Page 61 of Watching the Earl

He’d forgotten that had already been scheduled, along with a picnic in Hyde Park, a recital, and a visit to a private aviary on the weekend. “I’m anxious to see you in it.”

She cocked her head. “I think you’d rather see me out of it.”

He laughed, more than pleased at how much she enjoyed that side of their marriage. “Indeed.”

“Now I must visit the milliners to purchase matching hats, and I need to restock my perfume. That is, if that’s acceptable?”

He offered her his arm. “That is quite acceptable. And wasn’t there a book you wished to purchase?” He opened the door for her and they strode out onto the sidewalk.

“Yes. I can’t believe you remembered. I’d very much like to buy the second volume of Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands. It took me a month to save my pin money for the first volume. Are you sure?”

“I’m sure. In fact, I wish to purchase a book, so it will save me a trip.”

“You do? What book?”

“I won’t know until I see it.” At her bright smile, he knew he’d assuaged any nervousness regarding her needs.

“I thought I heard other customers in the shop, but none were there when I came out. I hope I didn’t inconvenience anyone.”

“It was just your mother and sister, a Mrs. Furzeman.”

Georgina stopped, forcing him to stop as well. “My mother? Did she wonder why I was there?”

“Actually, she wondered why I was there, so I informed her that since she left me to provide your wardrobe, she shouldn’t be surprised.”

“You didn’t.”

“Indeed I did.” He patted her hand. “Don’t worry. She planned to return in a couple hours. Something about the De Viers’ ball at the end of the month.” He hoped his change in topic would ease Georgina’s mind. He didn’t want her upset over her mother.

“Oh yes, I accepted that invitation on our behalf. You did promise me two dances.”

He started them forward again as she relaxed. “I did, and I look forward to them. I understand this ball is rather special.”

As he hoped, his wife went on to explain what he already knew about the De Viers’ ball, which was held outside.

The rest of the afternoon was spent shopping, with a brief stop for tea and biscuits. By the time they arrived back at the townhouse, his wife, rather than being in need of rest, seemed to be more anxious to add to her day. He handed his hat to Haines.

“I’m going to talk to Mrs. Newman about the back courtyard. I believe a few more plants would invite more birds to nest.”

Not surprised that she had another task on her mind, now that he knew better, he gave his approval. “I agree, but since we don’t own the house yet, we should wait until I’m sure I can procure it.”

Her eyes widened. “Oh, I had completely forgotten this is rented. It’s such a comfortable place, and I like the décor. If we did own it, I wouldn’t change a thing.”

“Then I shall make my offer difficult to refuse.” He offered his arm to escort her upstairs to change.

As they came to her room, she turned to him. “You did say I could redecorate my room at Crestfield. Did you wish to have yours decorated too?”

He almost nodded before remembering that he’d given orders to have the lord’s chambers readied for him. Did he wish those changed?

“I don’t have to. I only ask to be helpful.”

“I…I don’t know.” He opened her bedroom door. “I will think upon it.” With that, he left her and walked to his own door. He hadn’t even a chance to ring for Gibson when his dressing room door opened and Georgina stepped in, their rooms connected by the dressing rooms.

“I have a question for you, if you have a moment.”

“Of course, please.” He gestured to the wingback chair before the cold fireplace.

His wife settled into it then adjusted the skirts of her dress for a good thirty seconds. Obviously, whatever was on her mind was important. He leaned against the fireplace mantel and patiently waited.