Chapter Twenty-Seven There was silence in the room for a moment. Joshua wasn’t sure he could stand the suspense, wondering whether these women would keep their promise. “And it will never, ever leave this room,” Lady Blakemore stated. “Never!” Lady Colburne agreed. There were nods all around. Joshua found himself able to breathe again. “You are not actually illegitimate, only in the eyes of the church,” Lady Welles pointed out. “That is correct,” Joshua started. “But it is the church that matters in when it comes to inheritance—especially titles,” Lady Gorling pointed out. “You have most certainly paid for your assistance,” Lady Moreton said just loud enough for everyone to hear. “Yes, absolutely!” Lady Ayres agreed. “How may we help you?” Duchess Bolton asked. “You were correct

