Chapter 16

Catherine answered the door of the family suite, and a jolt of reaction went through her as she was confronted by Leo's lanky, big-framed form. He was fashionably dressed in a dark coat with wide lapels, loose trousers with no creases, and a boldly patterned waistcoat with silver buttons.

He surveyed her with wintry eyes, an arrogant smile tilting the corners of his lips. "Good afternoon, Marks."

Catherine was stone-faced, her voice edged with scorn. "Lord Ramsay. I'm surprised you could tear yourself away from your amusements long enough to visit your sister."

Leo gave her a look of bemused mockery. "What have I done to earn a scolding? You know, Marks, if you ever learned to hold your tongue, your chances of attracting a man would rise exponentially."

Her eyes narrowed. "Why would I want to attract a man? I have yet to see anything they're good for."

"If for nothing else," Leo said, "you need us to help produce more women." He paused. "How is my sister?"

"Heartbroken."