Age of Innocence Boxed Set (Books 1-3)

by Debra Elizabeth

  The cozy stone cottage came into view and Colby saw Thomas outside playing with his young sons. The little boys’ laughter floated on the air. It was clear they loved their father. A twinge of envy settled in Colby’s gut. Would he have his own coveted family some day? No young lady had caught his eye for the past few Seasons, much to his father’s displeasure. Lord Tisbury had been hinting for the past few years that it was time for Colby to be settled, but he wasn’t looking forward to the Season this year with the latest group of twittering young ladies all vying for his attention, especially Miss Kathryn Larkinson. He didn’t want a wallflower for a wife. His ideal woman wouldn’t be afraid to speak her mind, but he wasn’t sure she even existed. Young ladies were taught to be subservient to their future husbands, not offering any opinions of their own. How would he know a young lady’s mind if she never shared anything of substance with him?

  Thomas turned as Colby and Diego came trotting down the dirt road. “Mr. Tisbury, what brings you around today?”

  “Hello, Thomas,” Colby said as he dismounted Diego. He offered his hand and Thomas shook it in a firm grip. “I’ve come to make the spring rounds and see if any repairs are needed.”

  “Boys, go play while I talk with Mr. Tisbury,” Thomas said to his children.

  His three sons scampered off toward the back of the cottage. “My turn to swing,” said the youngest as they rounded the corner.

  “They’re getting so big,” Colby said. “Where does the time go?”

  “Nothing like growing sons to make a man feel old,” Thomas said with a chuckle. “Beth is inside with our newest son. Care for some tea?”

  “Yes, thank you,” Colby said. He tied his horse’s reins to the post and followed Thomas inside the cottage.

  Beth came rushing out from the back room. “Thomas, I told you to keep the boys outside. The little one is down for a nap.”

  “The boys are outside, but I’ve brought a guest for tea,” Thomas said, kissing his wife on the cheek.

  Beth looked beyond her husband and her face split into a wide grin. “Mr. Tisbury, how delightful to see you.”

  Colby walked to Beth and lifted her hand to his lips for a quick kiss. “The pleasure is all mine, Mrs. Galen.”

  Beth’s cheeks colored. “Oh, call me Beth. Please have a seat. The tea will be ready in a few moments.

  “Thank you,” Colby said, sitting at the sturdy wooden table that dominated the main room in the cottage.

  Beth busied herself getting the teacups on the table. “So what brings you around today, Mr. Tisbury?” she asked.

  Colby took off his hat. “I’m off to London soon, but I wanted to check in with all the farmers before I left. Make sure you don’t have need of anything.”

  Thomas grinned. “Off to find yourself a wife at last?”

  Colby chuckled. “Something like that. My father’s hints are no longer subtle. He feels it’s time I settled down and found myself a wife. I fear I’ve exhausted his patience, so either I choose a wife or he’ll choose one for me.”

  “A father likes to see his sons settle, I suspect.”

  Colby nodded as Beth poured the tea. “Would you care for a sweet cake with your tea? I baked some this morning,” she said.

  “Yes, that sounds delicious. Thank you,” he said.

  Colby spent the next thirty minutes visiting with the Galens’ until their three older sons came barging into the house.

  “Mama, Richard won’t let me have a turn on the swing,” their youngest wailed. The noise woke up the baby and his cries joined those of his brother, both clamoring for their mother’s attention.

  “So nice to see you, Mr. Tisbury, but I must tend to the little one or he’ll be out of sorts for the rest of the day,” Beth said, getting up from the table.

  Colby stood. “Of course. I should be on my way as well. There are some other farmers I need to check in with before I head home. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to send word,” Colby told Thomas as he extended his hand.

  Thomas shook Colby’s hand. “Will do. Good luck in finding a wife. She’ll be one lucky girl to catch your eye.”

