“I am too.” In fact, Charlie had never been happier. They strolled to the hall and up the stairs. “Theo will make the right choice, whomever she picks.”
“Intellectually, I agree. The problem is that she was so young when my father died, I’ve been more a parent to her than a brother. I hope I can stand back and trust her.”
“You’ll do what’s right.” Charlie motioned to the nursery door. “You always have done.”
CHAPTER TWO
Theo, Grace, and Matt spent four days at Stanwood Place and gave in to the pleads of their two older children to be allowed to remain until their Uncle Charlie and Aunt Oriana came to Town. Mary insisted on staying in order to help with the new babies.
She hugged Theo as their brother and sister entered the coach. “I almost forgot to tell you that Sarah Pettigrew is looking forward to seeing you in Town.” Mary gave Theo one of her “significant looks.”
“You are the only other lady making her come out whom she knows.”
“I will make sure that she feels comfortable.” Tears pricked Theo’s eyes, and she blinked rapidly to dispel them. Mary took care of everyone. This was the first time they had not traveled to Town together. “I cannot wait until you join us.”
“I am looking forward to it.” Mary hugged Theo again. “You had better go. I will see you soon.”
Theo glanced out the back window as they left the drive. Mary stood there watching until Theo could no longer see her sister.
Grace leaned over and patted her knee. “I know you miss her, and she will miss you. However, you must remember that this is your Season. She still has three years before she can make her come out.”
“I know.” Theo took out a handkerchief and blew her nose. “And I knew this was coming. I just did not expect it to be so hard.”
“In some ways it is much like the time when Madeline and Eleanor wed before Alice,” Grace said.
Theo had forgotten about how unhappy Alice had been when her twin, Eleanor, and their sister Madeline had wed and left home. It seemed a very long time ago. Alice was so miserable that she almost married the wrong gentleman. At least, Theo was starting out alone. That had to be a little easier. “You are right.” She should have hugged Mary again and smiled. “Sarah Pettigrew will be there. That is one person I will know.”
Grace nodded. “I am certain you will become fast friends.”
“Yes.” Theo thought back to how Lord Pettigrew had attempted to deny Sarah a Season by claiming that she was betrothed to Charlie. Fortunately, it turned out that it was a lie. That was when Theo and Sarah had met and become friendly. “I believe you are correct. We must find Sarah’s address. When do we visit Madam Lisette? And when is Lady Bellamny’s soirée for young ladies?”
“I have their direction.” Grace grinned. “Fortunately, they have leased a house not far from us. You have your first fitting in two days, and Lady Bellamny’s soirée is in a week. That will give you time to have at least one suitable gown. I sent your measurements ahead. I also ensured that Sarah was invited to the soirée.”
“Excellent.” Theo was starting to feel better. Grace had thought of everything. Leaning back against the plush squabs, Theo resolved to have the best Season she could. She would find a gentleman who loved her and whom she loved in return. Thiswasher Season, and she would enjoy it.
They spent that night at the inn they normally used, then continued on to Town in the morning.
The day after arriving Theo and Grace called on the Pettigrews.
“The Countess of Worthington and Lady Theodora Vivers,” the butler intoned as he led them to the parlor.
“Theo!” Sarah jumped up and ran to Theo as Lady Pettigrew admonished her daughter for her exuberance. “I am so glad you are here. I do not know anyone else and some of the other ladies I encountered have not been welcoming.”
Humph. That was not at all acceptable. “I am happy you are here as well.” Theo twined her arm with Sarah’s. “Let us make plans.” Theo recalled all the places she saw during her times in Town. “There are so many things to do. Before the Season begins, we should visit the Tower, and some of the museums, as well as Burlington Arcade. My older sisters said it is the best inexpensive shopping for items such as fans, hair combs, and so many other things. Pin money”—she raised a brow—“only goes so far.”
“That is so true.” Sarah clapped her hands together. “It seemed to last forever at home, but I imagine London is much more expensive.”
“That is exactly what my sisters said. And you require more things. We are no longer in the schoolroom.” Theo was glad she had come, and she was determined to discover who the unkind ladies were. “And we must visit Davis’s Amphitheatre where they have trick horse riders. We shall have so much fun!”
She turned to Grace. “What else do we have to look forward to?”
“We must not forget the theater and opera. However, Vauxhall will wait until later,” she said. “To which modiste are you giving your custom?” she asked Lady Pettigrew.
The lady heaved a sigh. “That is a question we have not resolved.” She pulled a face. “Apparently, the one who made my gowns is no longer in business, and the others to which I have been recommended do not have time.”
Grace pressed her lips together. “Allow me to see what I can do.
I will notify you soon.”
