Enchanting the Duke - Lana Williams Page 0,29

himself alone rather than lonely the past few years—actually, much longer if he were honest with himself. Now he had to question that belief as well.

The look of admiration in her expression should’ve been something he could easily dismiss. But her opinion of him had come to matter. He wanted to be the type of man she admired.

A woman’s opinion was the last thing his grandfather would’ve sought. However, he now realized his grandfather had been wrong not to do so. Females made up half the population, their influence was easily seen in the majority of households, and their perspectives were unique.

His grandfather had acted as if women went out of their way to be a poor influence on men and distract them from their purpose, yet that wasn’t true either. He wondered how many other things had his grandfather been wrong about. The question certainly gave him something to ponder. An unfamiliar sensation held him in its grip. It took him a long moment to recognize it—hope.

~*~

Eleanor sighed as she looped a bright red ribbon around a small piece of greenery later that afternoon. The coming evening was the last small gathering the guests would enjoy. The following night was the ball with many traveling from nearby estates as well as from London to join the celebration.

Lillian had wanted to do something to remind the guests to give even after they left the ball. The group had decided to give an ornament made of greenery as they departed with the request to make a small donation.

Eleanor suggested adding an orphan’s name on a piece of paper tied to it to make the request more personal. The ladies had spent the past two hours tying small pieces of greenery into circles and adding a bit of ribbon and beads as well as the child’s name.

Eleanor enjoyed the work as it gave her time to think. With only two nights remaining of the house party, she worried whether the closeness she and Douglas had shared would continue once they returned home. While she liked to think their relationship had improved, she was far from claiming victory. If he returned to his custom of working continually, the next few months would be lonely.

“Is all well?” Lillian asked quietly.

“Of course. I was just thinking of how quickly time has passed since our arrival.”

“Hasn’t it though? I’m sorry I didn’t join you for the outing to the village earlier, but I wanted to spend time in the nursery.”

Eleanor smiled. “I would’ve done the same. It was generous of you to host the party when you have such a beautiful baby to enjoy.” The absolute joy on Lillian’s face made Eleanor’s breath catch.

“I love him so much already.” Lillian blinked back sudden tears. “It’s rather terrifying to love someone so fiercely. Between him and Elijah, it’s a wonder I still have a heart.”

Longing washed through Eleanor, nearly taking her under with its weight. That was exactly what she wished for—a heart so full that she wondered if it could hold anything more. Would that ever come to pass?

Lillian shook her head as she smiled, glancing around as if to see whether any of the other ladies noticed. “Forgive me. I am still adjusting to motherhood.”

“Not at all. I think your reaction is wonderful.”

Lillian leaned close. “I can’t thank you enough for all your help and support these last few days. You’ve made entertaining and the activities so much easier. I appreciate it more than I can say.”

“I’m happy to help. Truly. It’s made the gathering even more fun.”

Lady Elizabeth laughed from across the room, drawing everyone’s notice.

Lillian frowned. “At least she’s keeping her distance and making an effort to be nice.”

“One must be grateful for small things,” Eleanor muttered, causing Lillian to laugh.

The pile of ornaments grew until Lillian declared they had more than enough. The ladies departed to dress for dinner, and soon they had finished another delicious meal.

When Burbridge advised the guests they intended to play snapdragon, Eleanor couldn’t help but smile in delight, only to notice Douglas didn’t share her enthusiasm.

“Don’t you like the game?” she asked as they stood in the drawing room where a table had been set up with a shallow bowl in its center.

“I’ve never played it.” He stared at the brandy-filled bowl with suspicion.

Once again, Eleanor’s heart hurt for that lonely little boy who’d missed out on so many ordinary activities. She had fond memories of snatching the brandy-soaked raisins from the flames despite gaining a few