An Earl's Symphony of Seduction: A Steamy Historical Regency Romance Novel by Henrietta Harding

Author:Henrietta Harding [Harding, Henrietta]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-05-21T18:30:00+00:00

Chapter 24

Catherine had seriously considered not returning to Joshua’s manor after the passionate moment they shared in his study, but she simply didn’t have the heart to abandon Maggie in such a manner. It would be unfair for her to request Margaret to travel to her family’s home instead, given how much smaller it was in comparison.

Fortunately, Joshua had merely welcomed her politely and stepped into his study, while Catherine followed Maggie into the music room and Lady Haroven had tea in the garden with Aunt Harriet.

Margaret had been so determined to play the sonata they had been working on for some lessons now that Catherine didn’t even realise it had got so late until the last notes dissipated into thin air.

“Oh dear, it’s already past six. I must go tell Aunt Harriet,” she said as she noticed how low the sun was on the horizon. She couldn’t stay there any longer, becoming an imposition to her gracious hosts.

“I wish you could stay for dinner,” Margaret replied, and Catherine chuckled softly, shaking her head, but the young girl didn’t seem content with this answer. “Let us ask my brother if he minds.”

“No, Maggie, please do not …”

“Ask me what?” Joshua asked, stepping into the music room.

“Could Cathy and her aunt stay for supper? It would be so late when they get to their own homes, and they surely will be famished!”

“That sounds like a splendid idea,” Joshua said at once, and Catherine looked at him with mild reproach and embarrassment.

“Oh, but we couldn’t possibly ...” Catherine began to protest, but Joshua seemed determined not to listen any further.

“It is the least I can do to thank you for your kindness to my sister. What kind of friend would I be if I had you leave my state famished?”

Catherine giggled despite herself, and with that, the matter was settled.

Joshua summoned his butler, who promptly entered the room to receive his lord’s instructions.

“Please inform the kitchen staff that we have two additional guests for dinner.”

“Very good, My Lord.” The older man bowed before once more leaving the room.

“Shall we join my mother and Lady Buren in the drawing room? I am certain they are waiting for the lesson to finish there, as it is too late to enjoy tea in the garden any longer.”

They made their way to the drawing room, where Lady Haroven and Aunt Harriet were sharing a polite conversation. Catherine wasn’t certain she’d ever see her aunt smile as often as when the earl and the dowager countess were around.

“Ah, there you are,” Lady Haroven said warmly, her smile as welcoming as ever. Catherine was amazed by how sweet a woman of her status could be, particularly in contrast with Lady Felicity. “We were just talking about you.”

“Truly? I hope it was nothing too scandalous,” Joshua replied, smiling at his mother.

“Heavens no. Lady Buren was simply noting how splendidly you and Miss Knightley get along. I am so glad you have found a friend in such a charming young lady, just like your sister has as well.

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