Page 68 of If Not for the Duke

“I haven’t decided if I can trust him.”

“While I appreciate a certain reserve when it comes to relationships, you’re going to have to trust someone eventually,” Marbury said.

“You sound like my sister.” At Marbury’s puzzled look, Sterling added, “She frequently suggests I should learn to trust others.” He shrugged. “Difficult when one has often been disappointed.”

“But rewarding if one places trust in the right person.” Marbury’s smile suggested he had found that person. “I’m pleased to say my wife has changed my mind about such things.”

The earl’s affection for his countess was easy to see, especially when they were together, but even when Marbury spoke of her. The meaning of marriage vows—to love and honor—took on a whole new meaning.

Sterling didn’t remember his own mother well as she’d died while giving birth to Bernie. But she had been distant, leaving his care to the nanny. His parent’s marriage had been more of a business arrangement. While that wasn’t uncommon even in these modern times, Sterling was beginning to think that wasn’t what he wanted.

Was his growing attraction for Lena a sign he should consider her as a potential bride? How could he think about the possibility of a future when the issue of Oak Island stood between them?

Her disapproval of Clarke was no secret. While it was easy to believe the dig would soon be over, that wasn’t a certainty. He need only look at how long her father had searched to know it wasn’t an easy task, despite what Clarke claimed.

Was he ready to trust her? Yes, and yet no. She hadn’t done anything to make him think her unworthy. Her affection and concern for Bernie were certainly in her favor. But more than once, an uncomfortable look had come over her expression, as if she were guilty of something. Like she’d been caught in a lie.

Or she had a secret.

That didn’t sit well with him. He didn’t like secrets. Secrets too often led to betrayal.

Before he could give the matter further thought, Viscount Ludham entered the room.

Marbury noted his entrance as well and raised a brow. “Want some assistance with Ludham?”

“Yes, I would appreciate that.” He’d like another opinion on the viscount’s response to his questions.

They remained where they were, finishing their drinks while Ludham greeted a few others before settling at a table by himself. It amused Sterling that he ignored both him and Marbury completely.

“Looks like as good of an opportunity as we can expect.” Sterling pushed back his chair.

“Agreed. Let us see what he has to say for himself.” Marbury stood, as well.

Sterling led the way to the viscount’s table. “Ludham.”

The man looked between Sterling and Marbury, his expression less than pleased as he slowly rose to bow. “Good evening. I trust you are both well.”

“We are indeed.” Rather than wait for an invitation, Sterling pulled out a chair. “You don’t mind if we join you for a moment.” He didn’t pose it as a question.

“Not at all.” The glare he gave them said otherwise. “Please do.”

Marbury and Sterling both took a seat, leaving Ludham no choice but to join them. “Something on your mind?”

“It’s more that we are wondering what is on yours,” Marbury said.

He frowned. “How so?”

“How well do you know Walter Clarke?” Sterling asked.

“Your treasure hunter?” Ludham leaned back in his seat with an amused expression. “Not well. Why?”

“You and Winslow have been in contact with him.”

Ludham stilled. “What makes you think that?”

Sterling opened his mouth to tell him that he’d overheard him, but Marbury interrupted with a warning glance at Sterling. “A friend of a friend.”

“Who?”

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