Chapter Twenty
A flurry of activity spun around Amelia. Today Conrad and his mother were coming for a visit. Her stomach twisted in knots. She’d met her future mother-in-law so she knew how disagreeable she could be. But her own mother might be even worse. How would they get through having tea with both of them without someone doing someone else serious bodily harm?
A kitchen maid whisked by her with a tray holding several different types of tarts. How many people did her mother think they would be serving? Another maid carried a huge pot of steaming tea. If they consumed its contents, they’d float away as if on the Thames.
“Amelia, you’re not wearing that, are you?”
She glanced down at her new dress. The one she’d had specially made for today. “Yes… I was thinking that—”
Her mother squelched any further words to her response. It was amazing what the woman could do with a frown and lowered bushy eyebrows.
Amelia turned and headed back to her bedroom to change. She knew what her mother wanted her to wear… that outlandish bright green dress that along with her red hair made everyone wish for Christmas. But if she didn’t wear that, Mother would have an apoplectic fit.
Today would not be a good day for one of those. Not that any day was.
When she reached her room, Annie was there. What did she want?
The maid, her face red and angry, practically seethed, chest heaving, boot tapping against the wooden planks of the floor.
What now…? “Something amiss, Annie?”
“Why yes, as a matter of fact.”
Sorry I asked. “And that would be…?”
“I’ve been told by one of the grooms that you had an outing yesterday.”
“Alert the news. It’s a miracle.” She stepped to her closet and drew out the ugly dress of her mother’s choosing. It was Annie’s job to do that, but Amelia hadn’t the time to wait for her to finish her tirade before dressing.
“What I’ve heard is that you had someone else, a stranger, along as your chaperone.”
Ah… so that was it. “Yes.”
“So you don’t deny it?”
She turned sharply. “Annie, I’ll thank you to watch your tone. Sometimes I think you forget your place.”
Annie had the decency to look chagrined. For about three seconds. “Who was the girl?” She at least fetched the shoes that matched the gown while she pouted.
“Not that it’s any of your concern, but she is a… friend of Lord Lofton’s.”
Annie’s eyebrows rose to her hairline. “Oh? A friend?”
Amelia groaned inwardly. I’ve done it now. Who knows what kind of drivel the irritable maid will spread now. “Yes. A friend.” She turned her back. “Kindly unbutton me. I’ve guests coming soon.”
Rough hands undid the buttons, tugging harder than was necessary.
“Leave the buttons intact, Annie. I do plan to wear the dress again at some point.”
Her maid harrumphed.
Why is she the one that Mother insists I must use? But then she brightened. Soon, though, very soon, I won’t have to deal with her any longer. I won’t live here. I’ll be Lady Lofton. Amelia chuckled.
“Something amusing, Miss Talbot?”
“Yes.”
Annie’s hands paused over the buttons. Amelia could guess the other woman desired to know what caused Amelia’s change in mood.
Amelia shook her head but said nothing further. Too bad for you, dear Annie. You’ll have to stew on it because I won’t be sharing my happy thought with you.
Once dressed, she winced at her reflection in the looking glass. Hopefully her appearance in the horrid thing wouldn’t cause Conrad to turn tail and run. Though she couldn’t blame him. For the dress or…
She wished just for one day she could forget about how their betrothal had come about. When she’d first come up with the scheme, she hadn’t really known Conrad. She’d met him, but hadn’t spoken to him much beyond polite platitudes.
Since spending time with him, though, something had taken control of her heart. I never expected that. Was just desperate for a way out of marriage to a wrinkled old goat. But Conrad’s eyes had drawn her in. And when she’d kissed him… Scandalous, yes. But she’d thought it necessary at the time to fully secure their future union. She’d needed the further excuse of kissing him in hopes that Annie would tattle to Amelia’s parents. And she had.
That kiss… Her lips warmed at the thought of the searing heat that had raced though her body all the way to her slipper-covered toes.
How could physical contact with someone you barely knew make such an impact?
Instant attraction. She’d heard of it before but had never believed it truly possible. Well it was.