  “We shall see. Good day,” Colby said and walked outside. He put on his hat, mounted Diego and clicked the horse into a trot. As he traveled to the next farm, he couldn’t help but think about Thomas’ last statement. Would his future wife be the lucky one? He wasn’t looking forward to courting anyone at the moment. None of the young ladies that had been introduced in the past few seasons had managed to keep his attention for longer than a few moments. They were perfectly acceptable choices according to his father, but none offered witty conversation or stirred his blood with passion. He vowed to hold out until he found the perfect woman. Perhaps this Season would be different.

  ***

  Isabel lifted her eyes from her embroidery to steal a look at Georgette. Her sister was looking healthier these days and she was glad of it. It had been hard those first few weeks after Mr. Condiff’s death to convince her to leave her bedchamber, but each day Isabel coaxed her to the parlor and to stay up a little longer. They were finally successful in hiring a cook and a housemaid which made life easier for Isabel and allowed her to devote all her attention to Georgette. When she mentioned that they should start to practice their dancing, Georgette balked, but Isabel was relentless in her pleas and finally Georgette had no choice but to agree if she ever wanted any peace.

  “Isabel, I see you looking at me. Rest assured I am feeling quite well today and there’s no need for you to hover over me.”

  Isabel chuckled. “There will always be a need for me to hover. You are my sister and I want you to stay well. Left to your own devices, I’m not sure you would take proper care of yourself.”

  “Might I remind you that I’m the older sister? I should be the one giving orders here.”

  “My dearest sister, you may give the orders all you like, but just know that I won’t always be following them.”

  Georgette stared at her headstrong younger sister and shook her head although a smile played on her lips. “Always the bossy one.”

  “If it keeps you well, then I’m happy to take that title,” Isabel said, her violet eyes full of mischief.

  “Would you care for some tea?” Georgette asked.

  “Yes, that will be lovely. I’ll get it.”

  Georgette stood and pointed her finger at her sister. “No, you sit there. I’m perfectly capable of asking Cook for the tea.”

  Isabel wanted to object, but she knew the more tasks that Georgette did for herself, the stronger she would become. And that was her most fervent wish – for her sister to stay healthy. Georgette was her only family now, and she didn’t want to imagine life without her. Ever since the reading of Mr. Condiff’s will last year, a calm had settled over her, knowing that she was no longer alone and adrift in the world. Georgette was her anchor, and Isabel wanted her to enjoy a long and happy life.

  It didn’t take long for Georgette to come back with the tray of tea and slices of sweet cake. “See, that didn’t take long and look what Cook has baked today,” she said as she placed the tray on a nearby table. She poured the tea and handed the cup and a piece of cake to Isabel.

  Isabel put her embroidery aside. “Thank you. You understand that I only have your best interests at heart. I don’t want you to think I’m being heartless when I push you to do things on your own.”

  Georgette poured a cup of tea for herself and sat down in her father’s leather chair. “I know, Isabel, but it’s been so tiring trying to be healthy. Might we take the day off from the dancing lessons and perhaps read for the afternoon instead? It’s been a while since I’ve felt well enough to even do that.”

  Isabel watched as Georgette lovingly rubbed her hands on the worn leather chair. “Of course, we can. That sounds like a lovely way to spend an afternoon. You know I miss him too.”

  Georgette looked up with tears filling her eyes and threatening to spill down her cheeks. “I can’t believe
he’s gone. I wake up each morning thinking that I will see him when I come into the parlor. I know he wasn’t happy these last few years, but the house seems so hollow without him to fill it up with his presence.”

  Isabel nodded. “I understand. The last months have been painful, to say the least, but I can hardly believe I’m a gentleman’s daughter. It is a heady fact to digest.”

  “Speaking of that, Isabel, you must stop acting as my lady’s maid. You and I are both daughters of a fine gentleman and if you wish to find a husband deserving of you, you must learn to act the part. You are a servant no longer.”

  Isabel nodded. “I know, but it will be hard to relinquish my duties taking care of you, especially when I don’t see them as a chore in the least. It’s my pleasure to make life as comfortable for you as possible. You must know that.”

  “Indeed, I do, but all the same, you must stop fussing over me all the time. Now, do you remember the lessons the governess taught us about the proper decorum for a lady?”

