Page 83 of The Duke's Unclaimed Bride
“As long as Her Grace is happy,” Laurence replied.
James’s smile softened. “My, my, you really have changed,” he said softly. “In the most extraordinary way.”
Laurence grinned and walked with his friend toward another group of lords.
He didn’t want to admit it, but he was rather enjoying himself. Not only was he speaking to people, but he was also being helpful to Edith. He would glance at her on occasion, a proud smile on his lips as she gracefully collected donations and spoke to the nobility.
Surely, tonight would be an enormous success for her and her charities.
“Your Grace,” Lord Hargrove’s voice cut through the merriment.
Laurence winced and slowly turned toward him. “Lord Hargrove. I wasn’t aware that you were on tonight’s guest list,” he said coolly.
Lord Hargrove smirked, clearly having a plan in mind.
CHAPTER 16
The sun was setting as Laurence and Lord Hargrove faced each other. Around them, the dining room buzzed with activity. Only James seemed to be aware of the incoming storm.
“Oh, how could I ever miss an event like this?” Hargrove chuckled. “I say, you and your wife truly have a talent.”
Laurence clenched his fists at his sides. He hated that this man had wormed his way into such a happy occasion. He took a deep breath.
He couldn’t let this man ruin this for Edith.
“I am aware that my wife has many talents. Which talent would you be referring to?” Laurence asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Indeed, there are many! Decoration, event organization, and public speaking. Truly, she is much more charismatic than I gaveher credit for!” he grinned. “I seem to remember she also had a talent for dancing. She was wonderful when we last spoke; I could hardly keep my eyes off her as she danced with Lord Dunwich.”
Laurence bit his tongue, not wanting to remember the young man who’d had his arms around Edith at the last ball. Although that night had ended well for him, he still resented that man.
“Yes, my wife is rather wonderful when you give her the space and resources to be at her full capacity,” Laurence said.
“And what resources she has here!” Lord Hargrove barked out a laugh. “She really has fallen on her feet, hmm?”
“Well,” Laurence said. “Her Grace had been doing well on her own. Her charitable efforts were highly effective without my influence.”
“Indeed, but money and time certainly do help,” Lord Hargrove nodded.
“Yes, although I’d argue half the battle would be the dedication one needs to these kinds of pursuits,” Laurence replied.
“Oh, I can see the dedication,” Lord Hargrove nodded with a sneer.
“And what exactly is that meant to imply?” Laurence asked coldly.
“I can’t imagine what you mean,” Lord Hargrove shrugged. “It’s rather clear to the rest of the Ton what is happening.”
“The Ton will see whatever it wishes to see,” Laurence said.
“Ah, you always did think the worst of others,” Hargrove laughed, playing it off as a joke. Laurence didn’t return the man’s mirth.
“Forgive my pessimism, I’m sure you understand where it has come from,” he said.
“Oh! Of course! Tell me, do you really think a little foundling satisfies that pesky clause in your father’s will?” Lord Hargrove said, the edge of his lips curling up into a sneer.
James materialized at Laurence’s elbow.
“Lord Hargrove! What a surprise. I wasn’t aware you’d developed such an interest in charitable works,” James said, his smile tight.
