Would Elianna look attractive in white? It had been years since she’d worn any colors other than the family’s livery shades of green and gold. Her gowns were fashionable enough, for Lady Berkly would not allow anyone in the household to be outdated, but they were all the same color, cut, and style.
“I am almost finished.” The seamstress stuck another pin in the hemline.
Lady Caroline turned her attention to Elianna. “I should like to stroll in Hyde Park after my fitting.”
Lady Berkly’s warning swam in Elianna’s head. Visiting the public park could prove foolish. A slim possibility remained that someone might recognize her. She chased the thought away. Surely all of London had forgotten about her years ago—they’d never known her to begin with. Regardless, Lady Caroline would throw a fit if Elianna denied her wishes. “A visit to the park sounds lovely.”
Lady Caroline grinned before looking back at the dressmaker. “Do hurry. The fashionable hour is upon us, and I have no wish to waste it in this shop.”
Elianna cringed at her charge’s lack of good manners. She’d done all she could over the years to instill proper behavior in the children. Lady Caroline’s brother, Hudson, had heeded the lessons well. Unfortunately, Lady Caroline had a bit too much of her mother’s ill-mannered personality. Still, on more than one occasion Lady Caroline had shown she possessed the capacity to act a proper, respectful lady. Sadly, that side of her was rarely shown to those below her station.
“Of course not, my lady.” The dressmaker straightened to her full height before taking a few steps back to gaze at her creation. “I have everything I need. Allow me to assist you in changing.”
“Will Lady Caroline require another visit?” Elianna asked, secretly hoping she would. She had no desire to return to Crystal Court so soon, a place she once never dreamed of leaving, but being under Lady Berkly’s control changed the way she felt about her home.
“One more to ensure I have everything properly fitted should do. Will tomorrow morning be acceptable? Say, ten o’clock?” The dressmaker directed her query to Lady Caroline who nodded her agreement.
Elianna’s stomach turned. They would have no choice but to return to the Berkly estate on the morrow. She stood from her stool as the dressmaker helped Lady Caroline back into her frock. There was nothing for it other than to enjoy today—and she resolved to do just that.
In short order, the coachman delivered them to Hyde Park. Lady Caroline departed the carriage first ordering her driver to remain where he was before turning back toward the open coach door.
Elianna peeked out from the safety of the carriage. Ladies and gentlemen were all over, strolling, driving in carriages, and riding horses. Her stomach fluttered in an unpleasant way. Perhaps this was a mistake.
“Come along, Elianna, do not dally.” Lady Caroline glared at her. “We already missed so much while stuck at the dressmaker’s.”
Elianna reached for her bonnet ties to ensure they were secure before taking her first tentative step toward the open air of the park. No sooner had her slippered feet met the ground, Lady Caroline started strolling toward an open grassy area. Elianna swallowed past her trepidation, reminding herself of her resolve to enjoy the outing, then followed after the lady. “Lady Caroline, do allow me to catch up.”
Caroline paused, then turned to Elianna, annoyance flickered in her gaze. “Hurry.”
Elianna increased her pace slightly, reaching Lady Caroline’s side in a few heartbeats. She fell into step beside the lady. “Is there something in particular you wish to see or partake in while we are here?” Lady Caroline seemed to be on a mission of sorts and Elianna wished to know why.
“I simply want to see and be seen.” Lady Caroline tipped her chin a notch. “Everyone knows Hyde Park is the place to be.”
Elianna choked back a retort and turned her focus to her surroundings. It was a beautiful day. The sun shone bright, little wispy clouds hung in the sky, and a slight breeze ruffled her skirt. Perfect except for one thing—half the ton must be here.
“Woof-woof.”
Elianna turned toward the barking a bit too late to save herself as a large hound jumped up, slamming its oversized paws into her midsection. She stumbled back in a most unladylike fashion before crashing to the grass. The dog continued to make a fuss, licking her cheek and barking.
She threw her arms across her face and attempted to gather her wits. What had happened? Where had the dog come from? And for heaven’s sake, where was its owner? She did not have time to ponder that last question before she was grabbed and hauled back to her feet by someone with strong arms. Her backside came into contact with a wall of muscle and she froze.
