Bronson. "Are you sure you don't need a chaperone to accompany you to dinner sister?"
Clara rolled her eyes. "No brother, the Duke and I are going to be fine. And besides, the servants are going to be milling about, so we won't technically be alone."
Bronson. "I understand, but what if he tries to kiss you?"
Arthur elbowed him in the ribs. "That is enough Bronson. If Clara trusts Manchester, then I do as well. He seems like a fine man."
Clara smiled at Arthur. "His grace is a lovely gentleman brother."
Bronson. "All right, if the two of you trust him then I do too."
Clara. "Thank you brother. Now, I must ask both of your opinions. How do I look?"
Arthur and Bronson gazed critically at their sister. For that evening's dinner, she was wearing an elegant dark red silk gown with off the shoulder sleeves and a sweetheart neckline. Cream silk gloves and matching dark red slippers completed her ensemble. Her hair was fixed into an elaborate braided bun with a pair of curls on either side of her temples. The back of the gown, like the rest of her wardrobe, was composed of a corset.
Clara. "Well? Do either one of you approve?"
Arthur smiled. "You look lovely Clara."
Bronson. "I don't believe Manchester is going to be able to take his eyes off you."
Clara smiled. "I am sure he won't. Oh, I believe his carriage has arrived."
The siblings moved toward the large glass window, watching as the Manchester carriage came up the drive toward their estate. Brandon had arranged for his carriage to come and collect Clara while he oversaw last minute preparations for the dinner. Turning away from the window, the trio left the bedroom and made their way downstairs.
Elizabeth smiled, hugging Clara tightly. "You look beautiful my love. Have a wonderful evening."
Clara smiled, returning the hug. "Thank you mama, I cannot wait to tell you everything once I return."
Elizabeth. "I cannot wait to hear it."
After giving her brothers a tight squeeze, Clara turned, allowing one of the female servants to slide a matching dark red shawl around her shoulders, and stepped out of the house. Careful not to trip over her own 2 feet, and the skirts of her gown, she climbed into the carriage with the assistance of the footman. Closing the door, she settled back against the tufted seat. Moments later, the carriage began to drive down the cobblestone streets toward Manchester Park, Brandon's country estate.
***
Brandon examined the elegant table set up on the terrace, smiling with satisfaction. The table had a trio of tall glowing candles and a crystal vase filled with long stemmed thornless pink gold roses. There was a bottle of wine with two glasses, two plates and two sets of cutlery.
Brandon took a breath, feeling a huge weight being lifted from his shoulders. He had arranged for the private dinner to be held on the terrace overlooking the gardens, knowing it would be much more romantic than the dining room. He was hoping and praying Clara would like it.
Gregor, the Manchester Park Butler, poked his head out of the dining room. He cleared his throat. "Your grace, I do believe Miss Harrington has arrived."
Brandon turned, nodding. "Thank you Gregor."
Gregor nodded before leaving.
Brandon took another breath, squaring his shoulders and trying to tamper down his excitement. For that evening, he was wearing a three-piece black silk suit with a cream button up shirt cravat and black boots. He was anxious to see Clara again, anxious to ask her his very important question. He had no idea if she would accept his offer or turn it down.
With confident steps, Brandon walked across the marble floor of the dining room before entering the foyer. He watched Gregor open the front door of the estate, and then felt his heart flutter as Clara entered. He felt his body explode into flames, his eyes roaming her elegant curves which were on fooled display in her dark red silk gown.
Clara smiled softly. "Good evening your grace."
Brandon smiled back, stepping forward and taking her gloved hand into his. He brushed his lips softly against her knuckles, his eyes meeting hers. "Good evening Miss Harrington. You look ravishing."
Clara smiled, blushing. "Thank you your grace. I am honored to be joining you for dinner this evening. Thank you for having me."
Brandon smiled, squeezing her hand. "My pleasure, thank you for joining me. Come, we are dining out on the terrace. "