Esther smiled and waved at Minnie who gave her a shy smile in return. The two gentlemen talking to her seemed to stare at her lips enraptured. But Minnie and wanton should never be mentioned together.
“Anyway,” Mother said, putting her glasses back in her purse, “let her keep her barons and viscounts. We’re aiming high today. I’m going to introduce you to His Grace, the Duke of Richmond. His father died less than a year ago, and His Grace should be here today. He hasn’t made many public appearances as of yet. He’s a busy man. But if he’s here, you’re going to meet him.”
Esther followed with her gaze a footman carrying a tray loaded with cheese and watercress sandwiches. Her stomach rumbled softly at the scent of smoked salmon wafting from another tray.
“Impressive.”
“You aren’t listening to me.” Mother shot her a glare. “I did my research.”
“Which means you listened to every gossip you could.”
“Among other things, His Grace is a renowned swordsman. He recently won the Fencing Queen’s Cup. He’s such a brilliant swordsman that everyone knows him as The Great.”
Reluctantly, she took a glass of water from another footman’s tray. “Since when have you been interested in fencing?”
“Since it can make you a duchess.”
“You want me to start fencing? I would love to learn how to wield a sword, but I’m not fond of blood.”
Mother nodded at another lady. “I want him to become your suitor. Every sensible mother in the kingdom wishes for the duke to marry her daughter.”
“I have no idea who he is.” She couldn’t completely remove her frustration from her voice. Surely life was more than searching for a husband because otherwise, she was facing some miserable years, given her lack of suitors. “Tell me more about him.”
“They say he’s unbearable and arrogant.”
“And you want him to be my husband?”
Mother waved dismissively. “Questionable traits don’t matter.”
“Why aren’t you so understanding towards me?”
“Good gracious.” Mother sped up. “He’s over there. Quick.”
Esther nearly tripped on the gravel path as her mother dragged her forwards.
“Esther, quick. You’re so fast when you play cricket, and now you can’t walk.”
“Because I don’t know where we’re going. I don’t even know what he looks like.”
“Over there. Next to that plant with red flowers.”
“The blond-haired gentleman in a green suit?”
“Yes…” Mother sounded hesitant.
Esther searched the garden but couldn’t see him. “Bother. He’s gone.”
“We must hurry.” Mother was in full pursuit.
“You know I’m not fond of strict etiquette, but should we hound him like two officers chasing a thief?”
“He’s so fast. He’s rounded the corner.”
“Ouch! Mother!”
Mother was yanking her forwards none too gently. “Quick, or Minnie will get to him before we do.”
“Even if we get to him first and he meets Minnie later, he might still prefer her to me.”