“My word,” Lady Caroline screeched. “Contain your beast.”
“Heel,” a deep male voice said, sternly.
The dog dropped into a sitting position, its tongue hanging out the side of its mouth.
Elianna tried to ignore the thumping in her chest as she stepped out of the stranger’s embrace. Upon turning to face him, she was struck by his sheer good looks. Any thoughts she had of giving him the what for dissipated as she trailed her gaze unabashedly over his strong jawline before meeting his green eyes. She glanced to Lady Caroline who seemed equally taken aback. She twirled her parasol and batted her lashes in a flirtatious way Elianna had seen her utilize before.
“Allow me to show how sorry I am over ices at Gunters?” The gentleman smiled, revealing a perfect set of teeth.
“We couldn’t poss—”
“But of course, we would be delighted.” Lady Caroline stepped forward. “I am Lady Caroline, the Earl of Berkly’s daughter.”
Elianna stood back, her eyes pressed closed in an attempt to block out the situation. The last thing they needed to do was draw attention, and now several lords and ladies were staring. Allowing this man to escort them anywhere would only start gossip, bringing more unwanted attention their way.
“I am Lord Sinclair.” He took Lady Caroline’s hand and pressed a kiss to her glove-covered hand. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.
Elianna opened her eyes in time to witness the exchange and the deep blush that bloomed on Lady Caroline’s cheeks.
Lord Sinclair released her hand, then came to stand in front of Elianna. A twinkle of something danced in his gaze—mischief? “It seems my beast knows how to find a beautiful woman in the crowd.”
Elianna averted her gaze. “There is no need for flattery, my lord. All is forgiven.”
“Let us be on our way to Gunter’s,” Lady Caroline said, moving closer to Lord Sinclair.
Elianna snapped her gaze to Lady Caroline. “I am afraid we must decline. It is not at all proper. Besides, there is nothing to apologize for.” She stepped back and indicated her gown. “See, all is well. No rips or stains. Nothing to fuss about.”
“You are a perfectly acceptable chaperone.” Lady Caroline shot Elianna a warning look, then wrapped her fingers around Lord Sinclair’s arm. “Pay my companion no mind, my lord. She is the nervous sort.”
Garrett Tumbly, Viscount Sinclair, studied the women as they ate the ices he’d purchased for them. Luna, his dog, lay on the grass by his hessians lapping up her own scoop of strawberry ice. Lady Caroline proved to be shallow and he cared not for the way she spoke of her companion. She was a rather plain girl with dull eyes and dark hair—mean spirited to boot.
“A handkerchief would not be remiss.” Lady Caroline looked at her companion expectantly.
Garrett inwardly cringed at the lady’s tone. He pitied the man who found himself trapped in the parson’s noose with her—not that he’d allow her to know his thoughts. He’d always been a gentleman, a ladies’ man, and that would not change today. He would continue to allow her to flirt. Likewise, he’d continue to charm her, if for no other reason than to stay in the presence of her companion. At any rate, it had always been more of a game to him. He rather enjoyed making ladies blush.
Lady Caroline’s companion produced a crisp, white
linen square and handed it to her as he continued to study her. Despite Lady Caroline’s rude tone and demanding manner, her companion bestowed a warm smile on her. One that lit her violet eyes, causing them to shine like amethysts.
“Might I have your name?” he asked, feeling very much like he was drowning in her gaze.
“I…my…Elianna.” A slight blush formed on the apples of her cheeks.
“Elianna. A beautiful name for a beautiful woman.” He winked, enjoying the way her cheeks further colored.
“Hump.” Lady Caroline shook her head. “There is no need to flatter my companion, Miss Elianna.”
He looked on as the sparkle left Miss Elianna’s eyes and found that he desperately wished to put it back. He turned to Lady Caroline. “All beautiful creatures deserve to be flattered.”
The lady giggled, seeming satisfied with his response. A shallow debutant, to be sure. Exactly as he’d assumed her to be upon their initial interaction. Her companion, however, captured his imagination. Aside from being stunning—a diamond of the first water—Miss Elianna appeared to be modest, well natured, and pure.
