Page 46 of If Not for the Duke

“Progress continues, according to Clarke’s most recent correspondence.” The happiness in Bernie’s tone pleased him.

He’d been concerned that when she returned from Switzerland, she’d find little to occupy her mind or her time. She had few true friends. Those near her age weren’t interested in the same things she was. While she enjoyed fashion, she didn’t care to spend much time shopping. Her reading was varied but the fact that she’d rather read a book than look at a magazine set her apart as well.

Lena seemed similar to Bernie in many ways, though she was obviously well-liked. She was always visiting with others when he saw her at events. He was pleased the two had found each other.

He nearly scoffed at the thought, willing to admit the truth to himself. He liked thathehad met Lena. She was an unexpected brightness in his life. Each time he saw her, or even thought he would, his mood lightened. She appealed to him in many ways, some of which he didn’t understand.

However, he had yet to determine whether she could be trusted. That was a leap he wasn’t ready to take. He moved closer to the doorway and looked inside.

Lena sat on the edge of the settee, hands on her lap, her head tilted to the side as she listened to Bernie. Her gown was a pale pink, much like a swath of spun sugar, a delicate treat he’d once had while in Italy.

She was truly a beautiful woman with a slender frame and long limbs. There was a strength to her body and in her spirit. She was kind and intelligent. But her reserve made him wonder at its cause.

His physical reaction to her was puzzling. Concerning, actually. He couldn’t think of the last time a woman had made him feel like this. Each time he saw her, his breath caught, his heartbeat sped, and his entire body tightened. Was this only lust? He didn’t think so. While he would enjoy another kiss, he also looked forward to speaking with her.

Then she turned her head and looked directly at him as if sensing the weight of his regard. Her lips curved, and her eyes sparkled, suggesting she was pleased to see him. Good, because he was pleased to see her as well.

“Good afternoon. I hope I’m not interrupting.”

Lena rose to curtsy. “Good afternoon, Your Grace.” She placed a slight emphasis on the last word. No one else would notice, but he did. He liked that they shared a private jest.

“Sterling, have you come to join us?” Bernie asked with a smile.

“Perhaps for a few minutes, if you don’t mind.” He bent to kiss his sister’s offered cheek then glanced around the room. “Where’s Aunt Edith?”

“She has a bit of a headache so is resting in her room.”

He nodded then gestured for Lena to sit before he did the same. Their aunt seemed to have an even more delicate constitution than Bernie had in her younger years.

“I hope it’s nothing serious,” Lena said as she smoothed her skirts.

“As do I.” Bernie frowned. “She should find more activities that bring her joy. So few things do.”

“You don’t think she likes attending events with you?” Sterling asked.

“She says she does, but those don’t seem to be enough.”

He hid a smile. Bernie was practically describing herself until she’d started on the goal of discovering all she could about Oak Island. Having a purpose could be very satisfying, something he could attest to, as well.

“Speaking of events, which ones are you attending in the coming week?” Lena asked as she reached for her tea and took a sip.

They discussed the possibilities, which included two balls, a garden party, and several musicals, as Foster entered with a tray.

“I took the liberty of requesting fresh tea and another cup,” Sterling said.

If he hadn’t been watching Lena, he wouldn’t have noted her lips tightening, as if she wasn’t particularly pleased with his intention to remain for a time. Surely it wasn’t because he’d interrupted her questions about Oak Island.

They passed a pleasant half hour before Lena said, “I must be going.”

“Already?” Bernie seemed surprised then glanced at the clock on the nearby table. “I didn’t realize how quickly time was passing. Are you certain you can’t stay?”

“I have another call to make.” She stood with a smile.

“Of course.” They bid their goodbyes with Sterling adding his.

“It was a pleasure to see you again, Your Grace.” Lena curtsied.

“I enjoyed the visit. I hope you call on us again soon.” Sterling was disappointed he and Lena hadn’t had a moment alone but told himself it was for the best.

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