The Honorable Choice (Victorian Love Book 2) by M.A. Nichols

Author:M.A. Nichols [Nichols, M.A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-08-24T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 15

The Goodlands had spared no expense for the dinner party. The table was arrayed with a sumptuous feast, filled to the point where the wood groaned. Candles lit every corner of the room and blazed above them, and what wasn’t filled with food or flames was adorned with flowers; the Goodlands must have bought out every florist in Greater Edgerton.

Yet Conrad struggled to enjoy the meal or company.

Though the Goodlands had not spoken a word as to the reason behind the dinner party, no one in attendance was in any doubt that a grand announcement was forthcoming.

Seated at opposite ends of the table, Vincent and Miss Goodland spent more time gazing at each other than eating or conversing with their companions. Conrad’s eyes darted between his older brother and the lady, each seated in the place of honor with their families gathered around. No, there was no mistaking the purpose of this dinner.

Poking at his food, Conrad relaxed his expression, attempting a casual air, but he struggled to understand his own heart in the matter. There was no twist of jealousy. No bitterness. None of those spiteful, horrid emotions that begrudged the joy of others. Conrad had married Ruby for this very reason. Vincent adored Miss Goodland as much as any man can love a woman, and Conrad couldn’t have stood by and allowed the sweethearts to be parted when he had the power to give them this happy future.

No, Conrad did not fault his brother’s good fortune, but watching the pair’s joy filling the room brought an ache to his chest and a heaviness to his heart.

Glancing at his wife, Conrad watched Ruby chatting with Miss Goodland’s brother. That pinched, displeased quality to her expression had eased over the weeks, but there was still something so cold and distant to her demeanor. He tried to picture her playing the lovesick bride, gazing at him with longing eyes as Miss Goodland looked upon Vincent, and found the image ridiculous.

“Good evening, our dear families,” said Mr. Goodland, standing at the head of the table and drawing all eyes to him. “It is such a blessing to have us all together tonight…”

Mr. Goodland paused a moment and gave Vincent a hearty smile of approval. “I have had the pleasure of becoming better acquainted with Mr. Vincent Ashbrook, and the more I come to know him, the more I admire him. And it is my profound pleasure to announce that my dear Cleo…”

Yet another pause and Mr. Goodland made a valiant attempt to retain his composure, but there was no hiding the pleasure he felt as he gazed upon his eldest daughter seated beside him. “…has consented to become his wife.”

Though it was no surprise to the guests, each sounded their excitement for the news as Vincent came round the table to join Miss Goodland at the head; she threaded her arm through his and Vincent placed a hand atop hers as the pair beamed at the party.

Taking his glass in hand, Mr.

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