“I’ll help you get to your bed. Where’s your maid?”
“Poor dear, she’s barely left my side. I gave her an hour to herself. She’ll be here soon.”
“Well, let’s move you.” Catherine helped her grandmother stand and then supported her as they took the slow steps to her bed.
“Ah.” Lady Greatheart exhaled softly as she lay into her pillow. “I wish I wasn’t so tired all the bloody time.”
Catherine bit her lip with amusement at her grandmother’s vulgar word and tucked her into the bedcovers. “Sleep. I’ll be back in the morning.”
“I love you, and I’m so happy for you.”
Catherine cupped her grandmother’s cheek and kissed it. “I love you more.”
Catherine tiptoed from the room, and as she opened the door, she startled, noticing Mrs. Burke walking down the hall at a hurried pace.
“Good evening!” Catherine called, curious why her chaperone was so close to Lady Greatheart’s room.
“Good evening,” Mrs. Burke answered with a quick curtsy, then continued on her way and disappeared down the stairs.
Frowning, Catherine watched her retreat. Her stomach rumbled slightly, reminding her of the time, and she headed to her rooms. It had been a lovely, busy, and glorious day. She wanted to bask in her own private thoughts and joy.
As she arrived at her room, she bid her maid help her change into a more comfortable day dress and ordered her dinner brought up. Tomorrow was another busy day; she’d be meeting with Bircham regarding his investment idea and then would host the Duchess of Wesley and Quin to plan her wedding.
The rest of the evening, her smile never left her face.
And as she finally fell into a dream-filled sleep, that same glow of happiness echoed the soul-deep joy that she’d found.
And it was enough.
It was more.
It was everything.
And it lingered through her morning ministrations and through breakfast. Even the presence of Mrs. Burke in the parlor as Catherine awaited the arrival of Lord Bircham couldn’t dampen her joy. The silent sentinel had actually smiled at her over her needlepoint.
It was truly a day when miracles could happen, Catherine thought. The maid brought in a tea service, and Catherine poured for herself, then offered tea to Mrs. Burke.
“No, thank you,” the woman replied, her lips twitching.
It was curious, seeing her joyful twice in one morning. Catherine turned to her own teacup and wondered just what had happened in the past day to lift Mrs. Burke’s spirits so much.
Brooks entered the parlor then, bowing and announcing the arrival of Lord Bircham.
Catherine nodded her welcome. “Tea?” she offered, watching as the gentleman strode in, silver-tipped cane in hand.
“Good afternoon, yes. I thank you.” He set his cane to the side of the sofa and took a seat, giving an acknowledging nod to Mrs. Burke.
Catherine poured Lord Bircham a cup of tea and then took her seat again, picking up her own teacup once more. “I had the opportunity to review the investment you suggested.”
She watched his reaction as she spoke the words. He took a sip of his tea, then nodded to her, waiting. “And?”
Catherine set her cup in its saucer and regarded her cousin. “It seems a viable option.” Then she added, “Thank you for suggesting it.”
Lord Bircham opened his mouth, paused, then continued, “I’m pleased you approve.”
“How did you hear of it?”
Lord Bircham set his cup aside as well, then leaned forward slightly. “I have a friend from Eton who started the company. I’ve been investing in it for years, and it’s given me a great return. I wanted to invite you to have the same benefit.”