Will wonders ever cease?
Word has it that Lady Man-Eater can pour a cup of tea without spilling.
Amazing that it’s a fait accompli for most ten-year-olds.
Respectfully yours,
The Midnight Cryer
Later that afternoon, Thea poured the first cup of tea without incident. With a deep but silent sigh of relief, she gently handed it to Lady Pembrooke. With her confidence mounting, Thea didn’t hesitate to pour her own.
Unfortunately, she held the teapot a little too high, resulting in a tiny spill on her own saucer. At least the spill was on her saucer and not the lady sitting in front of her. Another week of practice in pouring tea, and she’d be serving it perfectly in no time. Instead of a defeat, Thea considered it a success. There wasn’t a hint of rattling china.
Or spilt cream.
“I’m so pleased you had time for me today.” Without even looking, Claire gently set her cup on her saucer. “Emma sends her regards. She wanted to come, but with two little ones and her bank, she couldn’t come today.” Claire smiled sheepishly. “But truthfully, I’m glad it’s just you and me.”
Her mood instantly brightened at the thought that the beautiful woman in front of her would be her friend. Someone she could visit and shop with. Someone she could share the everyday stories of her life as well as her troubles.
A sudden warmth welled in her chest. Will was her friend.
And now she could consider Claire a friend too. But her friendship with Claire would be a different type of friendship than what she had with Will. The bond she shared with him was something she’d never thought she’d find. It was deep and true.
“Thea, I’ll come right to the point. We Cavenshams are known for being direct.” Claire sat ramrod straight, and her soft musical lilt didn’t fool Theodora. The woman was made of steel.
“Please, I want you to be frank with me.” Thea matched Claire’s posture.
Claire’s gaze lowered to her hands that were neatly clasped in her lap. When she finally looked Thea’s way, her green eyes were gentle and kindhearted. “I took William to task for his ludicrous idea that he wants you to jilt him in favor of one of his friends. I’m here to offer you support and advice.”
Heat licked Thea’s cheeks. She swallowed in hopes that it would prevent her mortification from being recognized. She struggled to find something to say but finally responded. “I won’t jilt him.”
Claire let out a sigh. “I’m so happy to hear that.”
“We’re not engaged,” Thea said softly.
“Well, I know. But.…” Claire studied her with such an intensity that Thea was convinced she could see through her.
It was increasingly difficult to discuss what exactly her relationship was with Will. Never had she felt closer to another. There was a part of her—a big part of her that wanted Will. But she had no idea if it was friendship or if she wanted something deeper and more intimate.
She bit her lip. How to explain it when she wasn’t at all certain she grasped what they were to each other.
“Is Will planning to jilt you?” Claire asked.
“No.” Thea shook her head. “I want him to introduce me to his friends. Though I don’t want to marry unless it’s for love, I’ll do what is necessary to protect my estate and the people who live there.” She studied her clasped hands, then raised her gaze to Claire. “I told Will I didn’t want to marry, and I didn’t want to marry the first man I met. As luck would have it, Will just happened to be him.”
Claire elegantly stood, then rounded the small table between them. She sat next to Thea and took her hands in hers. “I have a plan.”
Claire’s soft skin belied her underlying strength. Thea squeezed Claire’s hands, hoping for some of the marchioness’s fortitude. “I don’t see how a plan is going to help me.”
Claire tilted her head and peeked at her. “Do you want to marry Will?”
Thea shrugged once. “Truthfully, it’s difficult to say. I admire him. He’s honorable, and more importantly, he’s my best friend.”
“I see.” Claire stood and pulled Thea to a standing position. With a gentle tug, Claire led Thea to a mirror in the sitting room that extended from the floor to the ceiling. Standing in front of it, Thea could see the entire room. She stood there without any idea what the marchioness wanted.
“It’s important to be able to recognize the right man when he comes along. I want you to be prepared, so I’m going to teach you society lessons,” Claire announced.
“Stella and Lady Edith have been helping me.” She blew a stray wisp of hair that had fallen down her forehead.
