“I am afraid we are required to be back in time for breakfast with our family.” Eleanor’s tone was firm. “However, perhaps you will not have to work so late this evening and will be able to join us tomorrow morning.”
“Yes. I will arrange that.” He gave her a charming smile. “Until tomorrow.”
Lord St. Albans glanced at Lord Montagu then to Alice. “The least we can do is to escort you to the gate.”
“Yes, of course.” This was her first encounter with a gentleman who was not related or whom she had not known for years, and it was exciting. The way his eyes twinkled when he looked at her was also exciting.
Lord St. Albans bowed. “We are at your command.”
For some reason, Alice knew he must have said that many times before, still . . . “How nice. I do not believe anyone has ever said that to me.”
“I am certain I will not be the only one.” The only gentleman she knew whose tone was as sophisticated as his was her brother-in-law Con Kenilworth.
Suddenly, Alice had a suspicion he might be a rake. “Have you spent a lot of time in Town?”
“My dear lady, I have been on the Town for years.” As he spoke, a look came into his eyes that she did not understand. Prickles danced across her neck and shoulders before spreading to the rest of her body.
“You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.” His horse sidled closer to hers. “And I’ve seen a great many of them.” Alice didn’t know what to say or even think. No one had ever been this bold before. “I would be happy to show you the sights.”
He was not going to get the best of her. A change of subject was in order. “Although we have not been out, we have come to the metropolis during the Season for many years. Our brother and brothers-in-law are very active in the Lords.”
“Fortunately, I have not yet ascended to my father’s title.” He gave her a look she could only describe as heavy or significant. “Are you interested in politics?
“I am indeed. It is my belief we must all do what we are able.”
“A very admirable view.” It was an appropriate remark to make, but he did not seem to be referring to what she had said. It was almost as if he had not really heard her.
Alice waited for him to continue, but before he could speak Eleanor said, “Thank you for your escort. Perhaps I will see you tomorrow.”
“I shall make it happen.” Montagu bowed. “Until then, my lady.”
Lady Eleanor inclined her head. “My lord.”
“I will see you tomorrow as well, my ladies.” Lord St. Albans included Madeline in his comment.
“Until then.” Alice left with her sisters. Had Lord Montagu been flirting with her?
“Dear me,” Madeline said jokingly as they reached Worthington House. “You two already have gentlemen interested in you, and there is no one for me.”
“I am not sure about that.” Alice dismounted. “I think Lord St. Albans is a bit too . . . too”—she frowned as she thought—“I cannot find the right word. Worldly? That might be it. He seems too experienced in capturing a lady’s attention.” She waited until her sisters were ready to enter the house. “I think I shall ask Matt about him.”
CHAPTERFOUR
Giff watched Lady Alice ride down the street. Their meeting had gone extremely well. Physically she was the type of female that attracted him. Fair hair, eyes that reminded him of the sky on a cloudless summer day. Her close-fitting habit had given him a good idea of what lay beneath. He’d known he would find her enticing. Lady Alice’s breeding was obviously unexceptionable. Of course, he’d have to test her character, and it was early days. He’d do well to meet a number of young ladies before making a decision. Marriage was for life. “Mind if I join you for breakfast again?”
Montagu glanced over as if he’d forgotten Giff was present. “Not at all.”
When they strolled into the breakfast room in Montagu House, Montagu’s mother and sister, Lady Lytton, were breaking their fast. He and Lytton set about filling their plates. Unfortunately, just as Montagu was about to take his seat, his sister reminded him about an early vote at the Lords and he departed, leaving Giff with the ladies.
“Good morning.” He bowed to them and took a seat.
Lady Lytton gave him a calculated gaze over the rim of her cup. She obviously wanted information and had decided Giff was the one to give it to her. It was soon clear she was interested in Lady Alice’s sister for her brother. Having been on the Town for several years, he knew exactly how much information to impart. Not only that, but he wanted to find out what they knew about Lady Alice. “He seems to want a lady of only moderate intelligence.”
Lady Lytton looked as if she wanted to roll her eyes. “Did you tell him that was a mistake?”
“Not I. There is no point in telling a man something he must discover on his own.” Giff smiled to himself. “I did suggest that if he wanted a stupid woman, he must make sure not to show his own intelligence or it might frighten her away.”
Lady Montagu laughed. “Oh my.” She waved her hand in front of her face. “This I cannot wait to see.”
