Page 47 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

Hawthorne drew in a slow breath. “I believe this conversation has reached its conclusion. If you will see yourself out—”

He gestured toward the door as the butler entered.

But just behind him—

An unexpected figure appeared.

Edwin’s heart slammed against his ribs.

Eliza.

Her gaze locked on to her father, her eyes cold, her hands clenched tightly at her sides. “You wished for an audience,” she said evenly. “You have had one. You were simply unaware that I was present.” She stepped forward slightly. “I heard every word. And I understand your position.” Her voice sharpened. “But I can assure you that any alliance I make—any family I join—will not improve your standing. Not socially. Not financially.”

Carver rose slowly, turning to face her. “I must say,” he remarked, studying her. “You look remarkably like your mother. I have only glimpsed you from across a ballroom before—it is … enlightening to see you properly.”

Edwin caught the faint hesitation in his tone, as though he were attempting to soften something inherently insincere.

Edwin moved without thinking, stepping around the sofa to stand beside Eliza. He would not have her face this man alone.

Across the room, Hawthorne’s gaze followed the movement, and Henley shifted to stand just behind him, forming a united front.

Edwin’s hands flexed at his sides.

He had the sudden, overwhelming urge to draw her back—out of reach, out of sight—shield her entirely.

He resisted.

Barely.

What madness was this—that a man who prided himself on control should find himself so close to abandoning it entirely?

Carver regarded Eliza with narrowed eyes. “I assume Langshire is unaware of our … connection,” he said after a pause. “I would be most interested to see how he might respond, should he learn of it.”

Edwin resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the thinly veiled threat.

“He knows,” Eliza said flatly.

She took a step forward.

Edwin turned toward her, startled.

That she would reveal such a thing—after such careful calculation—

A memory surfaced: her anger, her frustration, her confusion at Langshire’s hesitation.

Was this the reason?

Was this what held Langshire back?

Questions rose, rapid and relentless—but Edwin forced them aside.

There would be time for answers later.

For now—

He watched.

Carver’s eyes narrowed further. “It seems I have underestimated you.”