“And I’m sure they’re fine teachers. I’m only going to enhance the training a bit.” Several inches taller than Thea, Claire moved behind her and held Thea’s gaze in the mirror. “Think of it almost as flirting but more general. You need to communicate your interest in a man while showing your charm. If done in a playful manner, it’s completely harmless and amusing while teaching you confidence in talking with others.” Claire lightly rested her hands on Thea’s shoulders. “You learn how to engage another person’s interest. Think of it as a way to enrich how you talk to others.” She leaned close and whispered in Thea’s ear. “You, my dear, are going to drive every man invited to Langham Hall wild, including William.”
“I have no idea how to capture a man’s attention.” Thea shook her head. “I have no experience. Outside of Will, I haven’t had much contact with any men except my grandfather. Besides, The Midnight Cryer has made me out to be a murderer.” She let out a soulful sigh.
“The Midnight Cryer doesn’t care about the truth. They only care about making money. Trust me. I’ve had plenty of experience with that gossip rag. This is a way to rectify your reputation. You must practice your movements and sayings. Now, I’ve arranged for my husband, McCalpin, and Lord Somerton to come to the house tomorrow morning for a demonstration. Of course, Emma and I will be there to steer you and address any concerns you might have.”
“I can’t do that in front of them.” Thea shook her head vehemently. “They’ll see what a colossal fool I am.”
“I have the utmost confidence in you, Theodora. You’re a brilliant, not to mention capable person who happens to be beautiful on the inside as well as the outside. You just need a little practice. Shall we try?” The marchioness caught Thea’s gaze in the mirror and grinned. The slight smile bespoke a woman who was confident this plan would succeed.
“I suppose.” If this exercise held the promise of helping her with Will’s friends and others within the ton, then why not try it? It might also help her gain the approval of the committee if they see her self-assuredness and confidence.
“Excellent. The first thing you have to do when you’re introduced to a man is make eye contact and smile. It shows you’re interested enough that you’ll engage in a conversation with him.”
“Outside of discussing the expected yields of the various crops at Ladykyrk and the weather, what would I say?”
“You could start there. Most of the men you’ll meet have estates they’re responsible for. Tonight, I want you to make a list of things you could talk about,” Claire instructed. “Talk to your mirror as if it were a man or a stuffy society matron. You’ll grow more comfortable with hearing your voice and the words.”
“I’m responsible for an estate and approximately one hundred tenant farmers. I could debate the necessary qualifications of the new land steward I plan to hire.” She straightened her shoulders and smiled at the mirror. “I could tell them how beautiful Ladykyrk is.”
“See? You have more in common with these people than you think you do. These men face the same challenges and receive the same rewards as you do.” Claire gently squeezed her shoulders. “You’re a countess in your own right. Pick out your gown tonight. If you have the scene planned in your mind, it’ll be easier tomorrow.”
“Don’t you think it’s a little ridiculous that I stay in my room and talk to my mirror? Would you do it if you were me?” Completely bemused, Thea waited for Claire’s answer.
“In a heartbeat.” The marchioness grinned. “You’ll soon learn that people do whatever it takes to secure their heart of hearts.”
“Claire, I might have made a mistake,” Thea whispered. “Within the first five minutes of meeting, I told Will I wouldn’t marry him.”
She closed her eyes as the hot sting of tears burned her eyes.
“How did Will answer?” Claire asked.
“That he didn’t want to marry me either.”
Claire blinked twice as if trying to take it all in.
Thea glanced out the window to gaze at Langham Park hoping for clarity in her regard for Will. She had to concentrate on securing her title. Only then, could she consider marriage with a lifelong partner and a houseful of children. It would be in her best interest not to dwell on Will and her feelings. Truthfully, Thea had hoped for love, but she couldn’t expect to find a man who would fall head over heels in love with her while she was in London for this short visit. She also knew that no man would measure up to Will. His kindness, teasing, and comfort had made it so easy to share her past and its secrets along with everything she wanted in the future. She couldn’t imagine sharing so much of herself with another man.
Why did she even need to meet other men?
Claire gently turned Thea around until she faced her. “Be brave. Some men, like William, are afraid to risk their hearts. That is why you must be strong. Just remember, people change their minds, Thea. Do you think you changed yours?”
“I don’t know.” She let out a sigh. “Perhaps it’s best if I accept our friendship without wanting more.” Maybe she should accept that love wasn’t something she could attain.
