Season's Feather

Chapter Twenty-Five

"The Bridgerton siblings can be quite weary," Williamson smiled from his place beside Miss Edwina Sharma.

Edwina sighed, "Oh. I find it is impossible for me to grow weary in the fresh country air. Why did you not join us, my lord?"

"Writing to my family," Williamson smiled, "I have not heard from them in a while."

Edwina tilted her head, "You have siblings?"

"Oh, yes. A sister and a brother. We live out in the country. The air there is as fresh as it is here. A happy outlook, indeed. You shall need it if you are to spend much more time with the Bridgerton's, I find."

Edwina nodded her head. She looked around the room before refocusing on Williamson, "Do you imagine you should like to raise your family at your home estate? In the country, my lord?"

"It is likely," Williamson nodded, "My responsibilities will keep me moving quite often. It is entirely possible that there will be stretches of time where I'll be apart from my children, my wife too."

"I do look forward to supporting my husband in whatever his endeavors may be." Edwina smiled.

Williamson smiled at her faintly, "You do express yourself so agreeably, Miss Edwina. It is refreshing and rare indeed. It reminds me of my sister, Felicity."

Edwina nodded her head, "Though, to be clear, my lord, that is not to say I do not have a mind of my own. I have found that one may easily remain agreeable when one has inner resources. I myself am fortunate to have found a love of literature, but also of learning as well. It is why I am quite content in different circumstances. Fulfilled even. In all my varied interests and employments, you see." She finished with a small nod.

Williamson met her eye, "I must admit to you. The only books I have read this year are ledgers of my estates accounts. Before arriving here, you must know. And, they're all dreadfully boring."

Edwina gave a quiet laugh, turning to confine the noise. She let herself calm down before taking a breath and looking at the Lord Aevery, "It is perfect, then. You are much too busy to read and I am very much in need of someone to tell about my stories."

Williamson smiled at her, this woman would be the perfect wife. She would be a perfect lady. She would be perfect to help her sister when she made her debut next year. She would be perfect company for his brother.

"I so enjoy talking of my books," Edwina said.

Williamson raised his hand, "Go on, then."

"Have you read Ghalib?"

Williamson wanted to say he could, but he hadn't. He looked back at the miss shaking his head, "Never."

Edwina laughed slightly again before nodding her head, "Good."

Yes, he thought. He could find great company in Edwina Sharma. He had to find good company in Edwina Sharma. She was going to be his wife.

Delilah watched the conversation from a distance. She had not spoken to Williamson yet, the two's relationship still strained. But, she could see the slight dimness in his eyes. She was firm in her thoughts, Delilah believed he should marry Kate.

She scoffed quietly and walked off.