, the sooner my appetite can be appeased.”

Luke left, laughing. He was now on a mission—to learn everything about bookstores before he met up with Lady Caroline Andrews in the morning.

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