  “Not really. I think I skipped out on a number of those lessons. Do you really think there’s a chance I’ll find a husband in London?”

  “Of course, why wouldn’t you? You’re beautiful and smart, and perhaps with a few lessons, the perfect young lady for any gentleman to be happy to have as his wife.

  Isabel beamed at her sister. She always knew the right things to say to make her feel loved. A husband? Wouldn’t that be something? She closed her eyes and wondered what it would be like to be kissed, really kissed by a man. The only man she’d been around for most of her life was Mr. Condiff, and half the time, he had ignored her.

  “Isabel, are you listening?”

  Isabel’s eyes popped open and she felt a blush rise up her neck. “Sorry, I was merely thinking about the possibility of attracting a husband.”

  Georgette nodded. “I understand, but please pay attention. A lady’s most important accessory is her fan. Use it to give yourself a few moments to think of an appropriate response should a gentlemen comes over and speaks with you. It would not do well for you to blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.”

  “Are you saying I’m too bold?”

  “Maybe a little,” Georgette said with a slight smile.

  Isabel stood and placed her teacup on the tray and hurried up the stairs. “I’ll be right back,” she said over her shoulder.

  When Isabel came back into the parlor with a white lace fan, she saw her sister was frowning.

  “Isabel, what are you doing?”

  “I’m following your advice. Shall I practice for you?”

  Georgette couldn’t help but smile. “Yes.”

  Isabel set out to practice every scenario she could think of. “Miss Knott, it is a pleasure to meet you,” she said in her best imitation of a low, manly voice. Fanning herself, she batted her eyes and replied, “Thank you, sir. And who are you again? I’m so busy fanning myself that I’ve completely forgotten your name.”

  Her sister’s laughter filled the front parlor. “Isabel, you’re shameless.”

  “I know. Shall I demonstrate more?”

  Before Georgette could answer, Isabel played out scene after scene entertaining her. She was laughing so much that tears rolled down her cheeks. “Stop, you must stop. I can’t breathe anymore,” Georgette begged.

  Isabel skipped to the sofa and threw herself down in a fit of giggles. “It’s so good to hear you laugh,” she said when she regained control.

  Georgette swiped at the tears on her cheeks. “Yes, it is. Thank you for that.”

  “It’s my pleasure, but rest assured, I will heed your advice. I just couldn’t help myself today,” Isabel said.

  “I know. I especially liked your low, gravelly voice. I do hope that no gentleman has a voice like that or I won’t be able to contain my laughter when I meet him.”

  “Do you think it will be much longer before we hear from Mrs. Quinn? It’s been nearly three weeks since you sent your letter inquiring about a trip to London.”

  “I don’t know. Perhaps she’s been busy, or possibly moved?”

  “We would have such fun in London, don’t you think?” Isabel asked, retrieving her tea and taking a sip.

  “I do, but we’ll have to be patient. We cannot arrive in London with no one to host us. It would not be proper, and we’d have no chance of meeting any gentlemen.”

  “I suppose you’re right. Proper introductions are essential.”

  As if on cue, there was a knock on the door. The housemaid hurried to open the heavy oak door. “May I help you?”

  A young man stood holding out a letter. “Delivery for Ms. Georgette Condiff,” he said.

  The maid took the letter. “Thank you. I’ll see that she gets it.”

  The young man nodded and she closed the door. She hurried back to the parlor. “Miss Condiff, this came for you.”

  Georgette took the letter. “Thank you, Bethany.”

  “Will there be anything else?”

  “No, we’re fine for now.”

  The housemaid nodded and left the room.

  “Isabel, this could be the reply we’ve been waiting for.” Georgette sliced open the seal and began to read.

  My dearest Miss Condiff,

  I was truly saddened to learn of your father’s passing. He and I were great friends when he lived in London and I missed him terribly when he retired to Essex. I extend my deepest sympathies for your loss.

