“But you’re not a milkmaid, but the beautiful and talented daughter of the Earl of Devon.”
“I’m afraid you’re the only one who has ever seen me that way. I dread going back to London and facing theton’sgossipmongers once more. I detest it there.”
“Kathryn, listen to me. You’re a strong and beautiful woman. Don’t let those petty women tear into your confidence. Show them your backbone and hold your head high.”
“Oh, Sam. If only I shared your confidence in my abilities.”
Sam leaned toward her and wiped the tears from her face before gently kissing her lips. “I know you can do it, my love.”
Kathryn knew what she had to do. She would use her newfound confidence to tell her parents that she loved Mr. Clifford and wanted to marry him. “I’m going to ask my father for permission to marry.”
Sam got down on one knee and held her hand. “My darling Kathryn, I know your father will disapprove of me, but I want you to know that I love you with all my heart and would be thehappiest man in all of England if you would consent to be my wife.”
“Ahem,” came a voice from the doorway, startling them both.
Sam jumped up, and Kathryn looked over her shoulder, momentarily panicking when she saw her brother standing in the doorway. Had he heard their confession of love and Sam’s proposal? Would he tell Papa before she had a chance to plead her case?
“Easton, I…”
“Dear sister, I didn’t intend to eavesdrop on your private conversation.”
“Please don’t tell Papa. I need to convince him to let me marry Mr. Clifford. He loves me, Easton, and I love him. No man has ever looked at me the way he does. He makes me feel beautiful and cherished.”
“I can certainly see that, and I’m not here to ruin your chance at happiness. I will help you plead your case with Father.”
“You will? Mr. Clifford is the second son of a baronet, not a servant. He’s his brother’s heir until his brother marries and has a son of his own.”
“I see. That makes the situation a little better, but not by much.”
“I understand if you don’t want to speak on our behalf.”
“Sister, please know I also love you and want you to be happy. I will speak with Father.”
Kathryn stood up and threw her arms around Easton’s neck, hugging him. “Thank you. You’re the best brother a girl could ever wish for.”
Mr. Clifford held out his hand. “I’m Sam Clifford, my lord.”
“Pleased to meet you, Mr. Clifford,” Easton said, shaking his hand. “I approve of any man who can put the light back in my sister’s eyes. I knew she’d find someone someday who’d see her true worth.”
“Your sister is an amazing woman, my lord. I’ll extend my thanks as well for any help you can offer in this situation.”
“Don’t thank me yet. I only said I would try. Our father can be quite stubborn about appearances and proper alliances.”
“I know, and that’s what worries me,” Kathryn said. “Oh, Easton, what if he refuses to allow us to marry?”
“Let’s worry about that when the time comes. They’ll arrive tomorrow, so we must think of a good strategy to make him bow to your love.”
“I’ll take my leave so you may converse with your brother. Until later, my love,” Sam said.
Kathryn turned to Sam. “I’ll see you soon.”
Sam nodded and left the garden while Easton led Kathryn into the drawing room.
“You must be parched,” Kathryn said. “The family will return shortly, and luncheon will be served soon. Shall I order you some tea to tide you over until then?”
“That would be most welcome.”
Kathryn went over and pulled the bellpull, and Betsy appeared within minutes.