That explanation didn’t clarify anything. An apprehension crept into Eugénie, making her stomach uneasy. If she did not know these other ways of talking, and she married Wivenly, how would she go on in England? Everyone would think her provincial at the very least, or perhaps even stupid.
Mrs. Whitecliff was still speaking of the advantages of acquiring “Town bronze,” while Eugénie grappled with her new fear of not being sophisticated enough for Wivenly. If Andrew was in shipping, he probably did not travel in the same circles, therefore it would not be a problem for Cicely. Even if he did, she was the epitome of how an English lady should appear. Yet Eugénie had the darker hair and complexion of southern France and looked French or Spanish. And there was her accent. Because Papa had always called her his little French girl, she had studiously avoided learning to speak and act like an Englishwoman. How would Wivenly’s family take to her? The British in Jamaica did not like the French. That was the reason Papa had chosen to remove to St. Thomas and its more cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Even if Wivenly thought he loved her, how long could it last when she was so ignorant of the world?
“Eugénie?” Her name was a soft caress on Wivenly’s tongue. “What is bothering you?”
“Oh, my lord, I didn’t see you enter.” Mrs. Whitecliff fluttered her fan. “I was just explaining to Eugénie that you did not give offense when you indicated to me you were enjoying your tête-à-tête with her. Very appropriate in our little gathering, but not, of course, among strangers.”
Wivenly bowed slightly. “As you say, ma’am. Thank you.”
“Don’t think of it.” Mrs. Whitecliff smiled. “Now, I must go ensure my family is not planning to have a Lutheran or Methodist minister perform the wedding ceremony.”
She glided away, making a direct line for her husband, Cicely, and Andrew.
Wivenly took Eugénie’s arm, strolling with her to the other side of the large room. “What was there in that to upset you?”
She lifted her gaze to his, and his eyes searched hers. It was only fair that she tell him of her fears, even if he did think her unsophisticated.
Will waited for Eugénie to speak, but the fringe of her shawl seemed to suddenly be in need of attention. He couldn’t imagine what the other woman had said to Eugénie to have her so hesitant. One of the things he loved about her was that he always knew where he stood. He may not always like it, but he was never in doubt.
He placed one finger under her chin, raising it. “Whatever it is, I want to know.”
She sighed. “I asked Mrs. Whitecliff what your exchange with her meant, which led to a discussion of how Cicely and I are not as polished as ladies who have had a Season. Then I began to think that, if we marry, I might be an embarrassment to you. Or your family may not like me because I’m French.”
He caught her hands as they waved around. “I came here to escape the young ladies of theton. Some might think their conversation interesting, but to me it was banal.” He raised one hand then the other to his lips. A slow blush rose in her cheeks. “Very few of them care about the sufferings of those around them. We’ve only touched on certain subjects, but you have a passion I find refreshing.”
Her eyes widened. “I do?”
“Yes, and if there is anything you need to know and I’m not around, either my mother or my friends’ wives will be happy to help you.”
“And the fact that I am French?”
Will couldn’t help but chuckle. “My family will think you exotic.”
“That is good.” Her countenance brightened. “Then the only thing we have to decide is if we suit.”
He glanced around the large room and cursed the lack of parlors and other chambers. If they were in England, he’d walk with her in the garden, or spirit her off into a morning room, and show her how well they suited. As it was, their friends and family left them alone, but they were still in complete view of everyone.
Mr. Whitecliff and Andrew bowed to Aunt Sidonie. It appeared the evening was at an end. “I shall see you in the morning.”
“Do not forget to be here at eight o’clock.”
Wivenly was still holding her hands. He turned them, placing kisses in her palms. “I could never forget.”
He walked out with the others, and after bidding the Whitecliffs a good evening, strolled to the hotel with Andrew. “That was quite a discussion you had with Mr. Whitecliff. Did you resolve anything?”
“No. Though I have learned my betrothed is not one to give up. I think we may have talked her father around, for all the good it does us. Whitecliff is not stupid enough to go directly against his lady.”
Will heaved a sigh. “At least you know you’ll wed. Eugénie is still unsure.”
“You’ve never had to work for a woman’s affections before.” Andrew’s voice was laced with humor. “It’s good for you to have your will thwarted. Eugénie won’t allow you to run roughshod over her.”
“I’m starting to know what Marcus, Beaumont, and Rutherford went through in courting their wives.”
Andrew gave a shout of laughter. “I heard about Beaumont’s problems securing his bride. I didn’t know about the others.”
Will smiled wryly. “According to them, it took all their determination and skill to bring their ladies up to scratch.”
