His aunt smiled. “He’s been very respectful of our feelings. You know that Lucas was missing and presumed dead for a number of years?” At Kendra’s nod, the older woman continued, “After seven years, he was declared deceased, so the title and estate came to William. He grew up here as a younger son and was happy to return. Then Lucas most wonderfully returned from the dead and everything changed again.”

Curious, Kendra asked, “Was it hard to give all this up?”

“Not at all. Though the lawyers made a meal of it, in practical terms nothing really changed. Lucas said we should continue to treat Camden Keep and the London town house as our own. Naturally he’s welcome in both houses at all times.”

“It’s lovely that you all get on so well.”

Lady Mandeville laughed. “It’s not difficult. We have no children who might covet the title and property. Lucas is the closest thing we have to a son, and the day we learned that he was alive and coming home was one of the happiest of our lives.” Her gaze became thoughtful. “Of course, things will change when Lucas marries, but we won’t cause trouble for him or his wife.”

Hearing what wasn’t said, Kendra said, “You needn’t wonder if I might become a problem. I’m a divorcée, my reputation is ruined, and I’m forbidden by law to marry again. I hope I can build a case that will allow me to be reunited with my son, but the reputation is irredeemable. Lucas and I are friends, not lovers.”

The other woman’s gaze sharpened. “You were Lady Denshire? We’d heard of that affair. It was quite . . . lurid.”

Kendra sighed, disappointed but unsurprised. “Very lurid indeed. I could tell you that the evidence against me was fabricated by Denshire, but you have no reason to take my word for it. I don’t wish to cause you discomfort. I’ll ask the coachman to take me to the nearest inn.”

Lady Mandeville’s brows arched. “There’s no need for that. Quite apart from the fact that you’re Lucas’s guest and this is his house, I can’t believe that he would befriend you without good reason. You are welcome here. I look forward to hearing more of the scandal from your point of view.”

Kendra caught her breath, wishing there was a way she could be part of Lucas’s generous, open-hearted family. It wasn’t possible, but she was grateful for Lady Mandeville’s acceptance. As Lucas had said, his aunt and uncle were very tolerant. “Thank you. I’ll be happy to explain what really happened.”

“You can tell us about it over tea,” Lady Mandeville said. “Then Lucas will want to introduce you to the Magdalene. Has he told you about her?”

“Yes, and I’m looking forward to meeting her.”