Age of Innocence Boxed Set (Books 1-3)

by Debra Elizabeth

  “Which dress will you wear?”

  Mia wrung her hands together. “I don’t know. None seem pretty enough for a wedding.”

  “Nonsense, pick your best dress, and I’ll help you with new embroidery. We can work every day and it will be finished in no time. I have some lace and ribbon that will be perfect for it. It will be the most beautiful dress any bride has ever worn on her special day,” Emily said.

  Mia looked at her friend, her eyes welling with tears. “Thank you, Em. What would I do without you?”

  “It’s my pleasure, you must know that. I would do anything I can to secure your happiness. Now, tell me word for word how Mr. Giles proposed.”

  The two young women talked and giggled as they drank their tea.

  ***

  “Emily, stop daydreaming.” Her mother whispered in her ear.

  “Sorry, Mama. I was only thinking about how beautiful Mia looks today.”

  “Yes, she does indeed. I have never seen her look so happy. Mr. Giles is a perfect match for her.”

  Emily was thrilled for friend, but wondered if she would receive her own proposal any time soon. Her heart was set on Mr. Preston and she knew she must be patient, but it was hard especially when compliment after compliment flowed from his lips whenever they met, but he took no other action toward her. She longed to hear the minister’s words at her own wedding some day soon.

  “Wilt thou have this man to be thy wedded Husband…” the minister recited.

  ***

  Three months later, Emily sat at the vanity in her bedchamber, penning a letter.

  My dearest Mia,

  I find myself quite anxious these days. I couldn’t wait until our next visit to speak of this. I would like your wise counsel on this delicate matter as soon as you are able to write back. Mr. Preston has slipped me several lovely notes, one at each ball these past months, but he has only come to see me once, and he was with Mr. Richardson that particular time. I have no experience in the ways of courtship, and thus turn to you, my dearest friend. How many times did Mr. Giles visit you before he spoke of marriage?

  I find myself quite in love with Mr. Preston. How long must I suffer this unbearable wait before he speaks to either Papa or me? I so hope to have a wedding as beautiful as yours very soon myself. I am anxiously awaiting your reply.

  In loving friendship,

  Emily

  She blew on the ink, making sure it was dry before she folded the paper and applied her seal. She got up from her vanity, left her bedchamber and headed for the stairs. “Mrs. Jannell?” she called when she reached the bottom landing.

  “In here, Miss Stanton,” Mrs. Jannell replied from the dining room. She was choosing the table linens for the evening meal when Emily found her. “What do you need?”

  Emily handed her the letter. “Please have Joseph deliver this letter straight away to Mia; I mean, Mrs. Giles.”

  “Of course, Miss Emily. I’ll see to it right away. Would you like tea? I came from the kitchen and the water is hot.”

  “Yes, thank you; that would be lovely. I’ll be in the parlor.”

  Emily walked down the hall to the parlor and picked up her embroidery hoop. She looked at the piece trying to determine which thread was next, but she found it hard to concentrate. Her mind was racing with thoughts of Connor Preston. Her insides fluttered whenever she thought of him. Would he come today to visit her? What was he waiting for? And what of all the compliments he directed her way? Surely, he did not say those words lightly? The stolen kiss on the balcony had been so unexpected and yet, so magical at the same time. Surely that meant that he had feelings for her, didn’t it? What gentlemen kissed a young lady if he was not ready to propose marriage? But that was weeks ago. Why wasn’t he as prompt with a proposal as Mr. Giles had been with Mia?

  Thinking about Mia and Mr. Giles, she was thankful that their cottage was not too far in the country. Joseph should deliver the letter well before nightfall. She missed her friend so much, but at the same time, she was so happy for her. Mia had never looked lovelier. She had positively glowed the first time she had showed Emily around her new home and garden.

  Emily let out a pent-up sigh. The Season was nearly over, and still, she had no serious suitor. Perhaps there was something wrong with her. She hadn’t thought about that, but hadn’t she always tried her best to be kind and considerate to everyone that crossed her path? She couldn’t remember saying an unkind word. Why couldn’t she attract a serious suitor?

