Page 69 of A Devious Secret

“All the time.”

Nathaniel looked displeased. “If that is the case, I am pleased you will be residing with us for the foreseeable future.”

“I do hope that won’t be a burden on your family.”

Dinah smiled warmly at her. “You are family, and you are more than welcome here.”

“That is kind of you,” Gemma said. “I do wonder how Henry will take the news.”

“You answer to no one since you are a widow,” Dinah remarked.

Gemma reached for her teacup and held it in her hand. “Henry has been graciously taking care of me since Baldwin died.”

With a knowing look, Nathaniel commented, “It almost sounds like he had another motive for caring for you.”

“Perhaps, but I would never have agreed to be his mistress,” Gemma said firmly.

“I believe you, but it does give Lord Hawkinge a reason to threaten Stephen to stay away from you,” Nathaniel pointed out.

“Henry is not a violent man. He may be misguided, but he knows I do not belong to him,” Gemma stated.

“Does he?” Nathaniel pressed.

“Yes,” Gemma replied. “Henry has always been fond of the ladies, and it was a great source of contention between Baldwin and him.”

Dinah pushed the plate away from her, earning a displeased look from Nathaniel, and asked, “Why is that?”

“Henry was always chasing after one woman or another and he never seemed to have a desire to settle down with anyone,” Gemma explained. “Whereas Baldwin greatly enjoyed being married and grew tired of his brother’s philandering ways.”

“Sadly, Lord Hawkinge’s behavior isn’t uncommon for gentlemen of theton, and I daresay, encouraged by many,” Dinah said.

Nathaniel placed his hand over his wife’s. “There are still good men that are devoted to their wives.”

“That is only because you are afraid of Evie,” Dinah teased.

Nathaniel chuckled. “She has threatened me, multiple times, about what happens if I ever betray you.”

“Evie is very protective of me,” Dinah said.

“You need not fear, because I would die before I ever betrayed you.” Nathaniel brought Dinah’s hand up to his lips. “I love you too much.”

Dinah offered her husband a private smile. “I feel the same way.” Her face grew pale, and she snatched her hand back. “I will be right back.”

Gemma watched as Dinah ran out of the room with her hand over her mouth.

“I’m worried about Dinah,” Nathaniel said, his eyes remaining on the door that Dinah just ran through. “I think it is time I call for the doctor.”

Gemma nodded. “I agree.”

Nathaniel turned towards the footman and ordered, “Send for Doctor Branch at once.” He brought his gaze back to meet hers. “Dinah won’t be pleased with my decision, but it is for the best.”

Balfour stepped into the room and met her gaze. “A Lady Winsley has requested a moment of your time.”

Gemma blinked. Her stepmother was here, to see her? For what purpose? She had married her father years ago, and she had never called upon her once.

Nathaniel’s voice broke through her musings. “You should see what she wants.”

“Why?” Gemma asked. “I have no loyalty towards this woman.”