Despite Lady Caroline’s ill treatment, Miss Elianna treated her with kindness. She’d dismissed his dog’s disobedience without further ado, too. Her actions spoke volumes about her character. He became overwhelmed with the desire to know more about her. “From where do you hail, Miss Elianna?”
“She serves my family, Lord Sinclair. I assure you there is nothing interesting about her.”
Something was surely off. The woman was more than a servant—had to be based on the way she presented herself. She conducted herself with the demeanor and posture of a lady—skills one did not simply understand. He’d suspected her to be a peer’s daughter, not high enough up to claim the title lady, now a paid companion for whatever reason. “I beg to differ. Miss Elianna presents a mystery and I do rather enjoy a good puzzle.” He slid a bemused look in her direction. “Might you be persuaded to enlighten me about yourself?”
Miss Elianna stuck her spoon into her ice and met his stare. “My family hails from Northern England. You would not know of us.”
“And should I wish to learn of you?”
“You would be remiss in such an endeavor.” She reached for her spoon before placing a bite of the ice into her mouth.
Garrett studied her changing expression and posture. The way she averted her eyes, shifted her feet, and occupied her mouth. He could not help but draw the conclusion she had something to hide. A secret he meant to discover.
“As I said, there is nothing to know. She came to my family as a governess and stayed on as my companion.” Lady Caroline smirked with triumph. “However, should you wish to learn more about me, I may well be able to secure you an invitation to my family’s upcoming house party.” She angled her head in a saucy invitation not at all befitting a debutant of her status.
The move only served to appall him. Despite his personal inclination of dissuasion, he beamed at her. “I should rather enjoy the opportunity to visit your family estate, Lady Caroline.”
Lady Caroline offered a wry grin. “Then you shall. However, I must insist your dog remain in London.”
Garrett nodded to Lady Caroline as Luna released a whine and moved to a spot directly in front of Miss Elianna’s feet. “As you wish, my lady.”
Caroline took a delicate bite of her ice as Garrett returned his attention to Miss Elianna. A visit to the Berkly estate would be his pleasure.
That is, as long as Miss Elianna was in residence—but he’d keep his reasoning to himself. He bent to pat Luna on the shoulder. His dog had not singled out the woman for no reason. Attending the party would give him ample time to discover her secrets and provide a much-needed distraction from London.
Chapter 3
True to Lady Caroline’s word, an invitation to Crystal Court, the Berkly estate, had been bestowed upon Garrett. He’d arrived at the house party two days prior and had spent all of his spare time since seeking out Miss Elianna and attempting to avoid Lady Caroline.
The task proved easier said than done. It seemed Lady Caroline had set her cap for him, and her mama, Lady Berkly, had launched an all out assault to see them matched. Likewise, Miss Elianna remained elusive as though she had no wish to see him again.
Where did the woman hide herself all day? More importantly—why did she tolerate the Berkly’s ill treatment of her? Ever since their meeting, he’d pondered the way Lady Caroline had spoken to, and of, Miss Elianna. Even before he took note of the sadness and longing hidden in Miss Elianna’s eyes, he’d known something was amiss. Being a fool for damsels in distress, Garrett was left no choice other than to investigate further, thus accepting Lady Caroline’s invitation. For all the good that had done him.
He turned down a path that wove through the garden bordered by flowering bushes. All had not been lost. Miss Elianna was here. Eventually, he would locate her. When he did, he would solve the mystery that surrounded her and help in any way he could.
Garrett followed the cobblestones veering toward the right. A patch of violets caught his gaze bringing to mind Miss Elianna’s unusual eyes. She was a striking woman, indeed. He spent much of his time pondering her situation, guessing at her circumstances, or admiring her finer attributes. When his mind was not occupied with thoughts of her, he entertained himself among the other guests.
Much to his chagrin, Lord Aubry and his wife were also in attendance. Garrett had yet to confide in his long-time friend about Miss Elianna, but liked that he could if reinforcements were later needed. Aubry would be all too happy to assist him in helping Miss Elianna if for no other reason than the adventure to be had.
