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CHAPTERFOUR
Parker watchedas the sun set outside the music room windows. The scene was truly lovely.
The pinks of the sky lit the roses in the most stunning way. He’d had so little opportunity of late to sit back and enjoy life.
It had been work and toil.
Even Lady Greenburg’s party had been a rush of courting as he’d tried to find a woman to make his countess.
But now he knew that this trip had been for naught. And since he’d promised not to go home without a solid plan, he was determined to take this day and just enjoy.
A sunset. A fine meal, and perhaps, some games or other entertainment.
Tomorrow, he could begin worrying and toiling once again.
He leaned back in his seat, conversation swirling about him in the most pleasant way as he took a sip of the beverage that had been placed in his hand. Lemonade. Delightful.
Across from him, Millie sat smiling as she nodded at something Lady Greenburg said. He could see why they considered her a promising prospect. Not only was she lovely to behold but her manner was always so pleasing.
He’d found himself telling her things about himself he’d not shared with anyone else.
“Oh, Millie,” Lady Farthington said over the din. “You must play for us.” Then she beamed at the group. “Her pianoforte skills are exceptional.”
Next to him Tillie nodded. “They really are.”
“Do you play?” he asked, just trying to make conversation.
Tillie wrinkled her nose. “Technically, yes. But I lack a certain artistry that might make my playing beautiful.”
“And Millie?” he asked, because once again, his curiosity about the younger Crosby sister got the better of him.
Tillie chuckled. “Her playing is divine.”
He looked over at Millie, sure his interest was apparent to everyone. He ought to stop but at every turn he found his attention fixed on Millie. He tried to hide it…
But as she moved gracefully toward the instrument, he found himself riveted once again.
“Lord Rangeley.” Lady Greenburg waved at him. “Why don’t you turn the pages for Millie?”
He grimaced, though he quickly hid the look. How had the other woman known to ask him? Was he being that obvious?
But he cleared his throat and stood, following Millie to the pianoforte.
He shouldn’t sit next to her. Shouldn’t lean close.
But to refuse would look equally odd and so he took a seat next to her, instantly catching a whiff of roses.
He’d thought it was the garden earlier but as he shifted a touch closer, he caught the scent again.
Men likely weren’t supposed to have a favorite floral scent. But if he had one, it was roses.
It’s why he’d plucked the bloom. Why he’d tucked it in his pocket after he’d untangled it from Millie’s dress.
Well, that and it reminded him of Millie.
She perched her fingers over the keys, her fingers flexing as she drew in a deep breath.
And then her fingers began to fly.