  “That’s a big sigh,” Catherine said, strolling into the parlor. “What troubles you, dear?”

  Emily bent her head down and concentrated on her sewing. “Nothing, Mama. I’m fine, thank you.”

  Before Catherine pursued the matter further, Mrs. Jannell came into the parlor and delivered the tea. “Ma’am, I’ve brought you a cup as well. Shall I pour it for you?”

  Catherine nodded. “Thank you.”

  “Will there be anything else, Mrs. Stanton?”

  “No, thank you, Mrs. Jannell,” Catherine said. “Please tell Cook that I’ll be in soon to discuss the dinner menu. We have guests coming this evening.”

  “Very good, Ma’am.” Mrs. Jannell replied before turning and leaving the parlor.

  Emily perked up. “Guests? Who is coming for dinner, Mama?”

  “The Richardsons are joining us tonight. I was delighted when Mrs. Richardson accepted the invitation. We don’t see them nearly enough.”

  “Oh, that’s nice,” Emily said half-heartedly. She turned her attention back to her embroidery.

  “I’ve seen you dance with young Mr. Richardson a number of times this Season. He’s such an upstanding young man. So kind and considerate and, let’s not forget, Lady Tisbury’s nephew,” Catherine said hoping to draw her daughter into revealing whatever it was that was bothering her.

  Emily dropped her embroidery in her lap and looked up. “Yes, he’s nice enough, but…”

  “There are my ladies,” Riley said, striding into the parlor. “My dear Mrs. Stanton, may I have a word with you?” he asked.

  Catherine rose from her seat. “Of course; I’ll join you in your study in a moment.”

  Mr. Stanton kissed his wife’s forehead tenderly. “That will be fine.” He glanced at Emily. “And how are you this fine day, Emily?

  “I’m fine, Papa. Thank you.”

  “Good, good,” he said before turning on his heel and leaving the parlor.

  Catherine looked over at her daughter. “Emily, what where you going to say?”

  “Oh, nothing of importance, Mama. I was agreeing with you. Mr. Richardson is nice, that’s all.” She picked up her embroidery again to deflect any more of her mother’s prying questions. The moment had passed. She would not tell her what was bothering her. It was best if she kept her own counsel for now.

  “We can continue our conversation later, but I must speak with your father at the moment.” Catherine picked up her teacup and headed down the hall.

  Emily stabbed the needle into the fabric, carelessly pulling her stitches too tight. Why was her mother talking to her about Mr. Richardson? Why were the Richardsons’ coming to dinner tonight and not Mr. Preston? Her mind was awhirl with questions. Why were men so mysterious? If she asked her mother about such things, then her feelings for Mr. Preston would be known. What if Mr. Preston did not share those same feelings? Her heart would surely break and would be more than she could tolerate. But, how could he not share her feelings? No gentleman would pay so much attention to a young woman without the intent of marriage, would he?

  Oh, Mr. Preston, please come and speak to me before my heart bursts with worry.

  ***

  Jonas Leary passed the report to his client. “This is the per annum for Miss Elizabeth Curry. She is the eldest daughter of John Curry, and he has provided an extremely generous dowry for her.”

  Connor studied the figures. “Jonas, you never cease to amaze me. How did you find out this information?”

  Jonas c
huckled. “I am known for my discretion.”

  “Indeed you are. I, for one, am especially appreciative of that discretion.”

  “Speaking of…”

  Connor interrupted him before he could finish his sentence. “Jonas, your fee will be paid in full soon. Very soon.”

  Jonas nodded. “What of Miss Emily Stanton?”

  Connor ignored the question. He stood and handed the report back to his solicitor.

  “I think I shall pay a social call upon Mr. Curry. It’s a beautiful day for a ride out in the country, don’t you agree? Perhaps the lovely Miss Elizabeth will be at home as well.”

  He shook hands with his solicitor and left the office, whistling all the way out of the building.

