Page 32 of The Baron Takes a Bet
“What did he tell you of our relationship?”
Holly paused, remembering what John had said about his nephew.
“Only that you didn’t approve of his sort. He said some people only knew what they were taught and that I shouldn’t be too hard on you, if ever we were to meet,” she said. “But I guess he knew we would meet one day.”
Though the lighting wasn’t great, Holly could see a blush touch the bridge of Gavin’s nose. He folded his arms across his chest.
“He didn’t want you to be hard on me?” he asked, and she nodded. “Why would he say that?”
Holly swallowed as she walked around the room.
“I may have been unkind when he first explained the situation. You must know, I was terribly protective of him.”
“Yes, so I’ve gathered,” Gavin breathed. “Uncle John was lucky to have someone like you. Unfortunately, he explained our relationship perfectly. I was raised to disparage people like him. My aunt in particular made it a point to criticize his lifestyle, and for a long time I thought she was correct.”
“Do you still?”
“No,” he said. “I’ve learned some time ago that the only judgment I can pass on someone is kindness.”
“That’s not really a judgement.”
“Exactly.”
Holly tilted her head.
“Is that why you’re so eager to meet his requests? To make amends to him in some way?”
Gavin shrugged.
“Possibly. But having gotten to know you and your family, I believe Uncle John was, at the very least, a good judge of character when it came to his friends.”
Holly smiled in spite of herself, but tried to shake it off.
“That’s kind of you to say. But I must insist that we write down a proper expenditure. Just like the ledger you have for Felton House. I intend to pay all of that back in full, just as soon as the farm can turn a profit. But I also wish to keep track of the cost of Katrina’s dresses, as well as fans, gloves, and the likes for her—”
“And you.”
Holly shook her head.
“No, and that’s why I came to talk to you. I’ve no need for new dresses. I know your intentions are kind, but that money can go elsewhere. I have no need for frivolous things—”
“Clothing is hardly frivolous,” he said with a frown.
“Shopping on Bond Street can be.”
“Well, I’m sorry London doesn’t meet your modest expectations, but as you and your sister will be representing thisbarony, I can’t very well have you both looking like paupers. Can I?”
“Well… no.” Holly had to admit, she hadn’t thought of that.
“And I know you don’t wish to offend the memory of my uncle.”
“Of course not.”
“Then might you do me this small favor of making yourself presentable for the ton, particularly because you will be representing Bairnsdale, and thus your old friend?”
Holly bit the inside of her cheek. Yes, she supposed she could do that.
“Yes,” she said softly, annoyed at how deftly he had gotten around her defenses.
