A Duke in Time (The Widow Rules #1) - Janna MacGregor Page 0,85
grunted noncommittedly as he glanced back at the bookkeeping. “What kind of business?”
“A workshop that will refinish various antiques such as lap desks and small side tables to match my linens.” She felt a swell of pride at everything she and Christian had accomplished in the last week. “The duke is passionate about the idea and helping his men. With his commitment, I have no doubt it will be a success. I’m honored to be working with him.”
Not only honored, but delighted. Thoughts of Christian and his regard for his men made her feel as if she were a part of something bigger. Something that helped her as much as it helped Christian’s men. It was the first time in her life after the “incident” that she could recall helping others without having to worry about her secrets. Honestly, it was the first time Katherine felt she could do anything she wanted without the world falling apart around her.
And she had Christian to thank for getting her involved.
“I’m sure it will be a success, but it’s also troublesome.” Mr. Sherman glanced down at the paper again. “Will you have enough time to fulfil the Prince Regent’s contract if you work for the Duke of Randford also?”
“Yes.” She nodded decisively. “The business plans I showed you at the workshop are ready to be implemented. My friend, Miss Howell, is more than qualified to run the workshop while I handle the hiring and training of extra seamstresses and the everyday business in the boutique. My work for the duke will be coming to an end soon. But I’ll still help his shop by offering the items for sale in my emporium.”
“Lap desks and tables,” Mr. Sherman murmured, and he jotted down several notes. “The Prince Regent loves small unique pieces.” He stood, and then for the first time in their hours together, Mr. Sherman smiled, one of satisfaction. “I appreciate your time today, Lady Meriwether.”
“You are most welcome. Thank you for considering me.” The kindness in his voice gave her hope that the interview had gone well. “If you have any further questions, please send them to me and I’ll answer immediately.”
He put away his pencil and paper for the last time before placing his hat on his head. “I have all the information I need. I’ll present my findings to the First Lady of the Bedchamber. A decision should be made by the Prince Regent within the next ten days or so. Good day.”
After he exited the shop, Kat strolled to the bay windows that faced the London street, where a startling blue afternoon sky commanded her attention. The visit had gone as well as could be expected. She rested against the window jamb.
The worry she thought she’d experience after Mr. Sherman left was nonexistent. She had done her best and, whatever happened, it was out of her hands. Now, all she could think about was seeing Christian again and telling him everything.
Amazing how the passage of a few short weeks and a particular duke could change her entire world.
* * *
Now that Constance was confined to her room for rest, Katherine and Beth spent every evening there before bedtime. Katherine always made it her last stop before retiring. But sometimes work called her back to her study after their evening chat. Beth and Aunt Vee had started taking turns sleeping in a cot in Constance’s room so they could be of assistance if needed.
It was remarkable how Constance kept a cheery attitude through all of this. If it had been Katherine, she would have been beside herself. She was certain she’d have suffered from boredom after the first day, but Constance took it all in stride. She kept herself entertained by reading the latest gothic novels, fashion plates, and gossip rags, all of which lay in a haphazard manner across the bedside table.
Katherine made her way to Constance’s room. Aunt Vee sat happily by the fire, knitting away while Beth sat in a chair next to Constance’s bedside. Papers were spread all around the counterpane, one of the first projects that Kat had ever completed.
“May I join you?” Katherine called out softly.
“Oh, you’re here,” Constance exclaimed. “I was about to send Beth to drag you out of your study. All work and no play makes Katherine a dull girl.”
Beth laughed at the silly poem. “Makes Jack a dull boy,” she corrected.
“But it makes me a happy woman,” Katherine added as she sat next to Beth.