Page 34 of Counting on Love

Chapter Ten

They gathered in the drawing room for introductions before luncheon. Reginald thought his acting was acceptable. It required only his being courteous, quiet, and uncomfortable in new company—his natural state. A little added uncomfortableness drew no attention.

To be charming was Jasper’s natural state. He focused upon the Duchess first and foremost, while complimenting both the young ladies equally. He did not make it obvious that he had brought Lady Georgiana here for the purpose of wooing her, which seemed to set her at ease. It must have been an awkward business for her as well. Miss Fogbotham was reserved but had a laugh that suggested she would be delightful once she settled. Their mothers appeared sincerely pleased to find themselves in one another’s company.

It was only Crispin who didn’t play his part well. His responses were brusque, and he remained standing while everyone else was seated. When they rose to move to the dining room, Crispin excused himself. “I’m afraid I’ve developed a headache. I’ll take luncheon in my room.”

Crispin did not get headaches.

Mother frowned and excused him. Jasper, too, looked annoyed but hid it before their guests might notice. Jasper offered the Duchess his arm to lead her in first.

In the general bustle from room to room, Reginald found Lady Georgiana at his elbow, so he offered it to her.

She whispered, “Lord Taverston does rise early. He was in the breakfast parlor. He’d been in his study all morning.”

Father’s study.

He whispered back, “What did you do?”

“Fudged. Smiled prettily, showed him the sheets, and asked him what music he most particularly enjoyed.”

Smiled prettily. She would make a fine coquette. Except…

“Were you reading Principia?” He kept to a whisper.

Her brow clouded. “Reading what?” She cleared her throat softly. “Do you mean that fat book in the library? It put me right to sleep.” Then she squeezed his arm. “Stop whispering.” And said aloud, “Why, yes, Mr. Taverston. This is the perfect time of year for a visit to the country.”

“You’ll enjoy Chaumbers, I am sure.”

She had told the truth earlier. She was no better a liar than he was.

Mother had arranged the seating, placing Lady Georgiana beside Jasper. The numbers were horribly uneven, so she moved Reginald between the Duchess and Miss Fogbotham. They were both accomplished conversationalists. His only complaint was that he had very little chance to listen in on what Jasper and Lady Georgiana were saying. Her expression was politely pleased, though not animated.

After luncheon, it was still raining, so they returned to the drawing room and played a few hands of whist. Reginald suggested speculation next, but Jasper shot him down.

“You never let anyone else win.”

Crispin entered the room. “Billiards?”

Lady Georgiana nudged Miss Fogbotham, murmuring something that made her laugh and then shake her head.

Jasper said, “Not billiards. Something the ladies will enjoy.”

They fell into a discussion. He heard Lady Georgiana echo speculation, but the company seemed weary of cards. Reginald rose and sidled up alongside Crispin, who had remained close to the door. Although he had learned it was unwise to question his brother as to the state of his health, nevertheless, he asked, “Headache gone?”

Crispin did not look at him, but said, “I didn’t have a headache.”

“I didn’t think so.”

“I didn’t want Mother glaring at my plate in company.”

That was quite an admission for Crispin. Reginald said, “You can’t take all your meals in your room.”

Then Crispin did spare him a look. “If you must know, I had a boil on my arse. Adam lanced it. I should be quite comfortable by dinnertime. Satisfied?”

“All except for the part where your valet lances your boil.”

Crispin’s eyes glinted for a second, then he shrugged. “His talents are legion. Would you like to exchange Barclay for him?”