She had never heard of a tower castle in England. “I thought all the tower castles were on the border with Scotland?”
“I think it might be the only one left in England. It was built as a defense for Bedford in the tenth century. But according to our records, two wings were quickly added, making the tower the hall of the castle.”
“It sounds fascinating.” Henrietta could not wait to see it. There was also an important aspect to its location. “I take it your estate is on the west side of Bedford.” Nate nodded. “My family’s home is on the east side. It is probably only a half-day’s journey.”
Just then, tea was brought in and set on the table between the sofas. Her grandmother glanced at her and inclined her head. “Henrietta, you may pour.”
“Thank you, Grandmamma.” She moved to the edge of the sofa, and poured her grandmother’s cup first. “My lady, how do you like your tea?”
“One lump and a little milk, thank you.”
She made Nate’s cup next, then hers. Henrietta had not yet swallowed the sip she took when her grandmother said, “You have had tea together before.”
She brought the serviette up to her mouth before she spewed the tea all over her gown.
Nate took her cup from her and in a bland tone said, “Lady Exeter invited me to her house for tea, and Henrietta was there.”
“Ah, yes,” Grandmamma said. “Your mother told me you were particular friends with her.”
Henrietta picked up her cup and took another sip of tea. “Five of us started last Season together. Although it was Dorie’s second Season. We have all remained close.”
“I hope that continues. I still have friendships from my first Season.” She inclined her head toward Lady Fotherby. “Catherine’s mother was one of my closest friends.”
“Yes, the duchess is my godmother.” Lady Fotherby’s eyes became a little misty. “After my mother died she was a great source of solace to me, and our friendship started to grow.” The ladies went back to their conversation.
“A lot of things make a great deal more sense now,” Nate murmured.
“What do you mean?” Henrietta kept her voice low.
“It was the duchess who approached my mother with the punishment your sister had decided.”
“Interesting.” Henrietta wondered if the ladies had planned to get them together all along. “Do you think they planned our match?”
“The duchess said she wanted it.”
“No. I mean before you came to Town this Season.”
He shook his head. “I don’t see how she could have. Even I didn’t know I was coming to Town until the last minute.”
“I suppose you are right.” Henrietta finished her tea. “It is just strange how everything seemed to fall into place.”
He took both her hands in his large, warm ones. “Would it matter to you if they had planned it?”
She only had to think about it for a second. “No. No, it would not matter at all. I love you and I’m thrilled we will marry.”
“I feel the same way you do.”
And that was the best feeling in the world. That he loved her as much as she loved him.
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
It was still fairly early when Henrietta almost floated through the front door and into the hall.
Parkin bowed. “I trust you had a good evening with the duchess?”
“I had a splendid evening, Parkin.” She had not stopped smiling since her grandmother had wished Nate and her happy. “Is his lordship still up?”
“I believe he is in his study. Her ladyship has retired for the evening.”
“Thank you.” She headed down the corridor toward Merton’s study. There was no reason not to tell him what Grandmamma had done.
Henrietta reached the room and knocked. “It is Henrietta.”
“Come in.”
Merton was standing behind his desk when she entered, and he waved her to one of the two leather chairs in front of his desk. “I didn’t expect to see you this evening.” He went to a side table. “Would you like a glass of claret?”
“Yes, please.” Having something to hold would keep her from fidgeting. He had, after all, acted as her guardian since she came out. She took the goblet. “Thank you.”
He lowered himself onto the other chair. “I must assume you have something you wish to discuss.”
“I do.” She nodded. “Lord and Lady Fotherby had also been invited to dine with Grandmamma.” Henrietta waited for him to digest the information. She tried to think of a way to soften the next part but could not. As her father said, plain speaking was often the best way. “Because you did not wish to make a decision about Fotherby and myself, she decided she would give her consent to our marriage.” Merton’s mouth opened, but Henrietta held up her hand. “She has already written to my parents. I received a letter from Mama the other day. In it she told me to follow my heart. At the time I did not know that she knew.” Merton stared at another part of the room. Henrietta did not know if he could not bear to look at her, or if he was simply thinking. “Grandmamma has left the settlement agreements to you to negotiate. Fotherby gave her his solicitor’s direction, and she will send it to you tomorrow.”
At this, Merton seemed to perk up. “Indeed.” He nodded, more to himself than to Henrietta. “Indeed, I will be happy to negotiate the contract. You must, of course, be part of the discussions.”
She knew that was not how things were usually done, but she was happy to be involved. “I appreciate that.”
He took a sip of wine. “Have you set a date yet?”
“I wish to be wed before the Season begins. Fotherby has agreed.”
Merton muttered something like, “I’ll wager he does.” But she could not be certain. Leaning over his desk, he took a cut piece of foolscap and a pencil and made a note. Then he focused his considerable attention on her, and she was glad she had the glass of wine. She took a drink, careful not to make it too large. “Who is going to tell Thea?”
“I will. Marrying him is my choice. It is only fair that it be me.”
“I agree.” Merton blew out a breath. “She will not be happy.”
That was an understatement. Henrietta expected her sister to be furious. “I shall do it tomorrow.”
“I will notify you when the first draft of the settlement agreement is ready.”
“Thank you.”
He moved to his large leather chair behind the desk. “Once you’re wed I’m taking Thea back home. I’m concerned about her health.”
“That is a good idea.” Henrietta prayed there was nothing seriously wrong with either her sister or the baby. She rose. “If there is nothing more, I will probably see you at breakfast.”
“I’ll see you then.”
“Good night.”
She got to her bedchamber as quickly as she could without running. Once she had closed the door, she twirled around and fell onto her bed. She was going to be married to a gentleman she loved. And the only hurdle was her sister. Not that Dotty could stop the wedding, but she could try to make Henrietta feel guilty. It would be horrible if this caused a permanent break between the two of them, but Mama was right. Henrietta had to follow her heart. And, she thought, her head. Of all the gentlemen she’d met, Nate was the one who fit her the best.