I'll Always Love You

by Ella Quinn

  When Louisa closed her eyes, Lucinda quickly said, “I do not mind at all. It is not as if there is a gentleman I wish to dance with.” The image of Lord Elliott on horseback floated through her mind. “I would be perfectly happy for one of Rothwell’s friends to ask me.”

  “Aside from that, my love.” Rothwell captured his wife’s hand. “You cannot tell me that Worthington did not help you on occasion.”

  A slow blush rose in Louisa’s cheeks. “No, I cannot. Very well. Arrange for Lucinda to be asked to waltz. I am going to look in on our daughter.” Rising from the table, she glanced at the dog. “Come, Athena. The torture by water will be over now.”

  Once her sister-in-law left the room, Rothwell bussed Lucinda’s cheek. “I shall probably ask Featherton. We do not want to abuse Elliott’s kindness. Especially as he is taking you out this afternoon.”

  Lucinda pulled over the rest of the newssheet as she tucked into her breakfast. Was Lord Elliott only taking an interest in her because of his friendship with her brother, or could he actually like her for herself? Before her interest grew, she would have to find out. The only question was how should she go about it?

  * * * *

  Gerald found himself grinning at the prospect of taking Lady Lucinda out that afternoon. Not that he was interested in her as a prospective mate. Although, she did have an excellent seat. One of the best he’d seen on a female. And he enjoyed listening to her lyrical voice. It was like hearing a melody.

  He gave himself a shake. No, no. His only role was to assist Rothwell in keeping an eye on her. Helping him would serve Gerald as well. Attending the same events as Lady Lucinda would give him the opportunity to look over the ladies and choose a wife. It wasn’t as if he’d spend all his time looking after Lady Lucinda.

  His duties would begin with the Promenade. Would she be impressed, or think it a great waste of time? Then again, she could be nervous. In that case, he’d be there to assist in becoming familiar with the ton. All in all, it should be an interesting occasion.

  Just as he had finished tying his cravat, his valet, Rouse, brought in a missive. “It is from her ladyship, my lord.”

  The only “her ladyship” was his mother. “Very well.”

  He plucked the letter from the tray, opened it, and sighed. “I am to escort her to Almack’s next Wednesday.”

  “Very good, my lord. I shall enter it into your diary.” Rouse bowed and began picking up discarded neck cloths.

  “Thank you.” There was no being late to Almack’s. They’d lock one out.

  At least it wouldn’t be a complete waste of time this year. After all, it was the prime place to look for a spouse. Gerald had no doubt Lady Louisa would be there. Thus enabling him to, as the saying went, kill two birds with one stone.

  The rest of the day he attended to estate business and had a meeting with one of his committees for the House of Lords. When he arrived at Rothwell House, he was pleasantly surprised not to be kept waiting.

  Lady Lucinda descended the steps as Gerald was admitted to the hall. “Good afternoon, my lady.”

  She glanced up from pulling on a light, tawny-brown leather glove. Her jonquille yellow carriage gown, topped by a paisley spencer in spring colors, hugged her bosom. For a moment, he had trouble dragging his gaze upward. She wore a high-peaked hat lined with cream-colored silk. The whole effect made what he could see of her brown hair richer than before. Her green eyes reminded him of the color of new leaves. And there was an energy in her that had not been there before. It was as if she had emerged from a cocoon.

  How had he not noticed how beautiful she was before? If she wished, she could do much better than Quorndon.

  Lady Lucinda reached the bottom step, and Gerald offered her his arm. “Shall we depart?”

  The hand she placed on his arm was as light as a feather. Then she smiled so brightly he had to blink. If that was the look she gave gentlemen, he and her brother would have their work cut out for them. “Yes, I believe we should.”

  They had no sooner reached the pavement when she stopped, almost jerking him to a halt. Dropping her arm, she made her way from the side of his phaeton to his horses. “What a beautiful carriage, and your horses! They look perfectly matched.” Standing in front of the pair, she rubbed their noses. “I wish I had a carrot or an apple to give them.”

  “I keep apples in the carriage, if you would like to reward them when we return.”