And it’s happened to me.
She left her room, leaving Annie gaping at her. Let her wonder at my amusement. It will give her something to do, since she doesn’t seem to do much else around here.
As she descended the stairs, her good humor fled. Mother was yelling at the butler in her nasal whine. Something about a stain on the settee.
That stain, a tiny almost imperceptible speck, had been there for years, a product of a drop of spilled red wine that no one had noticed at first. And when they did, that stain was set and could not be removed.
Mother was the only one who ever even noticed it. Amelia had had to lean down very close to the fabric and squint to even make it out.
She sighed. Was this the way the visit with Conrad and his mother would go? Probably.
Getting their two maternal figures together might not have been such a great idea.
She reached the bottom of the stairs and stopped. One of the downstairs maids rushed by her in tears.
But isn’t that how she treated Annie? Amelia frowned. But she deserved it. She’s so mean and the other servants are at least cordial. A tiny speck of guilt nagged at her but she pushed it away. No time to dwell on it now. Our guests will soon arrive.
A knock came from the front door. The butler passed by Amelia and headed in that direction.
They’re here! She pressed her hand against her middle. Stay calm, Amelia.
Her mother emerged from the parlor, perfectly coifed and dressed. “There you are. And don’t you look divine?”
Amelia glanced down and inwardly winced. She took care not to let her feelings show on her face. That would only incite her mother’s further irritation and now was not the time for that.
As she stepped to the parlor to stand with her mother, Amelia glanced around. Everything seemed in order. But then of course it would be. That was what her mother was good at. Yelling at the servants until perfection was achieved.
Poor people. But you don’t feel any remorse toward treating Annie the same way. She again pushed aside the thought. That’s different. She’s spiteful and mean.
The butler reached the door and opened it, welcoming their guests.
Conrad handed the butler his hat and then looked up.
Must be his third favorite hat, since the red squirrel now owned one and the elephant had drooled on the other.
His gaze connected with hers and he smiled. He tilted his head slightly toward his mother and raised his eyebrows.
Ah yes, I agree. Mothers can be so trying. With a nearly imperceptible nod, she smiled back and darted a glance toward her own mother.
Conrad gave a wink. Wink?
She bit her lip, suddenly overcome with mirth. Oh dear, if this is to be the flavor of the visit, I’m not sure I can hold in my laughter.
Amelia’s mother took Amelia’s hand and tugged her to their guests. The four stood face to face, eye to eye. But no one spoke.
Boots tapped and sighs were heaved. Why wasn’t Mother saying anything? Was she waiting for their guests to speak first?
Fine. Then I will take the lead.
Amelia curtseyed to Conrad and his mother. “Lord Lofton, Lady Lofton, how pleasant to see you today.”
Conrad’s mother grimaced. Wonderful. So
that’s how it would be, then.
Conrad nodded his head. “And you as well, Miss Talbot. Mrs. Talbot, lovely to see you again.”
“Welcome to our home.”
Lady Lofton mumbled something that sounded like tripe, but Amelia couldn’t be sure. Judging from Conrad’s sharp intake of breath, however, proved it to be something not very kind.
The butler stood in the doorway to the parlor. “Tea is served, Mrs. Talbot.”
She nodded once, a short, jerky movement, and followed the butler into the nearby room.
Conrad waited until all of the ladies were seated before sitting down next to his mother.
How I wish it were just he and I, alone… A memory of them that first evening when she’d invited him to her small gathering floated through her mind. Her tight, low-cut dress. Strawberries and cream.
That kiss. Oh my.
Her mother looked at her and frowned. “Amelia, you’ve a flush.”
She grabbed her handkerchief from her sleeve and waved it in front of her face. “Have I?”
Conrad’s expression was one of amusement. Left eyebrow raised. Right side only of his mouth turned up. Was he remembering the same?
A maid served them tea and tarts and then stood in the corner to await further instruction. Amelia was glad it wasn’t Annie. That maid’s reaction might have been to throw the tarts at them and pour tea in their laps.
