Once again, his gaze was drawn to her mouth. Her lips tilted up at the ends even when she wasn’t actually smiling. “We always enjoy our time in the metropolis. Our brother must attend to his duties in the Lords and we come as a family to be with him.”

She had probably spent more time here than he had. “I have heard that you have a great many members in your family.”

“There are, indeed, and the number continues to grow,” she said in a softer tone. “My three elder sisters—the Duchess of Rothwell, Lady Kenilworth, and Lady Phinn Carter-Woods—are married and either have children or will have them. Matt and Grace have three little ones. Our cousins, Lord and Lady Merton, also have children. Lady Merton’s family lives near my brother Stanwood’s estate, and we know them well.” She caught his gaze. “Do you have a large family?”

He’d had no idea how well-connected she was. Although, if he had given the matter any consideration, it would have come to him. “Er. No. In my immediate family there is only my twin sister and me.”

“Are you close?” Eleanor did not know why she asked, except it was clear they no longer lived together.

“We used to be much closer; even when I was at school there was a tie between us. We drifted apart after our father died.” Something he was not going to discuss with Lady Eleanor. “Still, there is a special bond.”

“I understand that.” Her tone was low and melodic. “What other family do you have?”

“There are some relatives on my mother’s side, but they live in the North, and we don’t see them often.” He smiled at her again. “I am more than happy for you to talk about your family. It must be fascinating to have so many children about.”

She glanced at the gate. “Thank you for your escort. Perhaps I will see you tomorrow.”

“I shall make it happen.” He made his bow as elegantly as he could. “Until then, my lady.”

Lady Eleanor inclined her head. “My lord.”

John waited until they were through the gate before he turned back. He might have to revise what he wanted in a wife. He’d not realized how important graciousness was in a woman, or dedication to family.

“So, that’s the way the wind’s blowing, is it?” St. Albans said as he came up next to John. “I must admit, I’m quite taken with Lady Alice. She is very sharp-witted.”

“It is much too soon for me to make any sort of decision, but Lady Eleanor appears to meet all my qualifications.” Still, it was a little strange the twins could be so different.

“You should have warned me off,” St. Albans said good-naturedly. “I have no wish to poach.”