“Then I suggest we search through this bookshelf with all due haste.”
Elizabeth shook off the pain she felt, opened her eyes, and found him still staring down at her. “I shall keep searching on this side.”
“And I will take this side,” he said, pointing to the far wall.
Will walked over to the shelf and removed another book. “Why didn’t you tell me about Parliament?”
Elizabeth looked over at him, confused by his question. “What do you mean?”
“You never told me that as a duke I had the right to sit in the House of Lords.”
“It never really crossed my mind. Besides, you were so intent on leaving England I didn’t think you would have an interest.”
“I find the political process fascinating. Even in England.” He replaced the book and reached for the next one.
“Have you decided to stay?” she whispered.
“Is there a pressing reason I should?”
“I am not sure.” The words popped out of her mouth before she realized what she’d said. She should have just told him that she was certain there was no baby. But she could not. At least if he didn’t know then he might stay long enough to understand what a wonderful country England truly was.
“I see,” he finally answered.
She glanced over and saw the frustration on his face. All she wanted to do was change the subject as quickly as she could. “I believe Lucy and Ellie are ready for their bow, don’t you?”
“As you have been the one working with them, I defer to you on that.”
Hearing his stiff tone, she went silent, hoping the floor would swallow her. She wanted him to stay so much it hurt. She knew she should tell him the truth. Once he learned she wasn’t with child, he would be free to leave.
For the next few days, Elizabeth and Will scoured the study and the children’s rooms. The only room left was Will’s bedroom, but that would have to wait until after the ball. Elizabeth knocked on the door to Lucy and Ellie’s room, eager to see if they were ready for their presentation at court.
“Come in,” Ellie said.
Elizabeth opened the door and put her hand over her mouth.
“Oh, no!” Lucy exclaimed. “Please don’t tell me we look dreadful.”
“No,” Elizabeth replied. “You both look beautiful.”
“Are you certain, Elizabeth?” Ellie’s blue eyes shimmered with fearful tears. “These dresses are so old-fashioned.”
“It is what the queen prefers. You both will be wonderful.” Elizabeth clasped Ellie’s hands.
“I am terrified,” Ellie admitted.
“You will do fine.” Elizabeth turned and looked at Lucy. The younger woman seemed far more confident than her older sister. “Are you all right, Lucy?”
“Yes. I am quite excited to get this over with, though. I want to dance at the ball with a handsome man.”
“Very well, then.” Elizabeth moved toward the door. “It is time to meet the queen.”
“Oh, God, I think I’m going to be sick,” Ellie whispered.
“No, you will not,” Lucy retorted. “You are not going to ruin this.”
“Ladies, drape your trains over your left arm like this.” Elizabeth showed them with her own gown.
“Elizabeth, these hoops are horrendous. How do you sit in them?” Lucy whined.