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William shook his head. “You didn’t see the way she looked at me.”

“I saw the way she was looking at you in the church. Like a mouse caught in a trap. You’d best learn why before she expires from sheer nerves.”

He shook his head. “Why would someone like her choose someone like me? I can hardly believe her family would agree to the match.”

“Her father is a notorious social climber. I don’t doubt he would have married her off to anyone who could offer the Crowton family more prestige. If you want my opinion-”

“Which I did not ask for.”

“She got lucky with you.”

He scoffed.“Do you have anything else to say or have you finished saying your piece?”

“I suppose, but -”

“I think it would be wise for you to stop wasting your time. The only reason I agreed to this this match was to sire an heir. There is no reason to act as though there is anything more than that going on.”

Partick stared at him, clearly wanting to say more, but he had knows William long enough to know a losing battle when he saw one.

“Fine, if you insist, I won’t push it, but make sure you spend some time with her tomorrow.”

“I’ll remember that you said that.”

“That isn’t the same as saying you are going to do it.”

William just smiled. “Have a good night, Patrick. I’ll see you when it’s time to get back to work.”

“Fine. And do try to give yourself at least a day or two to introduce yourself to your wife,” he called as he walked from the room leaving William on his own once more.

He waited until he heard his footsteps disappear down the hall before letting out a long breath.

Patrick was a good man, but he was too loyal. He couldn’t understand how Rebecca must be feeling. He never should have asked for this.

He spent a little while longer in his study, busying himself with some work before it was too late to justify anything other than going to bed. Getting to his feet, he ventured into the hall.

As he went, he ran into Mrs. Anderson.

“Good evening, your Grace,” she curtsied.

“Mrs. Anderson, I’m surprised you’re still awake.”

“I wanted to ensure everything was ready for our new resident.”

“And is it?”

“Most of it, but her lady’s maid still hasn’t arrived.”

William frowned. “That’s rather odd. I would have thought she would have arrived when her suitcase did.”

“As did I. I do hope she hasn’t run into any trouble.”

“I suppose for now we should be keeping an eye out for her. Let me know when she arrives. If she isn’t here by morning, I might reach out to Viscount Gloushire. Perhaps he might know what is taking her so long.”

“That might be for the best. It’s far too late. I should hope she isn’t still traveling now.”

“I couldn’t agree more. Did Lady Rebecca say anything about her room?”

“I left her alone outside of it. She said she didn’t want any help preparing for bed. I must say I was quite surprised.”