“My lord, that was magnificent,” Miss Weston said.
George held out his arm, and they stepped out from behind the bathing hut. “Indeed it was, my lady. I’d like nothing better than to kiss you some more, but I don’t wish to bring scandal down upon you.”
“Thank you for your consideration. I’m very happy it was you who gave me my first kiss. I shall treasure it always,” she said.
As will I, my lady, George thought.
Chapter 9
Harriet hadn’t seen Lord Hartleyfor three days, and she was beginning to worry about his health and was despairing of ever seeing him again. She went in search of her grandmother to ask her advice and found Lady Dalling in the small sitting area off her bedchamber. She knocked on the door before opening it.
“Gran, do you have a moment?” she asked as she poked her head in.
Lady Dalling looked up from her correspondence. “Of course, my dear,” she said, turning toward her in her chair. “What may I do for you?”
Harriet entered and closed the door behind her. The last thing she wanted was for anyone to overhear their conversation, especially her mother. “Well, it’s a little complicated.”
Marian nodded. “I see. Does this have anything to do with Lord Hartley?”
Harriet’s eyes widened before she said, “I’ve not seen him for three days and am worried that the thunderstorm that startled him so badly has done more damage to his well-being.”
“I see. As much as I would like to help you, I’m afraid Lord Hartley isn’t very sociable these days. He’s refused every invitation I’ve sent him for the past two years.”
Harriet began to pace. “There must be something we can do. I feel there’s some connection between us, though it’s tenuous at best. I know he was going to speak with me before the thunder ruined everything.”
“My dear, you must be very careful in your regard for Lord Hartley. Some men never recover from their war wounds, and I want you to understand the reality of that.”
“I do understand, Gran, but I’d still like to see him again. I’ve never felt more alive than when we danced together.”
Her grandmother seemed lost in thought for a few moments before she answered. “There’s one thing we can try, but it may not sit well with Lord Hartley.”
“Really?”
“Yes, but I’ll need help from Lord Spenser and Lord Evans, if they’re agreeable to my suggestion.”
“Oh?”
“I won’t say more until I speak with them.”
Harriet knew when she was being dismissed. She bussed her grandmother’s cheek. “Thank you, Gran. I appreciate any help you can offer.”
Harriet made her way down to the library to find a book to help pass the time before Miss Weston and Mrs. Kennedy came for tea. Lord and Lady Evans were also supposed to be there by then. Harriet knew Lady Evans had become great friends with Miss Weston and was happy that she’d be able to visit together, but what she really wanted was for her grandmother to talk with the two lords. Hopefully, they could form a plan to see Lord Hartley soon.
She tried to keep herself busy, but her nerves were on edge. What if Lord Hartley were seriously ill? His affliction was a mystery to her, and she had no idea how to help him. Perhaps Lord Evans and Lord Spenser would know the best course of action.
The day dragged on and even her book did little to hold her interest while she waited for afternoon tea. She returned the book to the shelf and walked to the parlor. Finally, her mother and grandmother joined her. Her grandmother knew of herconcerns, but Harriet didn’t want her mother to know of her interest in Lord Hartley, especially since she’d barely spoken a dozen words to the man. It took a supreme effort not to fidget and pace the room as she waited for the arrival of the two lords who might be able to help her see the earl.
Much to her relief, Lord and Lady Evans arrived promptly at teatime.
“Lady Dalling, Lady Collin, a pleasure to see you again,” Lady Evans said.
“Lady Evans, I’m so pleased you could join us today. You and Lord Evans are always welcome,” Marian said.
Richard bowed over Marian’s and Eleanor’s hands. “Ladies, we’re pleased to be here.” He turned to Harriet. “How’s my little tiger these days?”
Harriet couldn’t help but smile at the mild teasing. “Lord Evans, it’s good to see you again.”
“Lady Harriet, you look lovely,” Lady Evans said. “How are you liking Bath?”
