“More likely Cousin Apollonia’s.”
He raked his fingers through his hair. “Blast it all. Where could it be?”
Nettle stepped forward, opened a drawer, pulled out a piece of paper, and held it between his thumb and forefinger. “Would this be what you are searching for, my lord?”
Geoff snatched it from his valet’s hands. “Yes.” He read down the items. “First thing tomorrow I want you to go find roses.”
“Roses?” His valet’s brows rose briefly. “What kind of roses, my lord?”
He read the list again. “Pink. Have them put some greenery with them as well.”
“And after I have procured the blooms?” Nettle appeared perplexed as he well might. With one major exception, that had made him look like a popinjay, Geoff had never given flowers to anyone.
“I’ll have a note ready to go with them to Miss Turley.”
“Ah, very good, my lord. I will endeavor to arrive at the market when it opens. I believe this will require my personal interest.”
“Good man.” He poured himself a large glass of brandy. “Have the messenger wait for an answer.” Geoff just hoped she didn’t take an hour to respond like she had the last time. Although then, he had not been on pins and needles wondering if she would accompany him instead of already having an engagement with Littleton.
Geoff sat down at the desk. He had to strike the right tone with her. Not desperate, but clearly exhibiting his desire to spend time with her. Why the devil was Littleton in Town this late in the Season in the first place? Or at all? Usually, he was mired in his estates.
Geoff blew a breath. Worrying about the man wouldn’t help him. He had to focus on his quarry.
My dear Miss Turley,
I apologize again for not seeking a second set from you before your card was full.
That he had not made sure to secure that second set from her still enraged him. Come to think of it, that was the evening Littleton showed up.
Please allow me to stand up with you twice at the Somerville ball for the second set—they were both waltzes—and the supper dance, and two dances at the subsequent events.
It would also be my honor to take you driving this afternoon at five o’clock.
My servant will await your answer.
Yr. humble and devoted servant,
G. Harrington
Damn, Littleton. It looked like Geoff was going to have to make a cake of himself after all.
He glanced at the corner of his desk where Nettle placed important correspondence and there was a letter from his father.
Dear Harrington,
As I have not heard from you regarding your courtship of Miss Turley, I trust you have it well in hand. Events are moving rapidly on the Continent. You should be ready to depart as soon as possible.
Markham
Hell and the Devil confound it! What else was on that blasted list?
Send flowers, bonbons, ices at Gunter’s, or whatever she enjoys most.
How was Geoff supposed to know what Miss Turley liked? They had never discussed it.
Always offer an invitation in person. It is less likely she will refuse.
Blast it all! He crumpled the note and threw it in the fireplace. “Nettle,” Geoff called. “Wake me when you return from the market in the morning. I’ll take the flowers to her myself.”