  Eyes sparkling, she glanced at him. “Yes, indeed.” She turned back to the horses. “You are such handsome gentlemen.” The dammed beasts actually puffed out their chests for her, and he found himself feeling a bit left out. “I shall give you something later.” She strode back to him and grinned. “I like your carriage as well. Maroon is one of my favorite colors, and the gold piping sets it off nicely.” She slowly walked to the back of the carriage, nodded, then glanced at him. “Now, my lord, I am ready to see what awaits us at the Park.”

  He felt like preening. She was definitely not nervous. He pulled down the steps and handed her up. “I look forward to hearing your opinion.”

  Even though the Season did not start in earnest until after Easter next week, Polite Society was out in force. A glossy display of carriages, from sporting vehicles to landaus, filled the carriageway. Young gentlemen on horses walked beside some of the carriages, while others led their horses to stroll beside young ladies in an array of pale muslin gowns and fashionable hats.

  After threading his phaeton into the carriageway, he settled the horses down to a slow walk. A little distance down the path, a bright yellow landau had pulled to the verge. “I think you will shortly meet Lady Jersey.”

  Lady Lucinda’s eyes widened. “The one who is called ‘Silence’?”

  “The very one, but do not repeat that to her. It is not meant as a compliment. She’s also one of the Patronesses of Almack’s.”

  She tilted her head slightly to one side. “Yes, I believe either my mother or sister-in-law mentioned that.” Lady Lucinda straightened her shoulders and assumed a more demure look. Still, her eyes sparkled with joy. “I shall be on my best behavior.”

  Gerald wanted to laugh out loud. The rider who had stopped at Lady Jersey’s carriage moved on. He pulled up and inclined his head. “Good afternoon, my lady.”

  “Indeed it is, Elliott.” The sound of the voice answering almost made him wince, as his mother gazed at him from the other side of Lady Jersey. “Mother, I didn’t see you.”

  “You see, I said this bonnet was too large.” As Lady Jersey glanced from him to Lady Lucinda, her brows rose slightly. “My lord, good afternoon to you. I trust I will see you on Wednesday.”

  “You will, my lady. I would not miss an evening at Almack’s.” When her ladyship’s eyes focused on Lady Lucinda, he said, “Lady Jersey, Mother, may I introduce you to Lady Lucinda Hughlot, Rothwell’s sister.”

  “A pleasure to meet you, my lady.” Lady Jersey smiled reassuringly. “I look forward to seeing you on Wednesday as well.”

  “Thank you, ma’am.” Lady Lucinda gave her ladyship a polite smile. “I also look forward to Wednesday.”

  “Lady Lucinda.” His mother’s tight smile did not bode well for him. Whatever was amiss, he’d hear about it soon. “A pleasure.”

  “Thank you, ma’am,” Lady Lucinda replied evenly.

  Either he was too much attuned to his mother’s moods, or she had a good deal more countenance than most young ladies he’d met. “Well, then. We shall be on our way.” He inclined his head again. “My lady, Mother, have a pleasant outing.”

  A few moments later, the Earl of Huntley and Viscount Wivenly, two friends of his and Rothwell’s, rode up, demanding an introduction.

  “Lady Lucinda, I am devastated that I did not meet you before Elliott.” Wivenly, a confirmed rogue, bowed. “It is entirely unfair that I should not be the first gentleman to tool you aroun
d.”

  She grinned and held out her hand. “But how did you know it is my first time in the Park?”

  Taking her fingers, he kissed the air above her hand. “I make a point of always noticing the most beautiful ladies, and I have not seen you before. Ergo, it is your first time.”

  Gerald wanted snatch her hand back and tell Wivenly to move on when Lady Lucinda said, “Will I see you at Almack’s next week?”

  “Ah, no.” Most of the color drained from Wivenly’s face, and Gerald barked a laugh. “I do not attend Almack’s.”

  “Why not?” Lady Lucinda asked.

  The man’s mouth opened and closed, but he was unable to speak.

  “Wivenly is avoiding the Marriage Mart until he is a little older,” Huntley replied.

  A faint line formed between her eyes. “I do not understand. If you are friends of my brother, you must be around the same age.”

