“I have no idea.” He pulled his shirt over his head. “We have never touched on the subject. Once she marries me, she won’t be going anywhere.”
“In that event, I would not mention it to her. Have you asked her other questions about her likes and dislikes?”
The socks he’d picked up fell to the floor. Jean probably had a good point. He did not want Adeline dreaming about Paris. “No. Should I?”
Jean looked down her nose at him. “Yes, of course. All ladies like to be asked about the things they enjoy. I am surprised you did not think of it before. After all, you ask me.”
Well, put like that... “What do you suggest I do?”
“As I said. Ask her about herself, what she likes.” She donned her stays, lacing them in the front. “Discover what she dislikes. She will be more interested in you if you show some interest in her. Have you approached her father?”
“I sent him a letter, but that was over a week ago, and I have heard nothing from him.” Instead of compromising her, that would be the easiest way to bring about securing the lady. Unfortunately, it did not seem as if Lord Watford was interested in the match.
“It would help your cause if the lady at least liked you. This is only her first Season. Her parents might not care if she makes a match this year.” Jean placed a bonnet on her head and drew on her gloves.
He pulled on his boots, then sauntered over to her and kissed her neck. “I shall do as you say.”
Turning to face him, she smiled. “I look forward to hearing what happens.”
“You shall. Tonight at the ball. I am sure we can find somewhere to have a private conversation.” Being able to slip away with her had been the only interesting thing about the blasted balls.
“Ummm.” She pressed her body against his. “This time you must be more careful of my gown.”
“I think I can manage that.” By the time he’d got her alone, he’d been desperate. This evening, he wouldn’t let himself lose control.
“Come, my lord. You must bathe before you meet the young Lady Adeline.”
He doubted the lady would know what she was smelling, but he had to admit he needed a bath.
* * *
Adeline was looking forward to her carriage ride with Lord Anglesey, but she was more than pleasantly surprised when he asked how she was and waited for a reply.
“I am quite well, thank you.” He handed her into his carriage. “And you?”
He smiled, and it appeared genuine. “I have had an excellent day, which only promises to get better.”
Once his lordship had his ribbons adjusted, he gave his horses their office. “What do you do during the day?”
“Oh, the usual. I take care of some business and visit my club. The same things most gentlemen do.” He turned the corner onto Orchard Street, and for the first time she noticed that he was not as skilled as Littleton. “What did you do today?”
What had changed that he was deepening their conversations? Was he considering actually courting her? “I went for an early walk, assisted my mother with some household duties, then did a little shopping with friends.”
“Do you find London to your taste?” He slid her a quick glance.
This was her opportunity to get to know him better as well. Whatever had caused the change, Adeline decided she had nothing to lose by answering honestly. “The Season has been interesting, but I prefer the country. One is too confined in London.”
“I must agree with you. There are too many rules.” He sounded disgruntled.
She did not know how he could complain. Gentlemen could do almost anything they wished. Perhaps he missed the country. “Do you like the country as well?”
“My family’s estate is beautiful. I look forward to seeing it again.” Hmmm. That was evasive. “I intend to spend most of the summer there.”
“Where will you go during the times you are not at home?”
The corner of his mouth tilted. “Probably to one or more of the other estates.”
Adeline was pleased to hear he did not wish to return to Town.
