He would have liked to be surprise, but ever since his grandfather overruled his mother's ultimatum, it was only a matter of time. The money always came with a catch, which was why he had made a point to get away with as much as he could before it all caught up to him. "Did she now?" And she didn't even have the courage to tell him this herself. "It is rather interesting time, Elaina rekindling her interest in my marital status."
Zacharias glanced over at Astoria, who did seem honestly surprised about the change in conversation. "As for smart, other than the fact you disprove of Astoria's desire to be employed I can't say that I really know much about her." Perhaps they could all be taken for surprise yet again. And if their mothers were going to force them through this, he was going to get something out of it in the process. "Although if you and my mother had spoken at any length, you must be aware of her feelings about that particular matter."
Despite her maiden last name and the trappings it entitled her, Elaina was never one content to stay at home. She hadn't just been handed a role on the Board of Trustees at St. Mungo's, Elaina had earned it. And she was working hard to instill the same values in Adelle.