Love at First Glance by Dominique LeSane Page A

that he’d heard spoken on his sister’s lips. He had to see the man that made his sister Lillian blush for himself.
                Dinner was set for early evening and had been prepared with the utmost care.
                When Johnathan arrived, the entire family had been summoned to greet him. He smiled and seemed unbothered by the great show of hospitality. He kissed Olivia and Kate’s hands and kissed Charlotte on both cheeks and showed his appreciation for her invitation by presenting her with a bouquet of roses.
                He heartily shook Victor’s hand and made sure to look Daniel in the eye as he shook his hand as well.
                They all entered the manor and were led to the grand dining area which had been set with the fine china and candlelights .
                “The setting is wonderful and I thank you for your kindness,” Johnathan said to the Countess and the Earl.
                “We are very happy to have you for dinner, Johnathan ,” Charlotte said politely as she took her seat.
                There was an awkward silence that settled in until the butler came in and announced the meal. As the servants began plating the meal for each of those in attendance, Daniel took control of the conversation.
                “So Johnathan , your last name is Bailey. I’m not sure if I know any Bailey’s in Lanchester .”
                It was to be the first of many questions that evening, but Johnathan had come prepared.
                “No sir. You probably don’t. My family hails originally from Wales. But from what I understand, there were many that eventually settled in London. My father chose to move to Lanchester and purchase a lot there because he visited once on business and fell in love with the village is all.”
                The meal commenced.
                “Lillian tells us that your parents live in America. I’ve never been there. Not sure I really would like to go, but tell us a little about them.” When Charlotte spoke, she tried her best to appear as proper as she could.
                “Well, Countess, it’s a beautiful place of immense opportunity. As I’m sure Lillian told you, my parents are British, but my father has always had an affinity for travel and exploration. He decided that we would move there when I was just a boy. It’s really all that I know. I’ve most recently come back to England to look after my parents’ properties here. They are getting older in age and are considering moving back to their native land to live out the rest of their days.”
                “Do you have any siblings?” Victor chimed in.
                “No. I’m sorry I don’t. My parents said that my mother was never supposed to be able to even birth me and that I was a miracle. They didn’t want to chance it again because she was so ill during her pregnancy and even at my birth. So I am cursed with being an only child.”
                Lillian smiled. Johnathan was doing so well with the inquisition.
                There was a silence again as the second course was brought in.
                “Lillian tells us that your parents own a chain of stores in America. Is that so?”
                “Yes, Milady. They do and they have been successful thus far. But it’s a lot of work. My father is getting tired and wants to return home to rest himself after years of hard work.”
                “Seems like he would be ready to pass on his life’s work to his son. I did not hear you mention wanting to take the reins when he relinquishes them.” Daniel’s words sounded more like a statement than a question.
                At first Johnathan was not sure if the comment was rhetorical, but he decided to answer.
                “I wasn’t sure if I wanted to run the family