Claire immediately hugged her.
“We all can change our minds.” Claire swept back that errant curl that refused to stay pinned in Thea’s chignon. “I did after I decided I didn’t want Alex.” Claire smiled ruefully. “I thought I’d lost him, but I didn’t.”
“I don’t even know what I want at this point,” Thea said gently, as mixed emotions seemed to swirl throughout her thoughts.
“You have plenty of time to figure it out,” Claire said. “Only marry for love not because a roomful of men in white-powdered wigs think it’s good for you.”
“All right. If I’m going to learn how to make a man interested in me, I should probably spend some time in my room. I believe I have an assignation with my mirror.”
The optimism in Thea’s voice belied the doubt that rooted deep inside her. Perhaps she didn’t deserve love.
“See. You’re already polishing your skills.” Claire laughed, but then returned to her earlier seriousness. “Never forget you’re a remarkable woman, Thea. Anyone would be fortunate to be married to you. I’ll teach you how to act in society, and in return, life will reward you an abundance of friends.”
She took a deep breath and slowly released it. There was no sense in wanting more. But she had one consolation. At least she had Will’s friendship.
But why did her obstinate heart insist on more than just that?
After taking tea with his mother and father the next day, Will descended from the second-floor family quarters. He found Pembrooke and Somerton strolling through the entry toward the blue-and-yellow salon, aptly named the Duke’s Salon since it featured the favorite colors of the previous duke, Claire’s father.
“Where are you off to?” Will called out in greeting. “I didn’t know you were coming this morning.”
Both turned with what could only be called roguish smiles on their faces. “Morning, William,” Pembrooke said.
“Morning.” Somerton nodded in greeting. “We’re meeting our wives and Thea this morning.”
“We’ll catch up another time, William,” Pembrooke said with a smirk.
Without another word, the two men approached the salon where their wives awaited them outside. Claire grinned at her husband, and Pembrooke took her hand and brought it to his lips. A dreamy-eyed Emma took Somerton’s outstretched hand.
Will stood in the entry. Before he could investigate further, his brother, McCalpin, and his wife, March, entered the house.
After the appropriate greetings, Will asked, “Why is everyone here?”
“Claire asked if we’d all meet this morning,” McCalpin said. “She’s seeking our assistance with a project.”
March nodded. “I was invited too, but first, I’m meeting with the duke and duchess to discuss last month’s financials for McCalpin’s estate. Would you like to join me?” Without waiting for Will’s answer, she continued, “I think it’s a ruse for the duke and duchess to coo over our recent news about the baby.”
“Indeed.” McCalpin pulled his wife close to his side and kissed her cheek. “As they didn’t invite me.”
Such an act of intimacy shouldn’t have bothered Will, but for a brief instant, a pang of envy coursed through him, much like a pain in his chest.
“They’re beside themselves in celebration of another grandchild,” McCalpin added.
March scooted closer to McCalpin, and his hand visibly tightened against her waist.
“Are you feeling well?” McCalpin murmured in her ear. He leaned close and kissed her cheek.
She blushed and nodded at the same time. Both stared into each other’s eyes completely oblivious to Will’s presence.
They fit perfectly together in temperament, talents, and most importantly, in their love. Will glanced at the ceiling of the atrium and pretended to study the chandelier while the two continued their moment of privacy.
McCalpin finally tore his gaze from his wife, then waggled his eyebrows at Will. “Imagine the possibilities for your future. You could be married with children on the way if you put your mind to it.”
That sinking feeling Will experienced when any of his family discussed marriage and babies took hold like a rabid dog. Truly, he was happy for them all. Claire and Pembrooke, Emma and Somerton, and now, McCalpin and March deserved every happiness that life had to offer.
Times like these, he’d always wondered if he’d fallen in love with a different woman, if it would have made a difference. Perhaps if he’d been older and more experienced in the ways of life. An image of Thea walking into their bedroom with a baby propped on her hip popped out of nowhere. Instead of dismissing it, Will allowed the vision to linger. He held out his arms to welcome both into bed. Warmth and contentment rushed through him, and it felt right.
A sound of a deep baritone laugh interrupted his musings. Somerton emerged from under the staircase holding Emma’s hand. The blush of her cheeks and her swollen lips revealed that those two had been sharing more than a private conversation.
