Page 63 of The Duke's Unclaimed Bride
Edith did her best to smile, but was still feeling the sting of Laurence’s remark. She hadn’t expected high praise, butpresentable?
“It is wonderful to see you again, Lord Mallowby,” she said politely.
“Oh, you do flatter me, Your Grace.” James smiled.
“Not at all,” Edith assured.
“I do say, Your Grace, it is wonderful to see you have left the cocoon of your study to grace us with your presence this evening.”
“I have been busy.”
“You say that frequently, dear friend. I am sure your charming wife and child also miss you. I suggest you keep an eye on her tonight; she looks absolutely stunning in that dress. I dare say if you do not keep an eye on her, every other man here will happily do it for you.”
Laurence’s arm tightened around hers. She glanced at him and raised an eyebrow.
“His Grace does not need to worry about such things,” she interjected. “I am not one to have wandering eyes.”
“Oh, I trust you implicitly, Your Grace,” James clarified. “It’s the other men here that I don’t trust!”
Edith snorted and covered her mouth. “Lord Mallowby, you are too much.”
“That makes me right for events like this.” James laughed. “Now, I do believe I saw your friends over there. The Duke and Duchess of Richmond?”
Oh, thank heavens.
He pointed over to where Ava and Christian were talking with a younger-looking lord. Edith was sure she had seen the blond man before; she just couldn’t place him.
“Ah, thank you for pointing them out.”
“Of course! Although I am afraid it is not altruistic. I need to borrow your husband briefly to discuss a matter of business,” James said apologetically.
“And this business cannot wait?” Laurence growled. “Or could not be dealt with through a letter?”
“If it could, do you think I would be bothering you here and now?” James asked.
Edith did her best to hold in a laugh, taking out her fan to cool her face. She saw Laurence grit his teeth.
“Fine. Let’s get on with it,” he snapped.
“I will be with the Duke and Duchess of Richmond,” Edith said before walking away.
She could feel Laurence watching her go, but she felt no need to turn back.
Ava caught her eye and smiled. “There you are, Edith.”
“Indeed. Good evening to you both,” Edith greeted warmly.
“I say, Edith, I need to introduce you to this young man,” Christian said, gesturing to the man with whom they were conversing.
The man’s green eyes landed on her, and he smiled warmly. “It’s an honor to see you again, Your Grace,” he offered.
Edith’s eyes widened in recognition. “Lord Dunwich?”
“It would appear you two are already acquainted,” Ava said with thinly veiled curiosity.
“Yes, Her Grace and I met at a charity ball a few months ago,” Lord Dunwich explained.
“The charitable causes I’ve supported have largely been his undertakings.” Edith beamed. “It’s so wonderful to see you again. How goes the building of the orphanage?”
