Chapter Nineteen

Finally, Bronwyn's true nature had reappeared. Confirmation his efforts each night were not futile and offered more than pure carnal pleasure.

The dimple that typically wielded no power over his wife's constitution appeared with his grin, and the frown that had marred her pretty features was replaced with a smile.

"You were magnificent!" Landon wrapped Bronwyn up in a hug and kissed the top of her head.

He wanted to twirl her about and celebrate. He couldn't wait to introduce her to everyone at dinner. "Theo and Mary may still be at tea. Did you want to join them and become acquainted with the other ladies before I announce our union at dinner?"

The gentle curve of Bronwyn's lips thinned into a line. "I'd prefer to take this opportunity to discuss a few issues which have plagued me since our arrival here."

With her days centered upon the ridiculous etiquette lessons, Landon hadn't even considered she may have other concerns. "What matters have you worried?"

Bronwyn moved to occupy Archbroke's worn leather chair behind the desk. She motioned for him to sit across from her on the other side of the table. Bronwyn's relaxed, calm demeanor portended trouble. The muscles in the back of his neck and shoulders tensed.

The minx leaned forward, distracting him. Lacing her fingers, she rested her hands in front of her on the desk and met Landon's gaze. "All of the Network elders, except Waterford, declined Lord Archbroke's invitation to attend the gathering."

"They are following your dad's example and standing in solidarity behind his decision not to attend."

"Does it not concern you that a PORF's request was not immediately seen to?"

"The act of defiance in this instance is understandable."

"How so? Those very elders taught me, it is of the utmost importance to obey and assist all PORFs no matter our own personal beliefs, for we were not always privy to all the facts."

"Your dad's demand that you receive the mark as soon as possible is out of genuine concern for you. I cannot blame the man for his actions, for if you were my daughter, I too would have declined Archbroke's invitation."

"Reasonable or not, his act of defiance is not acceptable. I will not let him, nor the other elders, undermine your leadership nor the requests of the other PORFs. I'd like to send correspondence to my dad reminding him of his oath and pledge to honor all PORF requests and inform him we expect him and the other elders to be present by week's end."

Landon steepled his fingers under his chin. He wanted to consider the matter before agreeing but also wanted to foster Bronwyn's surge in confidence. "I'll make sure your letter is delivered."

His wife's features lit up. Landon regretted having to add, "However, you should be aware that the House of Lords is set to reconvene by week's end, and if it pleases you, we too will be departing in three days."

"Oh, is there an important matter to be voted upon?"

"Nay. A trial of a peer is to be held. With the influx of new life peers granted by the Crown, many believe it important that those of us who hold hereditary titles participate and be present more often in the House of Lords."

"Very well. I shall simply modify my note to inform my dad to be prepared to dine with us upon our return."

His wife was terrific—fluid, able to make quick rational decisions.

Landon stood.

Bronwyn fluttered her eyelids and said, "Husband, I'm not yet finished."

He let out a chuckle and resumed his seat. "Proceed."

"When we return to London, what am I to do all day?"

He hadn't the slightest idea as to how ladies occupied their time during the day. "What do Theo and Mary do to occupy their time?"

"Well, let me think." Bronwyn pursed her lips and frowned.

He wanted to haul Bronwyn across the desk and settle her in his lap. Landon stood with the intention to wrap his hands about his wife's waist. Her stony expression halted his movements. She was going to be a formidable leader in her own right. He chose well.

The crease between her eyebrows deepened as she said, "Hmm…Mary made mention of calling upon friends, attending and holding teas, visiting Emma, and sometimes performing investigations for Theo."

"There you have it. You can do the same."

"Really?" Bronwyn stood and walked to the window. "Emma is my only friend, and she is awfully busy with her shop now that her clientele has expanded to many of the ladies of the ton. Who will invite me to tea? Until I've been introduced properly, I can't hold a tea of my own. I highly doubt Theo will trust me to assist with her investigations."

Landon took the opportunity to get close. He sidled up to her. "I will make the proper introductions this evening at dinner. Our salver will be overflowing with invitations before you know it. It's a good thing you have a keen mind for names and faces. As for Theo, I'm certain she trusts you, but since you outrank her, it should be Theo who would run errands for you."

She released a deep sigh. "You hear my plight and offer answers, but you are not listening to me."

What did she mean he wasn't listening?

The dinner bell chimed in the hallway.

Bronwyn's spine stiffened.

He turned her by the shoulders to face him. "I don't understand, but I want to. Will you explain later tonight?"

She searched his eyes, for what he wasn't sure, but then she smiled and her shoulders relaxed.

With a twinkle in her eye, Bronwyn answered, "Aye. I'll attempt to provide clarity as you do each eve."