A Duke in Time (The Widow Rules #1) - Janna MacGregor Page 0,109
a man of the highest caliber with a generous spirit.” Beth looked at Constance, then turned back to Christian. “She’s been incredibly kind and has welcomed both of us into her home as if we were family.”
“We are family,” Kat corrected.
“I’m thinking of perhaps a man who will love her and care for her as deeply as she cares for all the others in her life,” Constance offered, then smiled at Kat. “I want her to have someone who sees how truly special she is. She deserves love and so much more.”
“That’s perfect,” Beth whispered.
Kat wiped her eyes at the kindness and love expressed on her behalf. “I can’t believe you’ve thought about that for me.”
Christian’s gaze met Kat’s. The warmth of his smile echoed in his voice. “I believe it, and I’m in agreement with you. I might have a man in mind, but I don’t know how perfect he is. However, I can recommend him as he loves her madly.”
In that moment, she fell in love with him all over again.
“Do tell us.” Beth laughed.
Christian pressed a kiss on Kat’s hand. “Will I do?”
Everything within her tingled. She had little doubt he’d always affect her that way. She turned to her friends. “It’s true. We’re to marry.”
Constance clapped her hands as a shout of joy erupted.
“I knew it!” Beth exclaimed.
Kat’s heart swelled at the scene. This was her new family, where hugs and congratulations were freely given. Now she knew what it was like to have sisters.
And a future husband who truly loved her.
Chapter Twenty-Three
Christian’s dream of launching his charity to potential benefactors would culminate tonight in a successful rout that the ton would be discussing for months on end. Kat was honored to be a part of it. Not only that, but she would celebrate beside him when their betrothal was announced.
She caressed the ensemble that Christian had purchased for her to wear this evening. The white silk gown was covered with a lace overlay decorated with small crystals and seed pearls. The bodice neckline was trimmed in crimson ribbon, reminding her of the Portland rose he loved to grow. The shoes matched the deep red trim with crystals sewn in the pattern of the rose on the front. Even the intimate apparel, the stays, chemise, and stockings, were embroidered with tiny dark red roses.
Ever thoughtful, Christian had sent Willa an exquisite gown in a shade of orange that reminded Kat of autumn leaves. Willa had looked ravishing in it with her red hair. Excited for the event, she’d even mentioned she planned to dance with Morgan tonight.
For the first time in her life, Kat felt like Cinderella finding her true prince.
The previous two weeks, whenever they’d been together setting up the displays for tonight’s event at Rand House, Christian had found a way to sneak them away for a few stolen moments. Sometimes it was for kisses, other times more intimate expressions of love.
He’d been so sweet and passionate in his lovemaking yesterday. The memories were like gentle caresses, each touching an intimate part of her. Immediately, she thought of his hands holding her, stroking her skin, and sweeping across her face. Heat crept across her cheeks as she recalled the tender whispers of love he’d shared with her yesterday.
“Kat?” Willa popped her head around the door. “Mr. Hanes is downstairs and asked to see you. He says it’s an urgent matter.”
She laid the dress carefully across her bed. “Did he say what he wanted?”
“No. He dinnae look happy, lass,” Willa answered.
Her earlier happiness evaporated. “Come with me?” Katherine took her hand and squeezed.
In answer, the woman squeezed Kat’s. “Lead the way.”
Holding hands, they walked down the stairway together. No matter the circumstances, Katherine could always rely on Willa. She’d been Katherine’s confidant, friend, and most important of all, her family. In seconds, they arrived in the front sitting room closest to the stairs.
Katherine turned to Willa with a tentative smile. “I can’t imagine why he would want to see me today of all days. The soiree is in hours.”
“Perhaps it has something to do with your engagement to the duke. You know how those solicitors are. They take delight in making matters complicated.”
Kat nodded distractedly. “What if it’s bad news?”
“If it is, we’ll find a way to deal with it.” Willa squeezed her hand again. “That’s what we do.”
“We persist. That’s how we survive.” Katherine leaned over and kissed her cheek.
“Don’t be thinking negative thoughts, my miss. Tonight is your night to shine next to