A Duke in Time (The Widow Rules #1) - Janna MacGregor Page 0,42
rest of his response melted into silence. He rocked back on his heels. It had to be her imagination, but a slight flush colored his cheeks. “You were married to my half brother. You’re still grieving. I shouldn’t have been so forward. I’m no better than Abbott.” He took a deep breath and released it. “But I thought…” He studied the ground again. “I thought we might…”
Where was the man who just delivered a blistering lecture to the guests at Helen’s dinner party? For the love of heaven, say it and put me out of my misery.
After a few moments when he didn’t complete the thought, she did the honors for him. “That we might have found something in common? Perhaps share something together that we’d both enjoy?”
“Yes.” A slight grin broke across his lips. “An eloquent way of putting it.”
“Would you like to hear my answer now?”
“Now seems the most perfect imperfect time,” he said softly.
“How’s this for eloquent?” she teased with a jaunty smile. “Yes.”
“Really?” The sudden joy on his face was infectious.
“I’ll be more than happy to help you. I’ve come up with a few ideas.” In for a penny, in for a pound. “Perhaps you could start a furniture refurnishing business? The men could start out with small pieces.”
“For instance?” His brow furrowed.
“Lap desks, writing desks, and smaller pieces that would easily fit as accents within the boudoir or sitting room of a lady.” Before he could say no, she continued. “Ladies in my shop are always interested in such things.”
An arch of his perfect brow was his response.
It was an excellent idea. She simply had to convince him. “Your charity could sell them at my linen store until demand increases. Once the business is viable, you’ll need your own shop.”
He remained silent, which wasn’t at all how she thought he’d react.
“It’s perfect, Your Grace,” she declared. “You use repurposed artwork. Most of the pieces I have in storage are gorgeous and unique. They merely need a little care and love from your men who would do the work.”
“You have an inventory?” he asked.
“I have a room full of them. I pick up various pieces when I visit the market every week. I know what my customers need to complete their perfect bedrooms.” She wasn’t being boastful, but she talked with her customers about their ideas and what they enjoyed in life. The highest echelon of the ton admired her shop while they ordered her goods. Each woman hoped to recreate in their own home what Katherine had built and designed—an escape from the stark reality of life.
Anything that fulfilled their visions and desires for their private chambers was in Katherine’s best interests as well. “Some are antiques from abroad. One of a kind.”
“Why haven’t you started this business yourself?”
“I haven’t had time. If I receive the linen contract, I definitely can’t do it. All my effort will be on that.”
The lines across his face loosened as his eyes widened. A grin tugged at his lips. “It has potential.”
“It’s brilliant,” she argued. “I have an appointment for us to see a warehouse. I think it would make an excellent workshop for your men. But don’t think I’m pushing you. If you don’t want it, I do. I’ll need the extra space if I receive the royal appointment.”
“What type of commission would you be seeking?” His gaze never left hers.
“None. Your payment of four hundred pounds is more than enough. If I’m correct about the demand, your men will be opening a shop close to mine in no time. We can help each other by referring customers to one another. A satisfied customer brings in more customers.”
He took a deep breath and released it. He stared at the full moon for a full minute before leveling his gaze her way. “I like the idea. I insist on paying for the inventory.”
“It’s my contribution to the cause. Willa will be delighted to have the house free of the clutter.”
“And you’ll make time to help me?” he asked with a hint of wariness in his tone. “While you’re trying to win the contract?”
She nodded. “Beth wants to help me prepare for when the Secretary to the First Lady of the Bedchamber comes to evaluate my linens. That allows me to help you.”
He held his arm for her to take. “Then let’s not dally. I need to get you home so you’ll be ready for tomorrow. I can’t wait to hear what other brilliant ideas you come up with after