Page 59 of Courting the Vicar’s Daughter

Harry looked from one brother-in-law to the other, then at Lucas who nodded. He was surrounded by irritating, well-intentioned relatives. Perhaps having everyone come for Christmas had not been the best idea.

His eyes sought out Daisy’s form on the dance floor, and he watched as Christian expertly led her through the steps.

“Oh, stop staring and ask me to dance, Harry.” Julia put her arm through his, and Harry sighed. It seemed he had little choice but to put aside his plan and let his family take over, at least for the time being.

“Harry,” Julia said when their dance had finished. “I want to tell you how proud I am of you.”

That brought his attention away from Daisy changing from Christian to Nathaniel’s arm. “You are?”

“All of us are,” she said, her smile as serene as ever. “It is obvious you have found a place of real purpose, and you are building a strong foundation for your future. And your future family.” She stood on her toes, placing a kiss on his cheek, then she stepped away and Christine took her place.

It seemed he was to dance with his sisters while their husbands danced with the woman he loved. Harry chuckled and escorted Christine to the floor.

§

Although being asked to dance by the rather intimidating Earl of Ivyford surprised Daisy, she found him to be a pleasant partner. He put her completely at ease, asking her questions about the girls she would begin teaching in a fortnight.

“I greatly respect what you are doing, Miss Ames. Harry has told me of your plans. I think he told everyone in London of what you are attempting to do. You ought to know,” he added while they stood and waited for their turn to move down the line again, “there are many who have taken notice of his interest in education, too.”

“Really?” she asked, raising her eyebrows at him. “What do you mean?”

His lordship’s lips moved upward. “I should not be surprised if he is asked to join the ranks of the politicians in a few short years. Our nation is increasingly aware of the need for better education for the poor.”

Daisy tilted her head to the side, studying the earl with interest. “Are you attempting to impress me with Mr. Devon’s prospects?”

Lord Ivyford shook his head. “Harry needs no help from me, Miss Ames.”

Then it was Doctor Hasting’s turn to escort her through the figures of the dance. After a small exchange of pleasantries, the doctor lowered his voice and leaned nearer her. “I must admit, I have been concerned for Harry’s welfare for some time. He did not have very much direction. Since meeting you, he has embraced his responsibilities in a way that ensures his success. Thank you for that.”

Daisy blushed at the praise. “Mr. Devon is a good man. He found his way on his own, I am certain.”

The doctor’s smile was knowing. “It is fascinating how quickly a gentleman can find his way when inspired by a woman.”

Then Mr. Gilbert claimed her hand. His usual friendly demeanor set her at ease, and he did not attempt to speak to her of Harry until he escorted her to Lord Annesbury. Just before giving her hand to the earl, he said, “Harry is a fortunate man to hold your esteem, Miss Ames.”

She was blushing when she turned to the Earl of Annesbury, who looked as though being granted her hand was a great pleasure.

“Miss Ames, you are most popular this evening. People are beginning to comment.” His lips twitched with humor. As she had known Lord Annesbury for the whole of her life, Daisy was not nearly so intimidated by him as she had been by the Earl of Ivyford.

“Two peers asking me to dance, a distinguished gentleman from the neighborhood, and a celebrated doctor from Bath also taking my hand would likely make people suspicious.” She bit her bottom lip to keep from grinning. “Of course, as I have been in the company of Mr. Devon a great deal of late, and each of you have ties to him, I would wager most are watching Mr. Devon with equal interest.”

His lordship laughed and exchanged hands with another woman on the floor before appearing in front of Daisy again. “You do not mind that we are making a spectacle of you?”

Daisy shook her head. “Not at all, my lord.” She turned to find Harry along the line. Though she had not glanced his way before, attempting to give her full attention to her partners, she had known exactly where he was in the room at each moment.

Harry caught her eye and she watched his expression change from contentment to something else. His eyes darkened, his pleasant smile changed to an expectant, peaceful sort of look. Though they were half a room away, she could feel his affection in that one glance. Her heart replied in kind to the look of love.

“I thought I might torture Harry further by asking Marcus to dance with you,” the earl said, bringing her attention back to him. He grinned at her, his blue eyes sparkling. “But I think it best you step outside for a little fresh air after all your dancing.”

Then he took her arm and guided her to the wide doors leading to the terrace. A moment later, Harry appeared, the Countess of Annesbury on his arm.

“My lord and cousin, your wife wishes to speak with you.” Then Harry’s eyes met hers and she could not look away.

“Excellent,” he lordship said. “Miss Ames has need of some fresh air. An exchange of partners seems to be in order.”

Harry’s hand took hers, warm through their gloves, and then they stepped outside. Daisy did not care who was watching or what they might say. They stayed within sight of the open door, as was proper, the cold winter air cooling the heat in her cheeks. They kept their backs to the ballroom.

“I feel I must apologize for my family,” Harry said, bringing them to the railing overlooking the snow-covered gardens. The warmth from the ballroom lingered, keeping Daisy from truly feeling the cold.