Page 38 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

“I have another suggestion. Matthew Proctor serves as my secretary and man of business. With the Season about to start, you will be busy attending many events, as well as trying to launch your bookstore. Would you like for me to loan Matthew to you?”

“That won’t be necessary. An hour ago, I hired my father’s former butler to manage both the bookstore and tearoom. He will deal with the workers while I concentrate on inventory and managing the ledgers. We are both very organized individuals and will work well together.”

The duke frowned. “That’s still a lot to accomplish while the Season begins.”

“I don’t plan on attending that many events,” Caroline revealed. “I will go to some in order to get a sense of what women are reading and what they might purchase from Madame Toufours. Once thetonrealizes I am a businesswoman, I doubt I’ll receive as many invitations to events. By then, I will have the information I need, though.”

“But what of the social aspect of the Season?”

“If you’re referring to my trying to find a husband, I won’t be placing myself on the Marriage Mart, Your Grace.”

One eyebrow rose. “Why not?”

“Although I have been gone from society for several years, people will still know I am the Earl of Templeton’s daughter. From what I’ve heard since I returned, my father had huge gambling debts and a less than savory reputation. I doubt any bachelors would seek my hand in marriage. Besides, I am already three and twenty. Most women my age are already wed.”

“Catherine was the same age when we wed.”

That startled her. “Truly?”

“Yes. She cared for her ill father for many years. He was injured in a carriage accident. As you can see, we are most happy together and the proud parents of several children.”

She shook her head. “The inheritance from my aunt will be used to establish my bookstore and tearoom, leaving me with little to live on. In order for it to become a success, I feel all of my waking hours will be devoted to my business. I won’t have time to consider a family, even if a gentleman did wish to marry me.”

His emerald eyes searched hers. “If I may give you a last bit of advice, Lady Caroline, I would ask that you not close the door to love. I know I am a better man in every aspect—even in my business dealings—because I have Catherine and our children in my life. You, too, may find everything in your life enhanced if love comes your way.”

She rose to her feet and he followed suit. “I will keep that in mind, Your Grace. Now, I must return to Rachel’s so I can send messages to my investors, notifying them of tomorrow’s closing.”

The duke escorted her into the foyer. “Where is your maid?”

“I came on my own.”

“I suppose that’s a part of the independent streak you gained while in America. London is a large city and, unfortunately, it can be a dangerous one, especially when it grows dark. I will see you home.”

“Caroline? I didn’t know you were here,” Catherine said as she came down the stairs.

She went to her husband and he kissed her. Not the all-consuming kiss that Caroline had witnessed between them but a brief, tender one that bespoke of their love. A pang of jealousy hit her, knowing she would never have what this couple did.

“I came to seek business advice from His Grace,” she said.

“I’m going to escort Lady Caroline back to Merrick’s,” the duke said. “Could you ask Cook to hold dinner for half an hour?”

“It’s an excellent night for a stroll. I’ll accompany you.” Looking to Barton, who’d appeared magically, she told the butler, “Please see that Cook is informed that we’ll dine a little later than usual.”

“Yes, Your Grace.” He opened the door for them and the trio went outside.

It only took a few minutes to reach the marquess’ townhome and Caroline thanked them both for seeing her home.

“I’m looking forward to seeing your establishment, my lady,” the duke said.

“And tea tomorrow,” Catherine added. “I hear that we’re going to be sampling items that will be served at Evie’s Bookstore and Tearoom.”

“Yes, that’s what Luke has planned,” Caroline confirmed. “Until tomorrow.”

*

Luke had spentmost of his day disappointed. He’d arrived at his sister’s in time for breakfast, with Alex in tow, assuming they would all ride to Sanderson’s office to sign the papers on the Mayfair property.

Instead, he’d learned that Caroline would go separately from her three investors. She informed them that she would be meeting with her new solicitor on the way to Sanderson’s office, explaining how she didn’t want to entangle any of her interests with theirs by using one of their three solicitors. While Luke understood—and actually agreed it was a wise move—he’d wanted to ride across London with her for selfish reasons.

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