“Good night to you.”
Payne entered as Mary left. “Let’s get you to bed. The sun is rising earlier each day, and you need your sleep.”
Theo supposed she should start taking the Season more seriously. Dark circles under her eyes would not be acceptable.
The next morning, Theo was mounting Epione when Chandos rode up and executed the most elegant bow she had ever seen from the back of a horse. “Good morning, my lady.”
“Good morn to you. That was nicely done.” She turned her mare toward Hill Street.
“It occurred to me that using the social graces I possess would be useful.” He caught up to her and rode by her side. Mick and the other groom followed behind.
Useful for what? What did it matter? “Yes. I came to something of the same conclusion last night after Mary and I spoke.”
Chandos directed a sympathetic look toward Theo. “What did you talk about?”
“She made it clear that our activities this Season will not often cross paths. She also told me that it was my duty to find a gentleman to marry.”
That was excellent news. One of his major difficulties with her was that she hadn’t been certain that she wanted to wed. “What did you think about that?”
“Augusta was the only other of us who had not wished to marry.”
“Because she wanted to attend university.” Leo watched as Theo bit her bottom lip, and he wished he could kiss it.
“Yes. I, on the other hand, do not have that excuse. In fact, the only reason I had was that Mary would not be able to come out with me.” Theo shrugged lightly. “It was rather silly, actually.”
“I don’t believe that.” He infused his voice with as much certainty as he could. “I think what you have been feeling is understandable. Every time I visited when you and she were there together, you were like two peas in a pod. Always together. Always whispering.” She glanced at him, and he grinned.
“You were right when you said it was good that she has a friend with her.”
“And so do you. Isn’t that the reason you befriended Miss Pettigrew? Deep down you knew you did not want to be alone?”
Theo’s rosy lips formed a thin line, but her expression was thoughtful. “Charlotte was the one who suggested it, but yes. I agreed because I thought we could help one another.”
They were in sight of the Pettigrew residence. “Look who is here before us.”
Theo’s eyes widened. “Marrow. Did you know he would be here?”
“No. However, it doesn’t surprise me.” They slowed their horses. “It also wouldn’t surprise me if there is a betrothal announcement soon.”
“That would be lovely.” Theo’s smile was a bit wistful. Whether it was for her friend or for herself he didn’t know. Still, with Sarah taken care of, Theo could turn her talents to another lady or perhaps a gentleman who required help.
“I think so as well.” If only it could be the same with her and him. Then again, he’d agreed that she needed to have a Season. “Let’s join them.”
They rode to the gate together and were happy to find the Park empty. As before he and Theo raced to the oak tree. Asclepius still showed no disposition to race ahead of the mare. “My mother received an invitation to the viewing today.”
Theo gave him a droll look. “This private viewing is becoming larger and larger. Will you escort her?”
“I thought I’d come to Worthington House, and we could travel over with your family. I wonder if Oriana has received an invitation.”
“I do not know.” Theo tilted her head to the side. “I rather doubt it, but the card Grace received instructed her to bring the family. That includes Charlie and Oriana.”
“I suppose it must.” They walked their horses toward the Serpentine. “Almack’s is this week. Is there anything else?”
“The first ball of the Season at Lady Harrington’s.”
Leo hoped he had received a card. If not, he’d contact the lady’s husband and request one. Then he remembered a piece of advice he’d been given. “May I have the supper dance?”
Theo gave him an odd look. I was a combination of curiosity and disbelief. “Yes, you may.”
