“So I’ve been told. As a matter of fact, it became quite apparent from the scandal sheet the other day. Apparently, working hard to achieve one’s goals to have a better life is not the done thing here in London. ”
“Gossip is theton’sfavorite pastime, I’m afraid. Do not worry, though; if you quit working at the paper and merely take the investment profit, all will be forgiven. With the Season just beginning, you can be sure a new scandal willtake their attention away from you in no time.”
Jacob wasn’t sure what he was going to do about his business now that he knew how English society felt about it. He loved being a journalist and running the paper. Was he willing to give up everything that he’d worked so hard for the last five years? What would he do if he weren’t running the paper or writing articles for it? Before he made any decisions, he wanted to spend more time in London and then see the country house. As none of the Parker sisters could tell him anything about it because they’d never been there, it was imperative for him to know everything about the estate before he made any decisions that could not be undone.
“Mr. Haggerty tells me you’re the guardian of the Parker sisters. Have you met them yet?”
Jacob nodded. “I have indeed. They’re lovely young women, and the eldest, Miss Parker, is thinking about whether she wants to participate in the Season.”
George chuckled. “Ahh…my youngest daughter, Lady Katherine, is currently enjoying the Season. I can only describe it as swimming in an ocean full of hungry sharks. You must be on guard at all times and watch for any missteps that could end the chance for a good match in a trice. Lady Devon is a master at it, having successfully seen our oldest daughter settled nicely with a viscount.”
That gave Jacob an idea. “Would Lady Devon be willing to chaperone Miss Parker to a few events to help her decide whether she wants to participate in the Season?” Jacob asked.
“I honestly don’t know, but I will definitely confer with her.”
“If Lady Devon is overwhelmed with your daughter’s coming out, I’d be able to supply Lord Fletcher with the names of a couple of women who could act as chaperones,” Mr. Haggerty said.
“Thank you both. That would be most helpful.”
Jacob left the meeting feeling better about his stay in London. After a rocky start, he was beginning to enjoy the city. Time would tell if London was attractive enough to make him want to stay and give up all he’d worked for in New York.
It was at that moment that the image of a blue-eyed beauty settled in his mind.
Chapter14
Audrey had not seen LordFletcher in five days, which made her think that being ridiculed in the scandal sheet had been too much for him to bear—not that she could blame him. No one wanted to be named in that vicious gossip sheet and endure the sly looks and whispers wherever they went. She’d kept busy with the sewing that Mrs. Beaumont gave her. She enjoyed the work and was ever grateful for the opportunity to earn more coin. As long as Mrs. Beaumont was pleased with her work, she would continue. Grace had become a great help as well, and they were able to complete quite a few dresses in those five days.
She’d also continued her lessons on household management for her sisters while she waited to hear from Lord Fletcher.
Would he inform her if he were leaving to return to New York? An unexpected sadness gripped her as she realized she didn’t want him to leave. She really did enjoy his company, and the flutterings in her belly whenever she thought of him told her that he was someone special. Asmuch as she’d tried not to like him, it was turning into a losing battle. She liked him more than ever and missed not seeing him this week. As she was trying to come to grips with her feelings, Beckwith walked into the parlor.
“Miss Parker, this note just arrived for you.”
She took the note and, recognizing Lord Fletcher’s handwriting, broke the seal.
Dear Miss Parker,
I would like to call upon you later today if that suits you. I have some interesting news you might enjoy hearing.
Sincerely,
JS
Interesting news?
What could it be?
Audrey wanted to think it was something positive, but she was afraid her worst fears were about to come true. He was leaving London. Was there anything she could do to convince him to stay? She penned a quick note to him that she would be happy to see him for tea.
She went looking for the butler and found him in the kitchen with Mrs. Culbert. “Beckwith, please deliver this note to Lord Fletcher at Mivart’s Hotel.”
“Of course, Miss Parker,” the butler said, leaving the cozy room.
“Mrs. Culbert, Lord Fletcher will be joining us for tea today.”
“How lovely. Shall I make my lemon biscuits? All you girls enjoy those.”
“Oh yes, that would be delightful,” Audrey said, turning around and leaving the kitchen.
