Yet wasn’t that precisely what he was doing by looking for a wife? No, Tobias was holding on to the best parts of his life—his mother and his memories of her.

Tobias belatedly realized that Miss Wingate was staring at him. He couldn’t imagine why. Pursing her lips, she returned her gaze to Rowntree. “It seems as though my guardian must consider whether I may be escorted to Westminster Abbey or St. Paul’s.”

Damn, had he missed a question while he’d been congratulating himself on finding a potential husband for Miss Wingate? He thought back…Rowntree had suggested escorting her…

“I’m sure we can arrange something,” Tobias said.

“Well, if it isn’t Lord Overton!” Two ladies came toward them, the older of whom had spoken.

Tobias bowed to the new arrivals, recognizing Lady Fairweather and her daughter, Miss Fairweather, whom he’d danced with the other night. “What a pleasure to see you here, Lady Fairweather, Miss Fairweather. Allow me to present my ward, Miss Wingate.”

After a brief curtsey, Miss Wingate gestured to Mr. Rowntree. “This is Mr. Rowntree.”

Rowntree bowed. “I believe we met at the ball the other night.”

“We also danced,” Miss Fairweather said, her dark lashes fluttering.

“Ah yes, we did.” Rowntree smiled. “I was just on my way to the Greek antiquities. If you’ll excuse me.” He bowed again, extending himself deeper toward Miss Wingate. “I look forward to our next encounter, Miss Wingate.” He looked toward Tobias with a slight nod. “Overton.”

As Rowntree departed, Tobias couldn’t help but notice that Miss Wingate relaxed beside him. Did she not like the gentleman?

Lady Fairweather directed her animated gaze toward Tobias. Her blue eyes were so intense that he nearly took a small step backward. “What have you toured at the museum today?” she asked.

Tobias needed to direct his attention at the petite and pretty Miss Fairweather, not her somewhat intimidating mother. “Just the library.”

Before he could say anything about maps and Miss Wingate, she said, “And we are on our way out. I’m quite fatigued. I hope you’ll pardon us.”

Well, damn. He couldn’t suggest they take a walk through the Egypt gallery now. While Miss Fairweather was a bit young for his taste, he acknowledged that he ought to at least attempt to see if they would suit.

Lady Fairweather’s mouth turned down in a distinct pout. Suddenly Tobias was quite happy to avoid a promenade with the lady and her daughter. The only thing worse than an immature bride was an overbearing mother.

“I am sure we’ll see each other again soon,” Tobias said smoothly. “Perhaps the weather will improve, and we’ll be able to take a turn around the park.”

“I do long for warm days in the park,” Miss Fairweather said. “I love when the trees blossom in spring.”

“I’ll look forward to seeing you there, Miss Fairweather.” Tobias bowed again. “Lady Fairweather.”

He started walking with Miss Wingate once more, increasing their pace to leave the museum. “Are you really tired?”