  “A direct hit.” Huntley laughed, and Gerald took perverse enjoyment in seeing Wivenly squirm. “But not in his mind, dear lady.” Huntley executed a short bow. “Allow me to take him off before he swoons from fright. Delightful meeting you, my lady. I hope you enjoy your Season. Elliott, see you around.”

  Once they’d ridden away, she turned to Gerald. “Why does Lord Wivenly not wish to wed? My brother has been much happier since he married.”

  “Some gentlemen mature much more slowly than others.” Or, in Wivenly’s case, were unwilling to give up whoring. Huntley was more stable, but still marriage shy. “When he does get around to marrying, I pity his wife.” She opened her mouth and Gerald rushed on. “And no, I am not going to explain the reason.”

  “That,” she said sternly, “is one of the reasons I wish to wed. No one explains anything to single ladies.”

  “I have no doubt you will achieve your goal.” But not to Quorndon, or Huntley, or any other gentleman Gerald knew.

  He’d have to keep a close eye on her to ensure no unsuitable gentleman came near her.

  In an attempt to avoid any summons his mother intended to send, Gerald decided to dine at Brooks. When he entered the dining room, he was surprised to see most of married friends.

  He shook hands with Rothwell and nodded to Merton, who had married Miss Dorothea Stern, and to Kenilworth, who had wed Lady Charlotte Carpenter. “Where is Worthington?”

  “He’s with his wife and children,” Rothwell grumbled.

  “I thought you’d be with your wives as well.” Gerald didn’t understand. Had they all had arguments with their ladies?

  “Lady Bellamny’s party for young ladies is this evening,” Kenilworth informed Gerald. “Our wives are there to show support for Lady Lucinda.”

  “Gentlemen are not allowed until it is time to fetch our ladies,” Merton added.

  “Not exactly correct.” Kenilworth sipped his claret. “We are allowed entrance toward the end of supper.”

  Supper? A vague memory concerning Worthington, his wife, and Lady Bellamny came to Gerald. “Is that not where Worthington met his wife?”

  “I believe it might have been,” Merton said. “They married shortly thereafter.”

  “If you’re all going there, do you mind if I accompany you?” It appeared as if Rothwell was more interested in finding his wife than protecting his sister. Once the gentlemen arrived, Gerald wanted to make sure Lady Lucinda did not meet anyone she should. Naturally, Worthington had not been in any way unsuitable, but one never knew who had a sister coming out.

  “Not at all.” Rothwell motioned to a chair. “Have a seat. I’ll tell the servant to order another beefsteak.”

  CHAPTER SIX

  Later that evening, Mama and Louisa accompanied Lucinda to Lady Bellamny’s elegant town house near St. James Square.

  After greeting Louisa warmly, Lady Bellamny, a plump lady swathed in a purple gown, with gold feathers in her hair, leaned forward and kissed Mama on her cheek. “Madeline, I am so happy to see you in Town. It has been far too long.”

  Lucinda had to keep her jaw from dropping. She had never heard anyone speak to her mother with such familiarity. Despite Mama’s misgivings, she had friends here that she did not have at home.

  “Thank you, Almeria. I have missed you as well.” Mama smiled happily, making Lucinda blink. “Perhaps I shall spend more time in Town.” Mama drew Lucinda forward. “Almeria, this is my eldest daughter, Lady Lucinda. Lucinda, please meet an old and dear friend, Lady Bellamny.”

  Lucinda curtseyed. “My lady. It is a pleasure to meet you.”

  For a moment, she felt as if she were being inspected, then her ladyship nodded. “You’ll do well. Not a diamond of the first water, but very pretty and unaffected.”

  Pasting a polite smile on her lips, she said, “Thank you, my lady.”

  “And intelligent.” Lady Bellamny’s feathers waved as she nodded again. “No girl likes to hear that she is not the most beautiful lady of the Season, but you’ll be better for it.”

  Louisa took Lucinda’s arm. “Come, you should meet some of the other ladies.”

  Once they were out of Lady Bellamny’s hearing, and she was greeting a new arrival, Lucinda asked, “Is she always like that?”

  “If you mean straight to the point, even if you do not wish to hear what she has to say?” Lucinda inclined her head. “Yes. She told me being beautiful was as much a curse as a blessing.”

