Page 31 of The Uncouth Duke of Longford
“It was I who suggested that he offer a courtship,” Lord Wrexham continued as a flush crept into Rachel’s cheeks. “It would not be right for him to offer you so much attention without doing such a thing as that.”
“Thank you for that suggestion,” Rachel replied, wondering silently why he was telling her such a thing as that. “It was very considerate of you.”
“But you have not accepted it?”
Rachel blinked.
“The Duke informed me of it,” Lord Wrexham explained, as though he knew exactly what Rachel was thinking. “He was very matter of fact and explained all to me most succinctly. I can understand your reasons for wanting to be careful and cautious as regards you accepting the Duke’s courtship but there is something that he did not speak of which I feel I must express to you now.”
A little surprised, Rachel spread out both hands either side. “Please. Do tell me whatever it is you wish.”
Lord Wrexham smiled. “I thank you. I should say that the Duke has not given me permission to say this to you – though he has not refused permission either – and therefore, he may be a little frustrated should you tell him of what I have said. Though I do not think that you shall.”
A curl of curiosity ran up through Rachel’s frame and she nodded slowly. “Very well.”
“Capital.” Lord Wrexham replied. “Now, the reason that I tell you this is because I believe that there could be potential for an excellent match between the Duke of Longford and yourself. I understand that he has told you that there will be no furthering of your connection beyond courtship and that even that will be brought to an end once matters with his safety are resolved but in saying that, the Duke himself ignores the possibility that he might find himself drawn to you and, thereafter, eager for your connection to continue.”
Rachel’s eyes flared wide, one hand clenching into a fist as she fought to contain her emotions. Hope had leapt to life, making her heart sing but she forced it back down, attempting to understand what Lord Wrexham meant.
“He may very well find himself caring for you.” Lord Wrexham folded his arms across his chest. “He does not want to admit it, of course, for he has determined that he shall neverpermit himself to have any affection for any young lady simply because of the darkness in his past.”
“You mean to speak of his father?”
Lord Wrexham nodded. “But he is talking toyouabout such things and I am quite convinced that, once the culprit is exposed, the Duke will realise all that he feels for you and, in that regard, will silently determine to move forward rather than back.”
Rachel closed her eyes briefly, taking in a long, slow breath so that she might bring a little clarity to her thoughts. “I see.”
“The Duke is a good man, albeit with a shadowy demeanour,” Lord Wrexham finished, a little more gently than before. “I have known him for many years and I have seen how altered he has become ever since the passing of his father. I should like to see him restored to his former self, Miss Grifford, for he is not as he once was. I can assure you that, should such a thing occur, you would find him an excellent gentleman.”
“I already do,” Rachel replied, speaking a little more quickly than she had meant. “That is… ”
Blushing, she dropped her head and closed her eyes again, only to hear Lord Wrexham chuckle softly.
“I understand precisely and I am glad to hear it. I do hope that you have not thought ill of me for coming to speak to you so boldly, Miss Grifford. I want what is best for my friend and, in all truth, I believe that you also are in need of some kindness. To my mind, this would be an excellent match for the both of you which is why I come to ask you to consider accepting the Duke’s offer.”
Rachel pressed her lips together, opened her eyes and then looked at Lord Wrexham again. “Thank you for being honest with me, Lord Wrexham. I do value what you have told me.”
He smiled at her. “I am very glad to hear it. I shall take my leave of you now, before the Duke begins to wonder what it is that we are speaking of!”
Glancing across the room, Rachel caught the Duke’s eye for a moment, having not seen him enter the soiree. A rush of heat ran through her and she swallowed hard before looking away. “Good evening, Lord Wrexham. You have given me a great deal to think on and I promise, I shall give it a great deal of consideration.”
“I hope it is of benefit,” he replied, inclining his head just a little. “Good evening, Miss Grifford.”
Chapter Fourteen
Andrew eyed the glass of brandy which had been handed to him, a little uncertain as to whether or not he ought to drink it. He had been a good deal more cautious of late and even though the poisoned whiskey had been over a sennight ago, he still found his heart filled with nervousness every time he was given something to eat or drink at whatever occasion he attended.
“I watched that being poured myself,” Lord Wrexham murmured, coming around to stand beside Andrew. “You need not worry. There is nothing in it.”
“I thank you.” Andrew took a sip and then let out a slow breath. “I am sorry I am so uncertain at times like these. After what happened – ”
“I quite understand.” Lord Wrexham smiled. “Might I ask if Miss Grifford has given you an answer as yet?”
Andrew’s brow furrowed. “No, she has not. I confess that I did think she would give me her answer immediately and that she would not wait for such a long time considering.”
“Oh?” Lord Wrexham arched any eyebrow and then chuckled. “Why should you think such a thing? Do you not think that the lady ought to consider all that might happen because of a connection between you, should there be one? After all, you are asking a great deal of her.”
“Am I?” Andrew frowned. “I did not think it was all that significant. When the connection comes to an end – that is, after I have discovered who it is that has done such a thing and why – I will then be the one responsible for it in whatever way that Miss Grifford decides, and she will then be able to continue on, just as she pleases.”
