“Don’t forget that other lady is probably still planning to compromise me.”
Good heavens. Adeline had forgotten all about Miss Hanson. “The same advice holds true. Do not go anywhere by yourself.”
“I shall do exactly as you say.” He feathered the corner on to Upper Brook Street. “When I marry, I wish to wed a lady who wants me for more than my title and my wealth.”
“I cannot fault you.” That is what she wanted as well, to be loved for herself and not her bloodlines or dowry. Fortunately, no one was attempting to compromise her into marriage. “Let me know tonight if you have found a gentleman for Miss Tice.” And while he was doing that, Adeline would think of a plan to foil Miss Hanson. “I hope that they are the only two ladies who feel free to trap you into marriage.”
“So do I.” His words sounded heartfelt. He pulled up in front of her house, and was at her side, lifting her down, before she remembered they were to perform their little test. Again, his touch sent a pleasurable thrill through her. If only she knew how to stop reacting to him.
She took his arm and he walked her to the door. “I shall see you this evening.”
Taking her hand, he bowed over and kissed her gloved fingers. “I look forward to it.”
Goodness, her hand felt singed.
This has got to stop.
Chapter Seventeen
Abney bowed as Adeline walked into the hall.
“You have a note from Lord Anglesey, my lady. It arrived this morning, but her ladyship had it brought down after you departed.”
“Thank you, Abney.” She picked up the card and turned it over.
My Dear Lady Adeline,
Would you do me the great honor of standing up with me for the supper dance?
I shall impatiently await your reply.
Yr. devoted servant,
Anglesey
She hoped he was not too impatient. If so, he’d had a long day waiting for her answer. “I shall pen a reply directly. Please have a footman ready to take it.”
“As you wish, my lady.”
She went to the morning room, removed her gloves, and pulled out a sheet of pressed paper. She did not like having to give his lordship bad news, and remembered that she had another set free. Resolving to offer that dance to him, she wrote:
Dear Lord Anglesey,
Unfortunately, I did not receive your kind invitation until after I was already committed for the supper dance. However, you may have the first country dance, if you wish.
Regards,
A. Wivenly
Adeline frowned at the note. It was not very elegant, but she could think of nothing else to write.
After she had sealed the letter, she took it to the hall, where a footman was waiting. “This must go to Lord Anglesey at Normanby House.”
“At once, my lady.”
Now, if she could just come up with a plan to stop Miss Hanson and the others from attempting to sink their fangs into poor Littleton.
Lord Littleton.
