“It is still fairly early in the Season, but I believe we can manage it in two weeks.”

Eleanor let out the breath she had been holding. John was going to be happy about not having to wait long. “That is perfect.”

* * *

John was not surprised to find Kenilworth behind him as they approached the table where supper had been laid. “What can I expect from Worthington concerning the settlement discussions?”

“That there will be no discussion.” Kenilworth picked up two plates. “He knows exactly what he wants for his sisters and will accept nothing less.”

That didn’t sound fair. “What if one has less wealth?”

“It doesn’t matter. His contract is all about percentages.” He looked at John. “Believe me when I tell you he knows almost to the penny what your assets are.”

This discussion was starting to put John’s back up. The only person who had ever dictated to him was his father. “What if I disagree?”

“Then you will not wed Eleanor.”

Hell if he wouldn’t marry her. “That is unacceptable.”

They had reached the end of the table, where he found ices. “I know you aren’t happy to hear this, but you must. I’ve known Worthington since we were in school together, and it made no difference to him. There are two other things you must know. Eleanor will be there as well, and the agreement will state that she keeps her property, both personal and real.”

“Bloody hell-hounds,” John muttered under his breath.

“Precisely.” Kenilworth asked a footman to assist them, and they started back to the table. “If it makes you feel any better, Grace kept all her property.”

That was surprising. But perhaps it was the reason Worthington insisted on doing the same for their sisters. “Did she?”

Kenilworth nodded. “She did. If you want Eleanor . . .”

“All of you have agreed? Even Merton?”

“Merton was the first. He was not at all happy about it, but he wanted Dotty.”

“Phinn?” John didn’t know why he had to make sure there was not a way for him to take control of the negotiations, but he did.

“Worthington sent the contract to Phinn’s brother and the agreement was made. He then sent it to the cousins with whom Augusta was traveling.”

“Damn.” It appeared there was nothing to do but agree. John did not want to give Eleanor the impression he didn’t want to marry her. “Why are the ladies present?”

“It is their life.” Kenilworth shrugged. “He believes they should know what the financial terms are.”

“Thank you for warning me.” John didn’t know what he would have done if Kenilworth had not prepared him. Probably made a pickle of things.

“Welcome to the family.” The man grinned. “Believe me when I tell you the benefits outweigh any perceived initial drawbacks.”

When John returned to the table Eleanor gave him a magnificent smile. “Two weeks.”