Caught in the Storm of a Duke's - Abby Ayles Page 0,95
chimed.
Stephen smiled as he stepped in front of Lady Brewen. Judith might have taken after her aunty in character, but she had inherited her mother’s beauty. She was evidently a child of both her parents.
“My lady, now I understand where Lady Judith gets her beauty. It is an utmost pleasure to finally make acquaintance. Your daughter has spoken very highly of you,” he said as he bowed.
They must have been the right words for when he straightened, the baroness was beaming from ear to ear, apparently pleased.
“Oh, believe me, the pleasure is ours. As we have told Judith countless times, we are in your debt, Your Grace. You have no inkling how thrilled I am that you have chosen to honor us with your presence.” She glanced at Judith. “It certainly is wonderful to know that my dearest daughter has not forgotten me despite being far from home.”
They all chuckled, recognizing the teasing note in her voice.
Stephen breathed even easier as he stepped in front of Edward. Another hurdle had been crossed.
“My brother, Edward Brewen.”.
The young Mr. Brewen extended his hand for a handshake before Stephen could do anything.
Stephen was both surprised and pleased. He took Edward’s hands and shook firmly.
“You must let me buy you drinks before you leave London. It is an honor to meet you, Your Grace.”
Between his smile and his words, it was easy for Stephen to tell that they would be very good friends.
“I would very much like that. I consider the honor mine, Mr. Brewen.”
“Please, you must call me Edward. After all you did for dearest Judith, you’ve become family.”
At that point, Stephen began to feel he had worried in vain. Judith’s family were as welcoming as Aunt Tia had been. He could see that they already had a good first impression of him.
Perhaps, it would not be so difficult to get their permission to marry their Judith.
“Only if you call me Stephen.”
They shook hands again. “You have yourself a pact,” Edward said grinning.
As Stephen went to Edward’s wife, he found himself grinning as well.
Rachel Brewen was the sweetest soul he had ever met. She was lovely, awfully shy, and full of warmth.
She held out baby Nathaniel to him, and Stephen had to fight the tightening in his chest as he peered down at the little bundle of joy.
He, too, would have had a precious one like their son.
“See, he’s smiling. He must like you. He’s usually peevish around strangers.”
“Is he now? Well, I must have him know I like him just as much, even more. That is a dashing young man you have, Mrs. Brewen,” he said as he pulled away.
She smiled up at him, her perfect teeth dazzling.
“Thank you, Your Grace. Welcome to Charleveaux. We hope you enjoy your time here.”
Stephen gave it a thought, as he looked at all their faces.
“I believe I will. Thank you all for the warm welcome.”
The baroness laughed.
“Warm welcome? We are yet to begin. These were just pleasantries, Your Grace. If you would come with me, a feast awaits us.”
The baroness turned and began to go into the house, and they all followed her lead.
“I told you there was nothing to worry about,” Judith whispered in his ear.
Before he could respond, she quickened her pace, falling in step with her brother and sister-in-law, so she could moon over her nephew.
Stephen stared at them, wondering if it would be asking for too much to hope that he and Judith would someday hold their own little one in their arms.
Nevertheless, he hoped, sending a prayer to the heavens.
Chapter 36
Stephen was eager to speak with Lord Davenforth and make his intention known but it was apparent that he would have to wait for some time to do so.
He waited all afternoon, all evening, and the morning of the next day. Finally, the perfect moment came as they finished lunch.
As the Baron rose, he did too. Ever so respectfully, he said, “Lord Davenforth, if I would not be taking you away from anything, I would be grateful if I could have a word with you.”
As those words left his lips, the dining room suddenly went quiet.
Looks were exchanged, and he knew they were aware of what was about to happen. He hoped they would not think it too sudden. He needed to make Judith his wife as soon as possible.
Lord Davenforth took his time before responding. He cleared his throat, finally speaking.
“A word you say? Certainly. Come, we will speak in my study.”