“Lud, I have no idea how you discover all these tidbits. That is indeed interesting. However, I know about the rest of his reputation. I am not certain I’ll be— No, I am quite certain I shan’t be comfortable at one of his house parties. And I understand they are quite exclusive. Invitations are near impossible to get.”
Beth had smirked and waved the note. “Penelope put our names on the list. And really, Althea. You weren’t comfortable taking me in or accompanying me to his London party. It seems like a silent investor, particularly when he alone might provide the full sum you need, is worth a little more discomfort?”
Althea had remained doubtful, and she preferred a female investor. However, not seeing another way, she had made the necessary arrangements.
“Please, not this again.” Across from her on the carriage seat, Beth rolled her eyes.
“He doesn’t know us. I haven’t needed an investor before. I fear I cannot walk up to the man, introduce myself, and ask for money.”
“Althea. Stop it.” Beth put her hand over her cousin’s fidgeting ones. “I am certain you know how to charm people into parting with their money. I’ve seen you do it in the store for—pardon me, but—ridiculously priced soaps and other goods.”
Althea flashed her a quick grin, smoothing the wrinkles she’d created in her gown.
Beth continued, “We will find a way.”
“What if he’s constantly playing…” She searched for the right word, before bursting out with, “…prurient games?”
Beth howled with laughter. “One can only hope, cuz! I can jump right in and get to know him better then spring the idea on him or pass him over to you.”
Althea gasped. “No, I could not. I mean, you know I fully support whatever you want to do, but I cannot fathom it.”
“I know. Sadly, your overly religious father and strait-laced husband skewed your view of men. ’Tis a shame, really. You don’t know what you are missing.” Beth leered at her cousin.
“Which goes to my point. I certainly did not understand my lack of freedom”—she ignored Beth’s coughedsexual pleasure—“in my marriage. Now, keeping my newfound independence is of paramount importance. I do not want a man involved. What if people find out and only want to deal with him? It could divert attention and business. My business could become his enterprise, shunting aside the woman responsible for its success. I still hope to find a woman with enough capital.”
“Please, I beg you. Stop worrying. All will be well. If you get an offer and it doesn’t suit, you can refuse it. If you decline politely, no one can take offense.”
“But then there will be someone out there who knows how profitable selling shampoo could be. I shall have created my own competition.”
Beth bent her head and looked up at her cousin through her lashes. “Do you really think this crowd is going to exert themselves,lowerthemselves, to become merchants? Stop it.”
“Ack. You are right. I am sorry.”
“Now, shall we focus on the fun parts of this? You have more than ten days without having to be at the store. More, without being in London. What do you plan to do with your time?”
“Hmm. Rework some numbers for the store expansion probably.”
“Oh my goodness. I said fun. What games will you play with the other guests?”
“I don’t know.” Althea stared out the window for a moment. “I cannot remember the last house party I attended. What games will he offer, do you think?”
“Ha. With Cheltie, one never knows. Usually there would be croquet and picnics, and dances in the evening. Mayhap cards and music. Hunting for those who want some exercise.”
“How is it that you’re six years younger than me, but know all this while I do not?”
Beth shrugged. “I am more fun than you?”
Althea laughed. “Right, then. Croquet. I am not sure I remember the rules, but that does sound fun if the weather improves. And I do love a game of whist. ’Tis been ages since I played.”
****
“I had the servants clean your workroom this week,” Evan said as he pulled chairs onto the balcony of Ford’s guest suite to watch carriages arrive.
He assumed his usual deceptive lounge, leg crossed over the other and swinging as though he hadn’t a care in the world as he stared out over the rolling hills of the estate he loved. He’d grown up in this manor home, running across those slopes with a hound, then in more recent years on horseback, always in search of an adventure or someone his own age.
As his parents’ only child and heir, he was watched like a hawk and drilled in lessons on deportment, comportment, and all the portments, except when he could escape and roam. Now, despite his mother’s presence in the dower house, he was once again alone.
Ford grinned. “Excellent, thank you. I have a new cuff configuration I think will sell well, so I started a few and will place the buckles accordingly on the lengths to order.”
