“That’s because you don’t know her family. They already have one duke and the heir of a duke, and they don’t care at all about a gentlemen’s rank. It is his character that matters, and, of course, his ability to support a family. One must also agree to attend family get-togethers.”
Bolingbroke’s jaw dropped. “You’re joking.”
“I am most certainly not. At present, I am walking a fine line with her ladyship. Thank the deities that her ball is tomorrow.”
“She must be running around like mad. I know my sister did.”
“Not she.” Which was rather odd. “She’s barely mentioned it.” Then again, knowing Theo, she had the whole thing planned months ago and trusted her servants to carry out her wishes.
“How did you find Miss Cunningham?”
“Charming.” Bolingbroke’s countenance softened. “She looks like a fairy princess, but she is extremely practical.” They were almost to Berkeley Square when he said, “They are late coming to town because her grandmother was ill. She had a feeling it was the old lady’s way of getting attention. She went to her grandmother and told her that if she did not recover soon, she would not be able to have her come out.”
Leo barked a laugh. He would have described that as more ruthless than practical. Although, it was quite practical. “I take it there was a miraculous recovery.”
Bolingbroke grinned. “Within days Miss Cunningham and her mother were making the trip south.”
The landau was out front waiting when they arrived. Theo and Miss Pettigrew were exiting the house, and Marrow was waiting by his horse. Leo dismounted and assisted Theo into the carriage. “I remember the first time I saw this landau. I’d never seen one so large.”
“The children begged to come, but they would have to have maids with them, and that would be a distraction.”
“I can see how it would be. Let’s be off to collect Miss Cunningham.”
Theo gave the coachman his leave to start the horses, and they made their way to Green Street where the Cunninghams had leased a house for the Season.
Once they’d arrived, a footman went to the door and knocked.
A minute or so later, Miss Cunningham descended the short steps to the pavement. “Good afternoon.” When she saw Bolingbroke, who’d dismounted, she blushed prettily. “My lord, how nice of you to join us.”
He offered his arm and assisted her into the carriage. “It is entirely my pleasure, Miss Cunningham.”
Leo saw the excited look she flashed the other two ladies as she settled onto the bench. Theo and Miss Pettigrew smiled in response.
They made slow progress around the Park, which was probably intended. Leo would have preferred to have Theo to himself, but he could see that Bolingbroke and Miss Cunningham were quickly forming a bond of some sort.
As they headed back toward the gate, he had an idea. “Would everyone like to go to Gunter’s?”
“I would love it,” Theo said immediately.
“As would I,” Miss Pettigrew agreed.
Miss Cunningham appeared confused. “What is Gunter’s?”
“They have the most excellent ices,” Bolingbroke said. “I highly recommend them.”
“In that case, how can I refuse.” She glanced at Leo. “Thank you, your grace.”
Leo considered the possibility that he’d have to open an account at the tea shop, then his lordship sidled beside him. “I will pay for Miss Cunningham’s ice.”
“As you wish.”
“Miss Cunningham,” Theo said. “I would like to invite you to my come out ball tomorrow evening. I shall have an invitation sent around when I arrive at home.”
“I would be delighted.” The lady’s smile widened. “Thank you so much.”
He glanced at Bolingbroke and raised a brow, silently asking if he had been invited as well. Bolingbroke nodded.
Leo shot a grin at Theo, who returned the smile. They worked so well together. He prayed that she saw that as well.
