“Come.”
Easton walked in and stood before Fletcher’s desk. “Good day, Fletcher. I’d like a moment of your time, if I may.”
Fletcher put down the document he was reading. “Of course. Is something amiss?”
“No, not at all.”
“How may I help you?”
Easton’s insides roiled with trepidation. He began to pace before Fletcher’s desk.
“Come now, Easton. It can’t be that bad.”
He stopped pacing and faced Fletcher. “You know I hold your family in the highest regard.”
“Yes. I’m well aware of that.”
“Well, the point is—umm, I mean…”
“Bloody hell, Easton, spit it out.”
“Right, right. I would like your permission to either court or marry Miss Parker.”
Fletcher’s eyes widened. “That’s an odd request. Care to elaborate? Why must it be one or the other?”
“My actions all depend on Miss Parker. I know she’s said she’s in no hurry to marry,” Easton said.
“That’s correct. I’ve heard her say the same in the past.”
“That is why I phrased my request as an either/or option. If Miss Parker is still against marriage, I want to court and woo her, showing her that marriage can be both fun and wonderful with the right person.”
“I see.”
“If she is agreeable to my suit, I would then ask for her hand.”
“Do you love her?”
Easton nodded. “For quite some time now. I’ve tried not to pressure her in any way, but I cannot hide my feelings any longer.”
“Well, as you said, the decision will be up to my sister-in-law. I will not force her to marry anyone if she doesn’t wish it. You understand that.”
“I do.”
“Then I wish you the best of luck.”
Easton nodded and held out his hand. “Thank you, Fletcher.”
Fletcher took it in a firm handshake. “Don’t thank me yet.”
“I promise that I will treat Miss Parker with the utmost courtesy.”
“I would expect nothing less. Good day, Easton.”
“Good day.” Easton turned on his heel and left the study. He was walking down the hallway when Miss Parker came out of the drawing room.
“Lord Easton, have you finished your business?”
“I have. Miss Parker…”