Chapter Twelve
“Not at all. In fact, if you are working to rebuild your reputation with society, I might not be the best person for you to be seen with. My reputation may taint your own in a completely different way,” Charles admitted. She clearly had nothing to say to that, so he continued, “I am called a cit,” he told her and then gave a little laugh. “It is true too. I am a businessman and not of noble blood. My mother has been labeled a mushroom because she is trying to insinuate herself where she, presumably, doesn’t belong.”
Lady St. Vincent frowned and then slowly nodded. “I have heard such accusations. But your aunt is married to a nobleman, isn’t she?”
“Yes. She is our ‘in’ to society. My cousin, Ainsby, is a viscount. My maternal grandfather was a gentleman farmer who, althoug