Not that long ago, he and Aubry had saved another damsel. Rose Woodcourt, a seamstress, had been threatened by a nefarious man seeking to force her hand in marriage. By the time Aubry and Garrett had finished, Miss Rose bore the title Lady Aubry. His friends were very much in love and deliriously happy with their marital state.
Garrett shuddered at the notion. Too many believed they’d found happiness only to see it dashed later when they discovered were not as compatible as they’d thought. Or worse, they became so wrapped up in one another that they neglected everyone else. The former had been true of his own parents—still was.
He had been raised by tutors, governesses, nannies, and then sent off to boarding school. Upon his return from school, Father bestowed a property and modest amount of coin on him before once more turning his back. He doubted the Earl and Countess of Laston had spared him a thought since. They were selfish, only having time for themselves and each other. Never mind the product of their love—him.
No. Love would never be for him. He refused to allow such a state to rule his life or cause him to neglect those he should care for. Garrett found comfort and enjoyment in his vices—women, booze, and gaming. There remained no need for him to settle into matrimony anytime soon. He understood the day would come. Eventually, an heir would be necessary. However, when the time came, his would be a match of convenience. Such arrangements were much safer for all involved.
He entered the rose garden, grateful for the peace and seclusion it offered. The paths were encased by tall bushes on both sides boasting blooms in a kaleidoscope of colors. He drew in a deep breath of rose-scented air, his tense muscles relaxing in measures.
This morning’s entertainment proved more than enough for one day. If not for his desire to help Miss Elianna, he’d pack up and head back to London. He rubbed his jaw. Things would be much easier if he knew what the woman needed help with, or more likely saving from.
He scrubbed his hands over his face. Bloody hell, life would be easier if he could learn to ignore damsels in distress. He should be back in London imbibing in strong drink and loose women at this very moment—not seeking out a troubled woman who clearly had no desire to be found.
The whimsical sound of a woman in song reached him. Intrigued, Garrett peeked through a nearby rose bush. His gaze landed on Miss Elianna, a baske
t hung on her arm as she bent inspecting a lush pink bloom. His gaze trailed over her, a smile tugging at his lips. The way the sun bounced off her golden locks and how her sweet voice drifted through the air, mesmerized him. As if under a spell, his feet remained rooted to the ground while his eyes remained riveted on her.
Elianna cut a rose from the bush she’d been inspecting and placed it into her basket. Her song ended as she glanced around before moving to a new bush. She repeated the entire process like a bee buzzing from flower-to-flower, collecting nectar. When she began walking toward yet another bush, Garrett propelled himself into motion. If he stood there much longer, he’d lose her before he had the chance to approach her.
“Miss Elianna,” Garrett called out as he entered the path she occupied.
Elianna jumped at the intrusion. Her basket swinging on her arm, she turned to face him. “Lord Sinclair.” Her free hand moved to rest on her breast. “You startled me.”
“Fancy my surprise at finding a woman whose beauty far surpasses the roses surrounding her. I simply could not help myself.” Garrett winked before smiling roguishly.
Her cheeks blossomed pink. “There is no need for flattery, my lord.” She turned back to her task, inspecting a yellow rose on the bush before her.
“You call it flattery. I call it telling the facts.” He reached out to brush his fingertips over the silky petals of a flower. Would her skin feel as soft? He’d wager it would.
She laughed as she cut another rose for her collection and dropped it into her basket. “I beg of you, cease your flirtation.”
“Is that what you think I am doing? Flirting?” He walked beside her to another flowering bush of snowy white buds.
“I am most certain of it, my lord.” She shot him an amused glance.
He could not stop the grin tugging at his lips. Miss Elianna charmed him even more then he suspected she would. Without Lady Caroline nearby, Miss Elianna seemed an entirely different person. Had she smiled at all when last they met? He’d certainly not heard laughter come from her bow shaped lips that day. “I will attempt to keep my flirtation at bay, but I wish a boon from you in return.”
Enticed by Lady Elianna (Fabled Love Book 3) Page 2
