"Why?"
"Because if you avoid society, they will invent reasons."
"They already invent reasons."
"Then give them fewer."
Nathaniel looked at her. "Come with me."
She blinked. "To London?"
"Yes."
"As your duchess?"
"You are my duchess."
"You said that very confidently."
"I am trying to improve."
She smiled. "I'll come."
The London house was smaller than Blackwood Hall, but still large enough to make Evelyn uncomfortable. She stood in the entrance hall, looking around.
"You have another house?"
"Yes."
"How many houses do you need?"
"Apparently more than you think."
"Why?"
Nathaniel considered. "I never asked."
"That may be your greatest financial problem."
Their first evening in London was a disaster. Lady Eleanor had arranged a dinner. The guests were polite—too polite. Evelyn recognized the difference immediately: they were studying her.
A woman named Lady Rosamond approached. "I understand you come from Belford."
"Yes."
"How charming." Evelyn smiled. "Thank you."
"Do you miss village life?"
"Sometimes."
"I imagine London must feel overwhelming."
"Not really."
Lady Rosamond looked surprised. Evelyn added, "The people are the same. They simply wear more expensive clothes."
Nathaniel nearly choked on his wine. Lady Rosamond smiled tightly. "I see."
Later, in the carriage home, he said, "You enjoyed that very much."
"You insulted three people."
"I did."
"You called Lord Havisham a peacock."
"He was dressed like one."
"You told Lady Rosamond that her smile looked painful."
"It did."
Nathaniel laughed. "You are dangerous in London."
"You invited me."
"I remember."
"You are regretting it?"
"Not remotely."
That night, they attended a ball. Evelyn hated dancing in crowded rooms. Nathaniel noticed.
"Would you like to leave?"
"No."
"Then why are you standing there looking miserable?"
"I am not miserable."
"You are gripping your fan like a weapon."
She looked down. "I hadn't noticed."
He held out his hand. "Dance with me."