“That is awful,” Marjorie muttered. “Poor Lord Rochester.”
“It was a shame, because he was engaged to another woman at the time,” her mother said. “He was forced to break off that engagement, and the young woman was so devastated that she withdrew from Society.”
“I can’t believe Lady Rochester was so desperate to wed that she threw herself at a man who did not want her,” Henrietta stated.
“It is a sad tale,” her mother acknowledged. “They reside at separate residences when they are in London, and her husband carries on with his mistress in public.”
“What a cruel thing to do to someone,” Marjorie said.
“Some people have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to achieve their purposes,” her mother remarked. “You should be mindful to remember that.”
“I would never be so cold and unfeeling as to ruin someone’s life in such a fashion,” Henrietta said.
“Desperate people tend to do desperate things,” her mother pressed, giving her a pointed look. “No young woman in her right mind would wish to be a spinster and become a drain on her family’s expenses.”
Not wishing to hear another lecture from her mother, Henrietta abruptly rose from her seat on the settee. “I think it is time that I rest before dinner.”
“Must you go?” Marjorie asked.
Henrietta yawned, hoping it looked convincing enough. “I’m afraid I had a fitful night of sleep,” she stated as she walked over to the door.
“I hope you don’t intend to miss supper,” her mother said.
“Of course not,” Henrietta replied as she departed from the drawing room.
She was walking across the entry hall when a knock came at the door. She watched as Walters opened the door and ushered in Lord Featherstone.
Lord Featherstone came to stand in the entry hall and met her gaze. He gave her a sad smile and approached her. “Dear Miss Henrietta,” he said, “how are you faring?”
“I am well.”
He stopped in front of her, his eyes roaming her face. “Do not let those gossips bully you,” he encouraged. “You are a beautiful young woman and they are just jealous of you.”
“I appreciate you saying so,” she replied, uncomfortable with his praise.
Reaching out, he placed his gloved hand on her arm and rubbed his thumb over it in a familiar way. “If you ever need someone to talk to, do not hesitate to seek me out, my dear.”
Henrietta stared back at him, surprised by his bold advances. “I am sure that won’t be necessary, but I thank you nonetheless.”
“You will find I am a good listener, amongst other things.” He smiled flirtatiously.
Henrietta took a step back and was pleased when his hand dropped to his side. “Aren’t you here to see my sister?” she asked.
“I am.”
“Then you mustn’t keep her waiting any longer.”
His smile slipped. “Quite right,” he said with a slight bow. “I have enjoyed our little chat, Miss Henrietta.”
Lord Featherstone spun on his heel and headed towards the drawing room. Once he had disappeared into the room, Henrietta let out a shudder. Now she needed a long soak to wipe off the feel of his hand on her arm.
With any luck, her sister would see through Lord Featherstone’s act soon enough, and she would never have to endure that insufferable man again.
“I think I’m in love,” Marjorie said as she barged into Henrietta’s bedchamber.
Henrietta glanced up from the book she was reading. “Who exactly is it that you love?”
Marjorie gave her an exasperated look. “Lord Featherstone.”
