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Emily’s smile broadened. “Perhaps you could supply a reference, Lord Asquith?”
Asquith pursed his lips.
“You cannot recommend her to just anyone,” Nettie said. “Whoever you choose must be, or soon become, our boon companion.”
Emily tilted her head. “Wouldn’t it be lovely if Lenora were to marry someone we all already know well?”
Nettie leaned in. “Someone with whom we can be at ease...”
“Someone who would not have to apply,” Millie added.
Emily chuckled. “Or require a reference.”
“Eliza,” he said, “make them stop.”
Eliza shrugged. “I would, but your expression is far too entertaining.”
He slanted her a narrow-eyed glare.
Eliza continued, “You look almost as if you already have someone in mind for Lenora.”
Of course, he did. But he couldn’t bring himself to confess his changed feelings. First, he must “apply” to Lenora himself.
“Don’t be absurd,” he answered them all.
“Wait a moment...” Eliza frowned. “Asquith, why aren’t you escorting Lenora and your mother right now?”
He paled. “Are they out?”
“We passed their waiting carriage,” Cassie said. “And, if you’re not with them, what brings you to Bond Street?”
“I—I, ah, needed to shop.”
The ladies turned and glanced up at the sign.
“For stationery?” Millie asked.
Asquith blinked. “Am I not permitted to do so on my own?”
Millie shrugged. “I’ve just never known you to be a discerning correspondent. I’d imagine foolscap would do for you.”
Cassie added, “If you have decided to refine your tastes, you might have sent around a note. We ladies excel at stationery recommendations.”
Nettie waved a package. “I just bought some in coral pink.”
“Pink?” he asked, astonished.
“A scarce hue,” Cassie explained. “We went to three other stores before we finally found the shade.”
“Though Nettie won’t admit it,” Emily said, “I think she wished to delay us long enough to leave us famished.”
“Why would I do that?” Nettie asked.
“An excuse could suggest a stop at Gunter’s, of course.”
Nettie glanced heavenward. “Famished is an unnecessary qualification. And one never needs an excuse for pastry.”
“Or cherry ice,” Millie added. “A spoonful would be perfect right now.”
