“There is no need to apologize, and I am very well aware of the fact that you are always trying your best. I would like to see at least one of the ladies of thetonmove to America and make the transition. They may get the shock of their lives when they realize just how difficult things can be.”
A feeling of warmth spread across her chest as she stared at the man she had married.
He is so kind.
She leaned into his hand, pressing her cheek against his palm. “Thank you, Julian, for being so understanding. I am lucky to have found someone who makes my transition so much easier.” She meant every word as her heart suddenly began to beat a little faster.
Softening his smile again, Julian removed his hand and sat back. “I never want you to be anything other than exactly who you are, Lily. Please do not think that I ever expect anything more. You are perfect just the way you are, accent and all.” The corner of his mouth lifted into a teasing smile, and Lily found herself laughing.
“Thank you, my lord, it is truly a wonder to me that you accept it.”
Chapter 19
The ledgers on the study desk were all in disarray as Julian attempted to place them in order. The previous night had not gone exactly as planned with the error at the dinner party, but Julian was relieved that Lily seemed to have recovered from the incident and was now helping his mother and sisters to pack.
A trip to one of the empty cottages on the estate had seemed like a good idea after the dinner. It would give them all some time to rest as well as get used to the idea of living in the country.
There had been a moment between him and Lily in the carriage when he had wanted to kiss her again, but he had quickly reminded himself that their marriage was one of convenience.
She would not have wanted it.
A small pang of regret clutched at his chest as he lifted one of the ledgers. He wanted to kiss her very much whenever they were alone, but it would not bring anything good to their marriage. Yet it had not boded well for him in the past when he had allowed his heart to open to another.
Maids and footmen hurried in and out, carrying the already packed crates from the room.
“Shall I bring another crate, my lord?” One of the young footmen with sandy blonde hair and light brown eyes approached the desk.
Looking up, Julian blinked a few times as he left his thoughts. “Yes, of course, but I think this will be the last. I am not certain how long we shall be staying in the country. I think these ledgers should suffice.” He placed the one he had been holding on top of the file and dusted his hands together.
He cleared his throat and stepped aside, allowing the young man to take over the task as he headed from the study. He was looking forward to the stay in Hertfordshire. He had just stepped into the hallway when the housekeeper suddenly came hurrying toward him.
“I beg your pardon, my lord, I do not mean to interrupt, but the Duke and Duchess of Archibald are here to call on you and Lady Barnard.” She curtsied quickly, clasping her hands in front of her.
Good heavens.
His heart suddenly leaped into his throat as he recalled the incident. The duke was a very stern man who liked things his way; it would not bode well for either of them if he were there to express his displeasure.
“Very well, I shall go and see them at once. Please inform Lady Barnard of their arrival.” He dismissed the woman with a nod before walking past her.
“Lord, help us all if the man is displeased,” he grumbled to himself, making his way to the parlor where guests were received.
The duke and duchess greeted him with a smile as he entered the room.
“Your Graces, I hope I have not kept you waiting?” He discreetly swallowed hard and composed himself as he bowed to them both.
It was the duchess who spoke first with a kind smile as she stood. “I hope your mother is well?” She raised an eyebrow with a strange glint in her eyes.
Panicking for a second, Julian felt his throat go dry. “She is, thank you, Your Grace. It turns out that it was just an onset of nerves. She is resting now. I hope you do not mind if she does not come down?”
Please, do not let her come down.
His palms began to sweat as he placed his hands behind his back and rubbed his fingers in his palms.
“Of course not, but I am glad she is feeling better. Your wife and mother are lucky to have such a kind, thoughtful, and caring viscount to look after them.” Her smile became mischievous as she emphasized each word.
The duke simply grunted, utterly unimpressed by the conversation that had nothing at all to do with the parliament or the war.
Just then, Lily entered and curtsied, looking more nervous than Julian had felt. “Good day, Your Graces, I apologize for taking too long as we are preparing to leave for Hertfordshire.”