  That was hard to believe. “Was she right?”

  Louisa tilted her head to one side, and her eyes narrowed slightly. “Yes. There are too many gentlemen who fail to look beyond a pleasing face and form.” With her dark hair and lapis-blue eyes, Louisa must have been one of the most beautiful ladies of last Season. “I will tell you one thing I have observed. When you find the right gentleman, he will believe you are the most beautiful woman in the world.”

  That did not make any sense at all. One’s looks did not change. “How do you know?”

  Louisa smiled. “I have seen the way a man in love looks at his lady. Even when others have decided she is only passably pretty, she will be beautiful to him.”

  “Your grace?” a fashionably dressed lady with blond hair addressed Louisa.

  “Lady St. Claire.” Louisa smiled, holding out her hands. “How are you this evening?”

  “Quite well.” The lady took Louisa’s hands, leaned forward, and kissed her cheek. “I wish to introduce my niece, Miss Marlow. She is my brother’s daughter. I am sponsoring her this Season.”

  Louisa introduced Lucinda. After she greeted Lady St. Claire, Lucinda held out her hand to Miss Marlow. She was one of the most perfectly featured ladies she had ever seen. Glossy, golden curls framed her oval face. Her eyes were cornflower blue, and the faintest of blushes colored her perfect complexion. She looked almost like a porcelain doll.

  An image came into Lucinda’s mind of Miss Marlow and Lord Quorndon as figurines placed side by side on a fireplace mantel or in a highly polished cabinet.

  Could it be that she was the answer to Lucinda’s problem with his lordship? Indeed, as fastidious as the man was about his clothing and person, Lucinda could imagine he would like a wife whose looks complemented him.

  She could not have stopped the smile from forming on her lips if she had wanted to. “I am very pleased to meet you, Miss Marlow.”

  “Thank you,” the lady replied. “I am happy to meet you. I think coming to know other young ladies will be of help to us all.” Lucinda could not agree more. Miss Marlow glanced at her mother and Louisa. “Would you mind if I take Lady Lucinda to meet some of the other ladies?”

  “Not at all,” her sister-in-law responded. “That is, after all, the purpose of the soirée.”

  Miss Marlow introduced Lucinda to Lady Alice Wexford, the daughter of the Marquis of Grantham. Lady Alice was above average height with a serious demeanor.

  Holding out her hand, Lucinda smiled. �
�It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Alice.”

  “And you as well, Lady Lucinda.” Lady Alice glanced around the room and sighed. “Is this your first time in Town?”

  “Yes. I was to have come out last year, but we were in mourning for my father.” Lucinda held her breath, waiting to see if the other lady would comment on her father.

  Instead, a sympathetic look entered her gray eyes. “I am sorry for your loss. Did you wish for a Season?”

  That was an odd question. Did not every young lady want a London Season? “I have been looking forward to it for a few years now.”

  “Oh.” Lady Alice looked at a loss for words. Then she leaned closer. “I did not want one at all. I would have been happier to have remained in Lincolnshire with my books and attended the local assemblies. I am only here to please my father.”

  “Perhaps you will have a better time than you think.” Lucinda made a mental note to invite Lady Alice to go walking or for tea.

  Miss Marlow once again took Lucinda’s arm. “Please excuse us, my lady. I have promised to introduce Lady Lucinda to some other ladies I have recently met. Shall I see you next week at Almack’s?”

  “My mother received the vouchers yesterday.” Lady Alice imparted the news with so much dread that Lucinda almost put her arms around the lady to comfort her.

  “I am positive everything will be fine.” As Lucinda patted the young woman’s shoulder, she caught Miss Marlow struggling not to grin. “We shall see each other after Easter.”

  Next, Lucinda met Miss Tice and her good friend Miss Martindale. The two ladies had been friends since infancy and appeared to be inseparable.

  “We have decided,” Miss Tice said, “that we must find husbands whose estates run together.”

  Miss Martindale nodded vigorously. “That way, we will not be forced to live far from each other.”

  “I wish you luck.” Lucinda exchanged a look with Miss Marlow, whose lips were twitching so much she had to put her hand over her mouth. Had they pored over Debrett’s and a map of England to make a list?