“Very good, my lady,” Wright said, leaving the room and closing the door behind him.
Helena returned to the sofa and grasped Lydia’s hands. “My dear friend, tell me what’s wrong. I hate to see you so upset. Is this about Lord Hutchinson?”
“Yes. Well actually, no. I realize that I’ll never be able to marry George now, and I’ve reconciled myself to the fact. This is so much worse.”
“How can it be worse? Not being with the man you love has to be the worst punishment I can think of.”
“Unfortunately, it isn’t. My father wants me out of the house. He says if I’m not engaged soon, he’ll accept Baron Oakley’s proposal.”
Helena’s hand flew to her mouth. “Oh no! I met the man last Season. Honestly, I didn’t like being around him at all. He made my flesh crawl when he bowed over my hand.”
“My reaction as well.”
“This is indeed a problem. What did you say? Did you try to reason with your father?”
Lydia swiped the tears from her cheeks. Talking about her father’s ultimatum made it so much more real. “I tried to talk with him, but he was adamant that his decision was final. However, he did say that I had until June to secure another match.”
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation, and they were silent while the maid wheeled in a tea cart.
“Will there be anything else, Lady Evans?” Diana asked.
“No, you may go,” Helena said.
Diana curtseyed and left the room, quietly closing the door.
Helena poured out the tea. “Here, a hot cup of tea always makes me feel better.”
“Thank you, Helena. I do apologize for burdening you with my problems.”
“Nonsense, Lydia. That’s what friends are for. I can talk to Richard about whether he knows any suitable gentlemen looking for a bride this Season. Would you be open to that?”
“That would be most welcome. Thank you. I’m afraid I don’t know many gentlemen. I lost my heart to George early last Season and had no desire to meet anyone else.”
“You mustn’t worry too much. Richard and I will help in any way we can.”
“Thank you, Helena. You’re truly such a dear friend. Now, enough about me. How are you?”
“Are you ready for some good news?” Helena asked with a huge smile.
“Always. Wait, you seem different. Are you well?”
Helena nodded. “Yes. I admit I haven’t been feeling very well for the last couple of months, but that seems to be in the past now.”
Lydia set her teacup down. “Are you with child again?”
“I am. When I lost our first child last fall, I thought I’d never recover from the heartbreak. I’ve never experienced such loss and pain. But Richard was so patient with me and let me heal from the ordeal while quietly being the most supportive husband a wife could ask for. Now we can look forward to this child. I’m overjoyed this pregnancy has progressed without incident so far. Richard’s very protective of me, and I love him for it. It took weeks to convince him I was well enough to come to Town for the Season.”
Lydia hugged Helena. “Oh, you’re more beautiful than ever, and I’m so very pleased for you both. That’s excellent news.”
“I hope to deliver Richard’s heir in September.”
“Should you be in Town in your condition? Perhaps Richard is right to be concerned?”
“I’m fine, honestly, and should be able to enjoy many activities this Season before my condition becomes too noticeable,” Helena said. “Then we’ll head back to the country for my confinement.”
“I’m glad you feel better and so happy you’re here for however long you can stay.”
“I’ll share my list of invites with you and if you’d like to attend one, I’ll ask the hostess for an invitation for you. How does that sound?”