  Regarding the matter of a visit to London, it would be my pleasure to host you and your cousin for the Season. Please come at your earliest convenience. I have notified my modiste (the best in London if I do say so myself) of the need for new gowns for both of you. Mr. Ingham has already made ample funds available for whatever you shall need.

  I am so looking forward to seeing you again, as I have not laid eyes on you since you were a toddler. My home is your home for as long as you’d like to stay in London.

  My very best,

  Mrs. Iris Quinn

  Isabel jumped off the sofa and squealed in delight. “Oh my, we’re going to London. How exciting. Don’t you agree?”

  “Indeed I do. Mr. Ingham was quite speedy with the funds. I merely mentioned to him the possibility of us going to London. It would appear that he has already been in touch with Mrs. Quinn.”

  “I shall go upstairs and start packing at once,” Isabel said.

  “Isabel, dearest, wait. We will have plenty of time for that. First, we must make arrangements for a carriage. I shall write to Mr. Ingham and ask his advice.”

  “Can you pen the letter now? I can deliver it to his office before it gets dark,” Isabel said.

  “I’m don’t think that’s a good idea. It unsettles me when you walk alone so late in the day. Let’s say we both deliver it tomorrow morning when I’m feeling more refreshed.”

  Isabel tried to hide the disappointment from her face. She wanted more than anything to go to London. She’d spent her whole life here in this village as Georgette’s servant and desired a change. She hadn’t minded her status, but ever since reading her father’s letter, she wondered how different her life could have been if she had been raised not as a servant, but as Georgette’s sister or even her distant cousin. She was aching for new adventures as a proper young lady, but she knew that it might be too much for Georgette today. “Of course, that will be fine. Why don’t you write to Mr. Ingham and I’ll ask cook to start dinner.”

  Georgette nodded. “That sounds perfect.”

  ***

  The next day the two young women set out in mid-morning to walk to Mr. Ingham’s office in the village. The last time they were there, Georgette barely had enough energy to sit through the reading of her father’s assets. Today she walked along without effort. Isabel had done her hair in a bun at the nape of her neck. It shined with golden highlights. Even the gauntness in her face was gone. Her cheeks had a healthy glow and her hazel eyes were bright. She walked with purpose beside Isabel.

  “It’s such a lovely
day for a walk, don’t you think, Isabel?”

  Isabel nodded and linked her arm with her sister’s. “Indeed it is. It gladdens my heart to see you so well today.”

  Georgette smiled and it reached her eyes “Thanks to my bossy sister, I have regained my health. I forgot how good it felt to enjoy the sunlight.”

  “Don’t think I will let up once we reach London,” Isabel said with a chuckle.

  Georgette squeezed her hand. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

  “Ladies, may I be of assistance?” came a deep voice behind them.

  They turned around to find Mr. Ingham walking behind them.

  “Mr. Ingham, we were on our way to your office. I hope this is a good time,” Georgette said.

  Mr. Ingham tipped his hat to them. “I would be delighted. Please let me escort you,” he said, while offering an arm to each young lady.

  “Thank you. That is so very kind of you,” Georgette said, placing her hand on his proffered arm.

  The trio arrived at the solicitor’s office within a few moments. Mr. Ingham held the door open for them. “Ladies, please come in and have a seat. May I offer you some tea?”

  Georgette shook her head. “Thank you, no. We won’t be staying long.”

  Mr. Ingham took off his hat and went around to sit at his desk. “What brings you ladies to my office today?”

  Georgette reached inside her reticule and pulled out the letter. “I didn’t know if you’d be here today so I wrote you a letter. Isabel and I have heard from Mrs. Quinn. She has graciously agreed to host us for the Season in London.”

  “Yes, I’ve had correspondence with Mrs. Quinn. She wrote to me to inform me of her decision and to secure funds for your use.”

  “That was very kind of you, Mr. Ingham,” Isabel said. “May we ask that you arrange for a carriage to London?”

  Mr. Ingham nodded. “Yes, of course. When were you planning to leave?”

  “We’d like to leave as soon as possible. Will that be a problem?” Isabel asked.