Good Lord, she was strict. “I’ve never heard either he or his father is under the hatches, but I will discover anything you want to know.”
“Well, we must make sure. Alice was on her way to falling in love with a scoundrel before Mary and I interceded.”
This was it. Falling in with Theo’s schemes was how he’d become part of her life. Once he did that, he would convince her to marry him. “We should make a list of what I need to find out.”
She graced him with one of her wide smiles. “Perhaps you should join us for tea.”
“I would be delighted.” They rode on a little further, keeping watch over her friend and his as they did. “Are you attending the opening of Almack’s?”
“Yes. Grace received the vouchers shortly after we arrived. She arranged for Sarah and her mother to be approved as well.”
“Would you honor me with a set?” He tried to breathe, but it was harder than he’d thought.
“Yes.” He filled his lungs. “That would be delightful. You are an excellent dancer.”
“You are as well. Shall I ask Miss Pettigrew?”
“Please do. I am certain that after you stand up with her, other gentlemen will find they want to dance with her as well.”
Apparently, Theo was not at all concerned about whether she would be asked for other sets. “I’m sure Marrow will ask both of you as well.”
“How as your ride been?” she asked as they reached their friends.
“Very nice.” Miss Pettigrew smiled. “His lordship has been exceptionally kind.”
Marrow kept his gaze on her as he smiled as well. “I am being nothing of the sort. Mad dashes across the Park are not as enjoyable as meandering around. I almost feel as if I’m in the country again.”
“Do you prefer the country to Town?” she asked.
“I make a habit of coming in order to keep an eye on matters for my father. He prefers the country. But I’m also happy to be home.” His smile widened. “As for you never having been here before, if you allow me, I would enjoy showing you the sights.”
She slanted a slightly panicked look at Theo, who gave an imperceptible nod.What was that about?“If my mother allows.”
“I have an idea,” Theo said. “Sarah, you and your mother should join us for tea this afternoon, and his lordship could join us as well. If no one has other plans that is.”
Miss Pettigrew’s smile blossomed again. “What a perfect idea.” She looked uncertainly at Marrow. “If you would not mind.”
“Not at all. I am completely at your disposal for tea. Thank you for the invitation, my lady.”
Leo got the distinct impression that Marrow was more than merely interested in Miss Pettigrew. “While we’re on the subject of entertainments. Miss Pettigrew, might I beg a set of you at Almack’s.”
A light blush colored her cheeks. “Yes, of course.”
“I must not be behind Chandos.” Marrow bowed. “Would you honor me with a set as well?”
The blush deepened. “That would be lovely.”
He turned to Theo. “My lady, I would ask you as well.”
“Of course.” Her lips curved up. “I would be delighted.”
Leo caught Theo’s twinkling eyes. “This has been a productive and enjoyable morning.”
“It has indeed.” Her eyes indicated her agreement. She glanced at her groom, who nodded. “I believe we should go home now.”
“Oh, yes.” Miss Pettigrew started toward the gate. “My mother will wonder what is keeping me.”
Leo wanted to ask if he could join Theo for breakfast, but he needed to speak with Marrow to ascertain the information she desired of him. Fortunately, she rode next to Leo, leaving Marrow to accompany Miss Pettigrew. “That was neatly done. Inviting them to tea.”