  Chapter 7

  Connor pulled up on the reins, stopping his horse on the rise. He looked down at the sprawling estate of Mr. John Curry. A smiled curved his lips. His solicitor’s report said it was twenty-five acres. The stone mansion at the bottom of the hill overlooked a large pond, and was surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens. The grassy area in front of the pond was perfect for a picnic on a warm sunny day or for children to run and play. From what he could tell from his vantage point on the rise, the gardens held many varieties of roses and would no doubt be spectacular when they were in bloom. There was no doubt; it looked every inch a house belonging to one of the wealthier families in the county.

  Connor patted his stallion’s neck. “Well, old fella, let’s go down and pay our respects to the family; especially the very beautiful Miss Elizabeth Curry.” He gave the horse a gentle kick in the hindquarters and trotted down the hill.

  A groomsman met him when he neared the front entrance of the home. Connor dismounted and handed the reins to him before climbing the front stairs. He lifted the knocker and let it announce his presence.

  The door was opened almost immediately. “Good day, sir. What may I do for you?”

  “Connor Preston to see Mr. Curry,” Connor replied handing the butler one of his calling cards.

  The butler nodded and moved aside, letting Connor enter. He escorted him to a small sitting room. “Please have a seat while I inform Mr. Curry,” he said before heading down the hall toward Mr. Curry’s study.

  Connor nodded. “Thank you.” While he waited, he took the opportunity to look around the room. It was elegant and decorated in shades of burgundy and gold. Rich velvet drapes hung on the large windows. The furnishings looked new. He surmised, or at the very least he thought this room did not get much use.

  Down the hall the butler rapped on the study door.

  “Yes, what is it?”

  The butler opened the door. “Sir, a Mr. Connor Preston is here to pay his respects,” he said while holding out the small silver tray with Connor’s card.

  Mr. Curry took the card and nodded. “Show him in. Thank you, Collins.”

  “Very good, sir.” The butler headed back to the sitting room. “Mr. Preston, please follow me. Mr. Curry will see you.”

  “Excellent.” Connor followed him down the hall and strode into the study with his hand extended. “Good day, Mr. Curry. I was on my way back from London and found myself near your estate. Thought I’d drop in for a quick chat.”

  John Curry pushed himself out of his chair and grasped Connor’s offered hand. “Yes, good to see you again, young man. I hope your business in London was concluded successfully.”

  “Indeed it was, sir.”

  John pointed to the chair. “Have a seat, Preston. Care for a drink?”

  Connor sat down in the chair in front of John’s large mahogany desk. “No, thank you. I couldn’t help but admire the grounds on my ride in. Your estate is magnificent.”

  John returned to his seat. He looked every inch the wealthy gentlemen in his smartly tailored jacket and highly polished boots. “Yes, yes it is. Am expecting a good harvest this year as well. Will you be staying in the country long? The pond is well stocked if you enjoy fishing and I’m also hosting a foxhunt on Sunday next. Care to join us?”

  “I haven’t been on a good foxhunt in weeks. I would be delighted to join you. Thank you, sir.”

  “Excellent. It should be a good showing.”

  “Sir, I would be remiss if I didn’t pay my respects to your lovely wife and daughters while I’m here,” Connor said.

  John chuckled. “Oh, indeed. It would be a travesty.” He picked up a small bell and rang for the butler.

  Connor found himself chuckling along with the older man, who saw right through his ruse for the visit. No matter, it was the way things were done and Connor made it his business to befriend every gentleman father he encountered especially the wealthy ones. One never knew when an acquaintance would turn advantageous.

  When the butler arrived, John had two orders of business for him.

  “You needed something, sir?”

  “Yes, Collins. Add Mr. Preston’s name for the fox hunt, and please escort him to the parlor to visit with my wife and daughters.”

  “Very good, sir.” Collins turned toward Connor. “If you would follow me, Mr. Preston, I will show you the way.”

  Connor rose. “Looking forward to that fox hunt. Let’s hope the weather warms a bit. Good day, Mr. Curry.”

  ***

  John watched Connor as he left his study. Perhaps, his wish had been answered. Preston was from a good family and he owned a large estate in his own right with a number of tenant farmers. He was good husband material indeed and hoped that Connor’s visit meant that he was smitten with Elizabeth.

  It would certainly lighten his burden. To see his eldest daughter married would be welcomed news indeed.