Watching his siblings and cousin and their happy state of matrimony caused that sinking feeling again.
The sound of feminine laughter garnered his attention. Pembrooke was bending over Claire’s hand. His lips touched the top of her hand, and Claire audibly sighed.
“So, that’s how it’s done.” Dressed in a vermilion-colored gown with a gold lace overlay, Thea practically glowed. The smile on her face turned from attractive to breathtaking. The sparkle in her eyes and the slight flush of her cheeks enhanced the amazing sight of her. Mesmerized, he couldn’t turn away even if a coach-and-four were barreling toward him.
Her gaze caught his, and her eyes flashed briefly as if genuinely happy to see him. With a dip of her head, she acknowledged him. Believing he’d be included in whatever she was doing, he took a step toward her. Abruptly, she turned on the spot and moved toward the entrance of the Duke’s Salon. The others had already made their way inside.
“Thea, wait.”
Gracefully, she turned and came to a stop. The tenderness in her expression surprised him, but it was quickly replaced with a secretive smile. “Hello, Will.”
He smiled at the pure pleasure of seeing her and having her undivided attention. “Good morning. What are you doing this morning in the Duke’s Salon?” He leaned in close until a mere hand’s width separated them. He lowered his voice. “Did you forget to invite me?”
She laughed softly, then looked him directly in the eyes. “Of course not. I’d never forget you.” An enchanting half grin tugged at one corner of her lips.
“I can’t tell you the overwhelming relief I have at hearing those words cross your lips.” He reached toward her, then gently brushed his fingers over the silky skin of her cheek. It was as delicate as he remembered. “You have a loose curl,” he murmured.
It was the perfect excuse to keep on touching her as he pushed the loose wispy curl behind her ear. The sweet scent of melograno and the essence of Theodora rushed toward him.
Her incredible eyes warmed at his touch.
Good God, he could stay here all day if she kept on looking at him like that. He cleared his throat then swallowed in an attempt to find his sanity—which had strolled away on its own. “What are you and the others doing in the salon?”
She slowly batted her eyelashes as if awakening from a dream. “They’re teaching me how to … present myself in society.”
“McCalpin, Somerton, and Pembrooke volunteered to teach you deportment lessons?”
“No.” She laughed. “A little instruction in flirting just might be involved.”
The lighthearted sound tugged at something deep in his chest. He took a long-drawn-out breath to slow the rhythm of his pulse.
“They’re teaching you how to flirt? What could they possibly know about the subject?” Seeing the amusement in her eyes, he laughed. “They’re married men.”
“Proving they’re accomplished in the craft. Wouldn’t you say so?” The sweetness in her voice reminded him of midsummer honey.
“It’s fortunate I’m here.” He deepened his voice. “Let me help.”
“I’m sure you’re an expert at communicating everything you desire,” she purred.
Her gaze penetrated him, and for a brief moment, he could feel her inside him, invading and conquering his defenses against letting a woman get near him. In some ways, it was a perfect moment, one he’d remember always. Her hand tenderly rested on his arm, the touch a private communication between them.
Unaware of his surroundings, Will wanted to take her into his arms and kiss her until they were both lost in each other. “Thea,” he groaned.
“Yes, Will?” She leaned closer, and he bent his head. The distance between their lips was inches apart. She tightened her hand on his arm, indicating she felt this perfect interlude between them also.
He wanted to roar in triumph.
“Let me escort you in, and we can continue the lessons. I’d like to teach you.” His gaze never strayed from hers. “Everything.”
She studied his face as if memorizing every feature, then her gaze slowly captured his. The serene look on her face held him spellbound. “Will.”
The breathless sigh of his name made every organ inside of him tighten, particularly his cock.
“I’m terribly sorry, but you weren’t invited.” Without another word or explanation, she turned and walked into the salon. The gentle roll of her hips would entice a man to follow her anywhere. But the click of the door proved he truly wasn’t welcome.
He exhaled a painful but silent breath. The truth was she certainly didn’t need flirting lessons. By what he’d just seen, he’d consider her an expert in the art.
What he didn’t expect was the pain from learning he wasn’t wanted.
It bit into his pride with a savage chomp.