No one reached for their tea. No one nibbled even a bite of their tart. What now? Should she say something? Do something?
It being the first and only time she’d entertained a betrothed at her home, she knew not how to begin.
Her mother saved her the trouble. She leaned forward and glared at Conrad’s mother. What was she doing? She’d never even met the woman. Of course I know how disagreeable Lady Lofton is, but she doesn’t.
Could it possibly be a case of recognizing a nasty kindred spirit?
Lady Lofton leaned forward as well. Saints be praised, the two matriarchs weren’t alone in the room. Amelia wasn’t sure who would emerge the victor. Or even alive.
Conrad tapped his mother’s arm to gain her attention. “Mother…”
She didn’t pay him any attention.
He tapped harder. “Mother.”
She turned her head. “What?”
“Perhaps you and Mrs. Talbot could discuss something pleasant, such as…” He shrugged. “The… wedding?”
Amelia’s heart leapt. That was the first time he’d actually mentioned it. The wedding. Their wedding. The event that would change their lives forever.
Lady Lofton shrugged. “I suppose.” She looked at Amelia’s mother. “What do you think?”
“About what?”
“About discussing… the wedding.”
“It’s already planned.”
Amelia’s jaw dropped open. “It is?”
Her mother glared. “It is.”
Conrad heaved a sigh. “Very well, then. How about we discuss something else?”
His mother frowned. “Such as?”
“The…” He glanced at Amelia.
Poor man. At least he was trying. She added, “The… weather?”
Lady Lofton scowled. “What’s so interesting about the weather? It happens every day. And it’s outside. And it can stay there.”
This isn’t going well. Not in the least. Amelia picked up her tea and took a sip. Still too hot. She set down the cup and swallowed, and then placed her napkin over her mouth. If she made too much of a fuss, it would only give her mother something else to complain about. Her eyes watered and she swallowed again.
Conrad nodded at her as he picked up his own cup, as if thanking her for the suggestion of drinking the tea in lieu of starting another maternal argument.
No no no! I didn’t mean for you to — Oh this would be… She held out her hands to get his attention, but it was too late.
His eyes grew large and he choked. His set his cup down on the table beside him with a clatter.
Amelia’s mother leaned in close. “What’s this? Is your betrothed so uncouth that he doesn’t even know the proper etiquette for drinking tea?”
Lady Lofton huffed out a loud breath. “Now see here, my son most certainly does know how to drink tea. He’s been drinking since he… well he’s been drinking it his whole life. How dare you…”
The argument continued but Amelia had stopped listening. She jumped from her seat and crossed the room. Reaching out her hand, she stroked Conrad’s cheek, which had turned bright red. “Are you all right?”
Tears streamed from his eyes, but he nodded.
“Can I get you anything?”
“N-no. Thank you.” He sputtered another cough.
“I’m so sorry. I found it was too hot but didn’t want to cause a stir with…” She darted a glance at her mother. “But I should have let you know somehow so you didn’t burn your…” She lowered her gaze to his lips. “Mouth.”
He leaned forward, into her hand that was still stroking his face. “Amelia…”
“What on earth are you doing to my son?” Lady Lofton’s screech was surely audible to the next county.
Oh… no… Amelia snapped her hand to her side and scurried back to her own seat. Eyes downcast, she didn’t dare look at her mother. But that didn’t stop her from berating Amelia.
“How despicable. To act in such a way… And in front of me. And his mother. Really, Amelia!”
She nodded, but couldn’t respond. Her fingers tightened into fists on her lap.
Lady Lofton sniffed. “I can see now why you had trouble finding a man to marry you, Miss Talbot.”
Mrs. Talbot gasped. “I beg your pardon? Your son is very fortunate to have snagged my daughter.”
“Snagged?” She wagged her finger under the other mother’s nose. “I’ll have you know that my son was coerced into—”
Oh dear. “Uh… Mother… Lady Lofton, perhaps we’ve gotten a bit off the subject here.”
Conrad nodded. “Yes, Amelia is right. Let’s… discuss something else. Anything else.”
