Edward’s eyes gleamed as he recognized the chief steward. “Hawthorne…” he greeted smoothly, extending his hand. “A pleasure, as always. I must admit, we didn’t expect someone of your standing tonight.”
Hawthorne gave a polite but restrained nod, shaking Edward’s hand with the calculated calm of someone who had overseen far too many negotiations to be easily impressed.
“Lord Edward, Sir Thomas,” he acknowledged. “I trust you are both well?”
“As well as we can be,” Edward replied, casting a subtle, pointed glance at his brother, who stood quietly beside him. “Your visit is an honor.”
“I’ve come specifically to see Miss Victoria Hale,” Hawthorne announced, commanding immediate attention. “I understand she’s preparing for an important event—her marriage. However, I’ve also been informed th
