“I never said I wouldn’t accept him eventually, presuming his papers are properly verified. But there was no need for such swift action on your part. If his connection to me is revealed too soon, my family will be subjected to vile gossip. People will wonder that I didn’t take him in myself.”

Hadrian clenched his jaw. Was that all that mattered to the man, his reputation and not the boy’s welfare? “People need know only that Leo is a distant cousin of mine. More than a decade has passed since Audrey eloped to America with her missionary. It’s doubtful anyone will associate the name Bellingham with you.”

Godwin looked far from satisfied. “If you insist upon going through with this folly, it is your duty to take the precaution of betrothing yourself to my daughter. At least then there might be justification for your custody. We could say that the two of you wish to raise the boy as your own.”

Duty. How many times had duty been drummed into his head as a child? Godwin had taught him to be a confident, steadfast man with a strong sense of responsibility as befitting his rank. Until a few weeks ago, he’d had no qualms with that. He’d even been ready to court Lady Ellen in order to fulfill a long-ago vow made between his father and Godwin. But now Hadrian rejected being caged in by such a false obligation. He would not marry to please anyone but himself—and the woman of his choice.

If, that is, Natalie would even have him.

“We’ve already discussed this matter,” he said tersely. “Lady Ellen has shown no interest in my courtship. And since leaving Oak Knoll, I’ve decided she is not the wife for me.”

Godwin jerked up his chin as if he’d been struck. “It’s that American woman, isn’t it? Miss Fanshawe has bewitched you. Based on a pretty face, you’ve taken her and the boy into your house when those papers may be false.”

“Unlike you, I made sure to learn her character. That’s why I don’t need additional proof. I judge Miss Fanshawe’s word to be true.”

“For pity’s sake, you’ve known her less than a month. She has appalling family connections, a baseborn father, and a disgraced grandfather. You should know better than to host a ball for such a common female. It will tarnish the dignity of your rank!”

A bolt of fury flashed through Hadrian. He gripped the arms of his chair to keep from lunging across the desk and throttling the earl. Springing to his feet, he towered over the man. “Enough! I will not tolerate your insults toward her. Is that clear?”

Godwin stared up at him, an awareness that he’d gone too far dawning on his taut features. Then he arose to give Hadrian a jerky nod. “Forgive me if I spoke too harshly. Nevertheless, I cannot approve of this. I pray that you may yet come to your senses.”

His shoulders squared, the earl turned and walked out the door.