The four sat silent, again. Amelia scoured her mind for something benign to discuss, but all she could think about was touching Conrad’s face. And how she’d like to do it again. Now.
Just say something Amelia. Anything… “Um, Mother, how have you been feeling?”
“I beg your pardon?”
“You know… your gums…” Maybe that wasn’t the best thing to bring up. But I’m running out of ideas.
“Amelia, I hardly think this is the time or place…” She glanced at Lady Lofton and shrugged. Did she also not want another argument?
Doubtful.
Still, she continued along the thought. “Yes, well… They’re still feeling dreadful. That surgeon-dentist Mr. Fletcher doesn’t know the difference between my mouth and that of a hedgehog. I think he’s a quack.”
Conrad gasped and coughed. Was he still suffering the effects of the tea? Or was it from what her mother had said. But why would talk of the surgeon-dentist upset him? Was he perhaps upset on Cecilia’s behalf because they spoke of her father?
No Amelia, don’t dwell on their relationship. You promised Conrad you would trust him.
Lady Lofton grabbed her fan from her reticule and swung it to and fro in front of her suddenly perspiring face. “I… That is…”
“Yes… Mother… my thoughts as well.”
Amelia raised both eyebrows. What was going on?
Chapter Twenty-one
Conrad groaned. Yet another outdoor outing. Did Amelia never tire of them? I may as well grow accustomed to them if I wish to spend time with her after we’re wed. He glanced to his left where she walked beside him, holding his arm tight against her breast.
His breath quickened. But I’m fairly sure I will never grow tired of that. Her hair glinted in the sun, which shone brightly for a change. And her eyes, the color of emeralds, always seemed to hold some sort of fascinating secret. One Conrad was certain he wanted to know. Had to know
.
Amelia looked behind them. “Come along, Cecilia. You needn’t walk behind us.”
Cecilia blushed, which seemed to come as easily to her as Conrad. “Oh… I thought perhaps you and Lord Lofton would like…” The hue on her cheeks deepened.
With a laugh, Amelia reached back and took Cecilia’s hand, drawing her even with them. “You’re here as our friend.” She leaned toward the younger girl and winked. “But if we do require a few moments of privacy, you’ll not need to ask if that’s the case. I’m sure it will be quite obvious.”
Conrad gasped. Cecilia had done the same. Good heavens, his wife-to-be wasn’t shy.
Amelia tugged on Conrad and Cecilia at the same time. “Let’s go over and see the rose gardens, shall we?” Conrad stumbled. Thankfully, Cecilia did not. Perhaps his sister was more graceful than he.
But then, she’d have to be, as he seemed to have the talent for tripping over air.
A huge area was planted with row after row of roses in yellow, pink, white and red. As they neared the flowers, Conrad sneezed. He sighed and grabbed his handkerchief.
“Bless you.” Amelia smiled. She turned to Cecilia. “I love all of the roses, but my favorites are the—”
A tickle attacked Conrad’s nose and he sneezed again.
“Goodness.” Amelia lowered her eyebrows. “Are you feeling ill?”
He shook his head. “No. I’m f-f-f—” An even louder sneeze erupted, nearly stealing his breath.
Cecilia pointed at a grove of trees a few yards away. “Perhaps we could rest on the bench?”
“Th-thank you I—” A sneeze to rival a boom of thunder overtook him. He bent at the waist, gasping as the sensation bounced around in his chest.
“Come along, dear.” Amelia grabbed his arm tightly and pulled. With her usual lack of gentleness and the fact that he had his handkerchief covering nearly his whole head, his feet tangled with hers.
Down they went.
Conrad peered up at Amelia, who peered right back at him, as she was lying on his chest.
Cecilia crept up beside them. “Would this happen to be one of those… times for… privacy?”
A sigh escaped Amelia’s lips. Lips that under better circumstances he would indeed like to kiss. “No, that’s all right. I accidentally tripped Conrad and we’ve ended up quite close to the lawn.”
Love Birds: The Complete Collection Page 29