  John sighed before returning to the mountain of paperwork strewn across his desk. He ran his hand through his hair as he looked at the stack of bills that needed his attention. Running an estate as large as his was not all foxhunts and pleasure. The sooner he took care of his affairs, the sooner he could relax.

  ***

  Connor barely hid a smile as he followed Collins down the hall and through the gallery. He glanced around admiring the collection of magnificent paintings hanging on the walls.

  Yes, very wealthy indeed, he thought.

  The butler stopped at the parlor doorway and announced their guest. “Mrs. Curry, Mr. Preston is here to see you.”

  Mrs. Curry and her two daughters looked up at the butler’s announcement. The ladies stood and each gave Connor a curtsy.

  Connor strode into the room and bowed. “Mrs. Curry, it is pleasure to see you.”

  “Why, Mr. Preston, what a lovely surprise,” she said. “You’re just in time. My youngest daughter, Abigail, was entertaining us on the harpsichord. Would you care to stay and listen to another song?”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Curry. I would be delighted. I was in the area and could not pass by without paying my respects.” He turned toward Elizabeth. “Miss Curry, I hope you are well today.”

  The blonde beauty smiled and a slight blush made her cheeks rosy. “Thank you, Mr. Preston. I am quite well.”

  Connor took a seat nearest the harpsichord and winked at the young girl. “Miss Abigail, are you ready to play another tune?”

  Thirteen-year-old Abigail beamed at the attention. “Yes, of course. Let me find the perfect one.”

  Mrs. Curry rang a small bell and the housekeeper appeared. “Mrs. Ruther, please prepare tea for our guest.”

  The housekeeper curtsied. “Of course, Ma’am.” She quickly departed to fulfill her mistress’ wishes.

  “Mr. Preston, you said you were in the area today?” Mrs. Curry inquired.

  “Yes, I had business in town, and your lovely estate is on the road home. I’m afraid I’ve not seen much of you or your lovely daughters lately. I hope you have not been ill?”

  Elizabeth spoke first. “We’ve been at the shore for a few weeks. It was for my brother, but his heath is much improved now.”

  Connor looked around the room. “Where is William?”

  “He’s with the tutor,
” Mrs. Curry said.

  “I see. Please tell him I asked after him.”

  “Of course,” Mrs. Curry said.

  “Mr. Preston, will you be attending the ball Saturday next?” Elizabeth asked.

  “Indeed, Miss Curry. Perhaps you may grant me the pleasure of a quadrille or two?”

  Elizabeth’s face brightened and her intense green eyes sparkled. “That would be lovely. Thank you. I look forward to it, Mr. Preston.”

  Abigail chose that moment to start playing a lively tune. Connor turned his attention to the young girl with a satisfied grin on his face.

  ***

  “Are you feeling poorly this evening?” Nesmith asked while fixing Emily’s hair for dinner.

  Emily hesitated. She wanted to tell someone about the love letters that Mr. Preston had written to her, but she wasn’t sure it would be wise to confide in Nesmith. The lady’s maid had been attending her for as long as she remembered, but what if Nesmith went to her mother and spilled her confidence? After all, Nesmith was Mama’s lady’s maid and she owed her first loyalty to her.

  Her stomach was in knots. Would Mama approve of her feelings for Mr. Preston? She did not recall any comments her mother had made about him. Did she like him? She could never tell anyone, except for Mia, about the stolen kiss on the balcony. She’d been quite surprised when he appeared at her side. Her father would be furious at such forward behavior by a gentleman. She was so torn over what to do. Should she wait for Mia’s reply? It seemed the best thing to do. Mia would certainly advise her on the proper course of action.

  Emily shrugged her shoulders. “I am well, Nesmith. You fuss over me too much. Perhaps I’m a bit tired, that’s all. I will retire straight away when the Richardsons take their leave, and tomorrow you’ll find me as good as new.”

  Nesmith nodded. “Good. Let’s finish getting you dressed, then. The guests will be arriving shortly.”

  It wasn’t long after Emily went downstairs that the Richardson family arrived.

  “My compliments to your cook,” Sarah Richardson said. “She is truly a gem. The meal was delicious.”