Page 30 of Watching the Earl

Sophie laughed. “I’m afraid I did not request them, but I can if you like.”

Felicity shook her head. “I’m sure whatever you’re serving will be perfect. Now, I want to know all about your Season so far, Georgie. We have not seen you about.”

“That’s because I have to be careful not to reveal my secret,” Georgina grimaced. “I’m so glad you know, because that means I can talk freely with you.”

“And what of Lord Durham? Is he acceptable?”

Georgina nodded. “Very. I’ve been fortunate. I admit, I’m anxious to leave my family’s home and have one of my own. Just think, in less than a sennight, I’ll be able to play hostess to everyone. That is, if I can come back to London after the wedding.”

“Oh, but you must.” Felicity slapped her hand onto the arm of her chair.

Georgina was about to explain when the butler opened the door and Sophie rose to greet her next guests.

“Where is she? Where’s Georgie?”

At the sound of Rose’s voice, Georgina jumped up and ran to the entryway and straight into her friend’s arms.

Rose set her back. “You look none the worse for wear since last I saw you. Is everything still well, then?”

“It is.” Georgina smiled, too happy to keep it inside. “Lord Durham brought me here and is even now in the study visiting Lord Tamworth.”

Rose glanced down the corridor. “Excellent. Then let us hope they have much to discuss.”

“Don’t forget about me.”

At Lady Arabella’s voice, Georgina turned to find her friend being wheeled in by a footman.

Georgina extended her hands. “Arabella. I didn’t know you were in Town.”

“Rose has me staying with her. I do believe I’m as much her patient as her friend.”

“That is not true.”

Arabella laughed. “Very well, then, more patient than friend.”

Rose sighed. “I’m the one who needs patience with a friend like you disparaging my good name.” Despite the words, she grinned.

Georgina couldn’t stop smiling. It was only among these women that she could truly be herself.

Sophie waved them forward. “Come. Tea and hot chocolate will be served, and we have much catching up to do.”

As Rose took over wheeling Arabella into the parlor to greet Felicity, Georgina walked behind with Sophie. “Will Ellie be coming?”

“No, she had to cancel. Her husband was under the weather.”

“Then we’d best not tell Rose, or she’ll rush over there and insist on treating him.”

“You’re right. Ellie said that he’s getting better, so there is no need for us to worry.”

“And Dory?” Georgina truly enjoyed Dory’s wandering conversations.

“Alas, she had promised Lord Harewood she would help his mother choose books to add to her newly renovated library.”

“I do hope I my future mother-in-law and I can visit the aviary together, and maybe shop as well.”

Sophie held her arm out toward the parlor. “I’m sure you will.”

Georgina returned to her chair in the parlor while everyone took a seat and the footman brought in the hot drinks. Sophie poured as Arabella spoke.