Читать книгу A Scandalous Situation - Patricia Rowell Frances - Страница 13

T he spirit at breakfast was even more celebratory than that of the previous evening. Mama was jubilant—very quietly and discreetly, of course, only her sparkling eyes betraying her. Papa looked as if the weight of the world had been removed from his back. Lord Duncan seemed excessively pleased with himself.

Iantha fought for control.

What had she done? Even at her own family’s table his presence flooded her with unaccustomed sensations, tightening every muscle in her body. And then he would say something that made her laugh in spite of herself. And turn his warm smile on her. And she would forget for a moment. Perhaps he was correct in believing that he could help her become whole. One thing was certain—she would never again have the opportunity he offered.

She would make the attempt. With every fiber of her being, she would do her best to put the past behind her—to become the woman she had once hoped to be. Lest the terror again sweep over her, Iantha forced herself to think about the conversation at hand.

Her mother was speaking. “I believe we should announce the betrothal at Christmas. That is such a lovely time for a joyous occasion, and people love to come to the country for the holiday. I shall begin making a list at once. We must have all our acquaintances. But of course, Iantha, dear, if you would prefer—”

Iantha shook her head. She had much rather put off any announcing until she felt more sure that she had made the correct decision. But her mother’s face positively glowed with anticipation. “Perhaps a small party, Mama. I…” Lady Rosley’s face dimmed. Iantha could not bear to disappoint her. “But I will defer to your judgment. You will know best what to do.”

“I believe Christmas is a first-rate idea, Lady Rosley.” Lord Duncan set down his fork. “But may I suggest a slight alteration to the plan? There is something I have been wanting to do, and I would welcome your help with it.”

Lady Rosley raised her eyebrows. “Why of course, if I can assist you with anything…”

“The thing is, I would like to make my return to England more widely known. I have been thinking of having a house party at Christmas myself to reopen the Eyrie. I’m sure my aunt, Lady Dalston, would be willing to act as my hostess, but she is rather elderly, and I need help with the guest list and other arrangements. Those matters are beyond my ken.” He gave the lady the full effect of his winning smile. “If you would be willing, as a favor to me, to allow me to host the affair and help me with it, Lord Rosley might make the announcement then.”

Very delicately handled. Now why did his lordship really want to host the party? Iantha aimed a questioning glance in his direction, but he contrived not to see it.

“Having an affair to announce your return is well thought of.” Lord Rosley considered as he added cream to his coffee. “I’m sure you will wish to continue to pursue your business interests. You will want to renew acquaintance with certain influential people.”

“Exactly. What do you say, Lady Rosley? Do you think we can make the Eyrie sufficiently festive for such an occasion?”

The gleam of challenge appeared in Lady Rosley’s eye. “I’m sure we can, my lord, although I have not visited there in many years. It has been kept up?”

“Yes, ma’am, by my agent. But it could use a lady’s hand.”

Her ladyship warmed to the subject. “Christmas in a castle. Oh, yes. We must use evergreen garlands, of course, lots of them, and have musicians who can perform suitable music—carols and lays and—”