Page 86 of Watching the Earl

Philip laid his hand on hers where it rested on his arm. “Have you never been to the De Viers’ ball?”

“No. Mother didn’t feel I would behave as she liked. But I heard everything about it from my classmates.” At his frown, she quickly smiled. “And I’m so glad she didn’t allow me to attend. Now this event will be another I experience with you first.”

He smiled even as he shook his head. “Just when I believe I cannot learn more from you, you say something that truly awes me.”

“How is having a first experience with you awe inspiring?”

He lowered his voice and dipped his head closer to her ear. “Because, Georgina, your ability to appreciate the small things reminds me to do so as well. Just having you on my arm brings me great pride.”

She sighed softly, having never brought anyone else pride. The gown she wore most decidedly helped, as it changed colors with the light. “This shimmering gown you purchased for me is truly inspiring.”

“It does no more than reflect your own beauty.”

“I do believe you’re trying to turn my head.”

He chuckled before whispering, “That’s not the only part of you I hope to turn before the end of the night.”

His reminder had her grinning. “Of course. You promised to dance with me twice at a ball to fulfill our very first bet.”

He straightened, obviously surprised. “Actually, I was thinking of something more private, but you’re correct. I owe you at least two dances.”

“Then you better spread them out.”

At the sound of Rose’s warning, Georgina turned to look behind them and found both Rose and Lady Arabella had arrived. Rose was resplendent in a mauve gown with white lace flowers sewn about the skirts. Arabella wore a pale-yellow gown with golden leaves set along the neckline and trim. “You two look beautiful.” She held her hands out to Rose, then lowered them to grasp Arabella’s.

“Georgie, you look like a Greek goddess.”

She felt herself blush. “Thank you.” She lifted her arm to indicate the decorated lawn and garden. “Is this how you imagined the Elysian Fields?”

“To be truthful, I never imagined them at night, but I do think this would be very close. Lady De Viers truly is a visionary. And though I can’t dance yet, I’m going to enjoy this evening to the fullest in my golden chariot.” Arabella winked. “It’s not every day I get to immerse myself physically in my favorite study.”

Philip nodded. “Lady Arabella, you’ll definitely want to try the punch. I hear it was created to taste like the gods’ nectar.”

“That will be my first stop after viewing my husbandly prospects and all this beautiful décor.” Arabella looked at the footman behind her. “Wheel me over to that fountain. I do believe that’s a human Poseidon standing in it.”

As Arabella was wheeled away, Philip frowned. “Does she expect to attract a suitor?”

At the angry look on Rose’s face, Georgina quickly explained, “Yes, Arabella has always looked on the bright side of any circumstance, and I believe someone will appreciate that.”

“She’s not an invalid, Lord Durham.” Rose had switched to her regal, ladylike self in an instant. “She was simply in a carriage accident and broke both her legs, some ribs, and her arm. She has complete use of her arm now that I have taken over her care, and her ribs and legs are healed.”

Philip didn’t look convinced.

“You’ll have to excuse my husband, Rose,” Georgina interjected. “He’s not aware of how well trained you are, or that all of us will ensure that Arabella marries as she wishes.”

Philip gave a quick nod. “You’re right. I had forgotten about the tight circle of support you all have. It is quite an asset…when it’s not irritating.”

Rose shook her head. “There will be no need for support. At least not in finding her a husband, but perhaps in having her listen to me. I’ve discovered an ancient Greek theory that may help Arabella to walk sooner, but she’s hesitant. If you have a chance, would you see if you can discover why?”

Georgina looked at Philip then at Rose. “Could it not simply be because it is a theory?”

“Do you think so? Hmm, if that is the case, I’ll have to research further to see if it was tested. If I can prove to her it was and it worked, I know she’ll try it. She is quite determined, even though the physicians treat her as an invalid. I’ve got her standing for short periods of time already, so I know she can walk. I just need to devise the best way to build up her strength.”

Rose’s enthusiasm could be overwhelming at times, but that was not something Georgina would ever say, as it would hurt her friend’s feelings. “Remember in philosophy class when we learned that if we can get someone else to believe a good idea was theirs instead of ours that it will be accepted much faster? Maybe you can try that.”

Rose’s eyes widened. “Yes, that just might work.”

Philip took Georgina’s arm. “Now that that’s settled, I believe I need to dance with my wife.”