Gawain was rich, true, but Beth had an acceptable dowry for her station. There could be no doubt that she’d be marrying beneath her if she accepted him. Gawain, the son of a manufacturer, made no pretense of being a gentleman. Hatbrook’s forehead creased, his gaze moving from Gawain to Beth to him. Judah had his answer. Hatbrook would not be pleased at the match. Gawain, insensible to the marquess’s irritation, enticed Beth to share her favorite piano pieces. “I am sorry I cannot play you anything,” she said. “Judah’s instrument is in no condition for that. But you have heard me play before, I think.” “No, I have not had that pleasure,” he said, leaning forward. Hatbrook cleared his throat. “Alys is learning to play,” he announced. “Speaking of my sister,” Gawain said, turning to Judah, “I wonder if I might trouble you and your brother for a private word?”
