“It’s a beautiful manor house,” Lydia said, peeking out the carriage window.
“Yes, it is,” Bett said.
The carriage came to a stop, and the footman opened the door and handed the women out. The front door opened, and Georgiana walked out to greet them.
“You’re finally here! I’m so very pleased to see you,” she said, hugging Bett. “It’s been too long since we had a visit together.”
The last time Bett had seen her sister was at Georgiana’s wedding six months before Stephen’s untimely death. It had been a rough year for Bett, grieving for her beloved husband and child. Georgiana had offered to stay with her, but Bett had declined. She didn’t want to interrupt her sister’s honeymoon phase with her new husband.
“I know, but I’m here now.”
“Come in. Tea will be served shortly.”
Bett turned to Lydia. “Why don’t you go to the kitchen for a cup of tea? I’ll see you later.”
“Thank you, my lady,” Lydia said, following the footman, who was laden down with Bett’s baggage, inside.
“We’ve given you the bedchamber overlooking the garden,” Georgiana said. “I know how much you enjoy a lovely view.”
Bett linked her arm with her sister’s, and they walked inside. Bett was taller than her sister, but they both shared their mother’s dark hair and blue eyes. “That was ever so thoughtful. Thank you.”
She looked around as they entered the foyer. Not a speck of dust was to be seen on the black and white marble floor tiles. There was a grand staircase leading to the upper floors, and Georgiana led her up to the second-floor family parlor. The room was decorated in a lovely shade of light green, with ivory silk drapes framing the windows. “What a beautiful room!” she exclaimed.
“It’s my favorite room. Persing has given me leave to redecorate any of the rooms I wish.”
“It’s lovely,” Bett said, sitting on the sofa with Georgiana. She removed her gloves and bonnet and laid them beside her. “How are you faring these days? I was so pleased to hear of your happy news in your last letter.”
“Better now, I’m pleased to say. I hope to give my darling husband an heir in December.”
“You’ll be a wonderful mother.”
“I do hope so. Bett, I know this news must be difficult for you.”
Bett held up her hand. “Georgiana, there’s no need for you to be concerned. I am well, I promise.”
“Would you like to meet some of the local gentry? There are a few eligible bachelors in the area, and I’d be happy to host a dinner party so you may meet them.”
Bett paused before answering. Should she tell Georgiana about Mr. Hughes? Even though he hadn’t written to her yet, shecouldn’t dismiss her attraction to him. Nor could she forget his scorching kisses, which curled her toes.
“Bett, is something amiss?” Georgiana asked, grasping her hand. “You look upset.”
Bett shook her head. “No, everything is well, but may I share a confidence with you?”
“Of course. You may share anything you like. You know I would never judge you on any decision you make. I’m your sister and love you. Please, go ahead and tell me.”
Bett opened her mouth, but a knock on the door interrupted her.
“Come,” Georgiana said.
A maid brought in a tea tray and put it on the low table in front of the sofa. “Shall I pour for you, my lady?”
“No. You may go, Estelle.”
The maid curtseyed and exited the room, closing the door behind her.
Georgiana prepared the tea and handed Bett a cup. “We shall not be disturbed anymore. Would you care to share your confidence now?”
Bett took a deep breath. She had to tell someone other than her friend Olivia about her growing feelings for Mr. Hughes. She’d tried to dismiss them, but every time she took a stroll in the garden, it reminded her of the lovely kisses they’d shared in the Flemings’ garden. “Last month, I attended a house party with my friend, Lady Armstrong.”
