Gregory would try, but he doubted he’d be much help. Clifford had made it clear since their father’s death that he was glad to be free of his management, that he was eager to establish himself as the marquess.

“I am not the older brother, however,” he responded. “Do you have siblings?”

“Yes. A sister.”

He was reminded of how she and Mrs. Creighton looked as though they could be related. But if they were, Mrs. Renshaw surely would have said so. “I hope you are closer than my brother and me.”

“Based on what you’ve said, I would say so. I admire her very much. This garden is beautifully laid out,” she said, effectively changing the subject. He didn’t mind.

“My family has supported it for generations. It is far more stunning in the summer, as you can imagine.”

“I’m sure. What a wonderful thing for your family to do.”

Gregory only hoped it would continue. Alas, regardless of what his father wanted, Gregory couldn’t control what Clifford would do. In the end, if he wanted to cease the marquessate’s support of the garden, he could. Very soon, Gregory was going to have to get back to his own life and pursue a career. For the first time in months, he was eager to do so—and he credited meeting Mrs. Renshaw.

“I didn’t realize you were a patroness at the Phoenix Club,” he said, impressed. “That is where we met?”

“Yes.”

“I apologize for not remembering you. Indeed, I can’t understand how that is possible. I must have lost my wits just before making your acquaintance.”

She let out a soft, short laugh. “I am not offended to be found unremarkable. On the contrary, there is peace in anonymity, I think.”

“It is statements like that one that make you utterly remarkable.” Feeling inexplicably bold, he added, “I find myself captivated by you, and that has never happened before.”

Color flamed her cheeks, and he was sorry to have caused her any discomfort. He rushed to say, “I didn’t mean to embarrass you.”

“It isn’t that,” she said. “It’s just… You aren’t like any gentleman I’ve met. They don’t typically reveal what they are thinking in such a direct manner. It also seems as if you genuinely mean it, that you aren’t offering an empty platitude.”

“I do mean it. Flirtation and subtlety are somewhat beyond me.” He shook his head, smiling faintly.

“I should be equally frank. While I am flattered, I am quite happy in my widowhood, and I’ve no plans to change my status. Ever.” She spoke kindly but firmly, leaving no question as to her intentions.