Union

"It was only a matter of time, Miss Charlotte," he said politely (giving her a sincere smile). "Of course," she replied, "and how lovely." He drew his chair closer to hers, but not so close it could be considered an impropriety. "I am the least in appearance of my brothers, but the smartest of the four," Charles whispered. "I have the best interests of all at heart, including theirs ... and happily do they take my direction." Charlotte continued looking down, but smiled. "My sisters are stunning, while I am plain," she whispered in return. "They are romance-minded and always in need of advice and instruction, which I am happy to provide. This prolonged period with no dalliance has given me time to master strategy and rhetoric." "Well, then," Charles said gently, taking her hand (for the benefit of those watching from the great room door), "let us be companionable and support each other. Let us pool our angels and make the world a better place." Charlotte nodded, grinning more broadly. They liked each other and the match would move forward, like masterminds and like hearts.