The Perfect Suitor (Bewildering Love Series) (11 page)

CHAPTER TWELVE

Before the Earl of Devonhurst left the Stonehaven residence, he watched as Lydia invited Eve to join them that evening at their cousin’s soiree. It was strange how his sister took an instant liking to Eve. They acted as if they had been friends for years. With the two of them smiling and laughing, Paxton couldn’t help but wonder what they were discussing. He was contemplating stepping closer to them but decided eavesdropping was definitely not his style. Instead he turned to talk to some ladies who were saying their farewells. Two pretty blondes blushed and giggled as they stopped in front of him. “I hope you ladies had a pleasant time today.”

“Oh, we did, my lord,” the one in the pink day dress said, smiling up at him adoringly.

“Come along, girls.” The mother of the two ladies quickly rushed her young impressionable daughters out of the reach of his often discussed charm. “Good day to you, Lord Devonhurst,” the woman muttered as she bustled passed.

“Good day, Lady Asherton” Paxton said, holding back his laughter. He had not taken an innocent to his bed since he was a gangly adolescent, but it seemed the members of the gentry liked to believe he had the dastardliest reputation.
C’est la vie
. People liked to believe the worst in the
ton
. He suspected it made dull lives more interesting.

***

“So, you see, my cousin, the duchess loves to hold extravagant affairs, and I know we will have fun, that is if you don’t mind that we will be escorted by my brother.” Eve could tell Paxton’s sister was trying not to smile at the latter half of her sentence. Evelyn was all too aware that Lydia suspected she had feelings for the Earl of Devonhurst.

Mother came up to them nodding her approval. “I think you should go, dear. That is not to say I won’t miss your company, but your father is due to arrive this evening, and I could use a rest from all the activity. The Arlington’s soirees are always a smashing success. And since Lady Lydia has kindly offered to accompany you…”

“But if Father is coming home, I should stay to welcome him,” Eve stated. Although she didn’t wish to stay home this evening, she didn’t want her mother suspecting how badly she wished to go to the soiree with the Earl of Devonhurst.

“Oh, nonsense. You can see your father in the morning. Besides, he is always tired after a trip.”

“Please say you’ll join us, Eve. It will be a splendid time!” Lydia said in a cajoling manner. Although Lydia appeared to like her, Eve was also aware that Paxton’s sister had a penchant for cards and thus it was possible Lydia hoped Eve would serve as a distraction for her brother, allowing Lady Lydia plenty of time to gamble without the earl peering over her shoulder.

“If you don’t think Father would mind, then I would like to accompany them.” Eve looked forward to spending an entire evening with Paxton, even if it was as friends.

“Who will be escorting you?” The viscountess addressed her question to Lydia and Evelyn wanted to groan aloud. Clearly her mother had not heard that part of Lydia’s invitation.

“My brother,” said Lydia without a hint of a smile, which had Eve wanting to applaud her fine acting skills.

Mother nodded and looked to Eve. She was anticipating her mother’s change of heart in regard to her attendance, but surprisingly, she said nothing further. Eve hurriedly walked Lady Lydia to the door where Paxton, Cole, and Rebecca were waiting.

“We shall pick you up around nine, then.” Paxton put his arm around his sister’s shoulders and turned her toward the door.

“I’m looking forward to tonight. Thank you all for visiting today.” Eve turned back to the parlor and was glad to see the only people left were Lady Spritewater and her nieces.

“I’d say that was quite a crush for an afternoon gathering.” Lady Spritewater stood, shaking the wrinkles out of her billowing skirts. “Well, ladies, we’d best be on our way. Thank our hostesses.”

After they thanked them, Mother walked the last of their guests to the door. “We are glad you ladies could attend. We will have to meet for tea soon.”

Once they took their leave, Mother entered the parlor and sat down to rest on the settee, kicking her heels up on a nearby hassock. She likely would have leaned back against her seat if not for the enormous size of her hat. The servants had finished clearing all the glasses and remnants of lunch out of the room.

“It turned out wonderfully. I’d say you are definitely a success.” Her mother smiled.

“I was surprised by the number of visitors we received.” Eve sat down on a plush tan chair. After they gossiped about the various visitors for a few minutes, they fell silent.

“It sure was nice of Lady Lydia to invite you to accompany her and her brother this evening. The Duke and Duchess of Arlington only have a soiree once a year, and only the affluent are invited. The fact that the duchess was here in our home speaks well of you and of our entire family. You are held in high regard, my dear. I’m proud of you.”

“Thank you.” It felt wonderful to hear her mother’s praise.

“Lady Lydia seems lovely.”

Eve groaned inwardly. She knew exactly what was coming next. There was no way her mother wouldn’t bring up the earl. “Yes, I like her.”

“And her brother?”

And there it is.
“Yes, we are friends.” She saw her mother staring at her with that you-know-we-will-sit-here-all-day-unless-you-tell-me look on her face. “It’s true, Mother. We are friends. We enjoy each other’s company.” Eve tried to keep a serious expression on her face, for if she failed to convince her mother of the innocence of her relationship with the earl, she could possibly find herself sitting home tonight.

“Perhaps,” her mother said, which translated as: “I don’t believe you for a second.” Obviously, her mother wasn’t fooled and Eve assumed she was probably well aware of her rapidly growing infatuation with the earl.

“I trust you, dearest. I know you will make the right choices. And truthfully, all I want is for you to be happy. If your happiness comes with the earl, then I will accept that. All I ask is that you make sure the two of you have shared vows in front of a man of the cloth before you go past the boundaries of friendship.” Most mothers would have found making such frank statements to their daughter’s difficult, but Eve’s mother had always believed in having open communication with her children.

“I find that friendship with the earl is all that’s possible,” Eve told her sadly. “But, I can tell you that I do like Lord Bakersfield and Count Vernon. I’m fonder of Lord Bakersfield at the moment. He seems far more interesting and fun. At least we laugh together, and I find him easy to talk to. I don’t recall ever laughing with the count.”

“That’s wonderful, dearest. I’m glad to hear you won’t be pining for someone who is unavailable, but there’s no need to choose too quickly. There’s still plenty of the Season left to enjoy.”

“I know. Thank you for all of this, Mother. I know how tired you must be, since I’m exhausted, and I want you to know how much I appreciate having a Season.” Eve kissed her mother on the cheek and went off to her room for a much needed nap.

***

Eve sat in front of her dressing table as her maid arranged ivory rosettes among her upswept curls.

“You have such pretty hair, like the color of liquid fire.”

“Thank you, Tiffany, although I don’t think there is any such thing, unless you refer to lava.”

Tiffany smiled. “Well, if there was, it would look like this.” She ran a multitude of strands up in her fingers and pinned them in place.

Eve finally stood in front of her full-length cheval glass mirror clad in her ball gown. The cream silk was overlaid with shimmering copper colored organza. The neckline was round, the sleeves cropped short, and the small train trimmed with a double row of silk ivory roses. Satisfied with her appearance, she thanked Tiffany and took herself downstairs.

Mother sat with the cook going over the week’s menu. She dismissed him when Evelyn entered the room. “You look brilliant, dearest. Absolutely beautiful.”

“Thank you, Mother. Do you think I should wear the long or short ivory gloves with this ensemble?”

“Let’s see.” Mother came forward and laid a glove of each length along Eve’s arms. “I’d say the short ones. It is warm outside. You should wear a light wrap without lining.”

“Will the cream one look all right?” Eve asked, going to the hall closet.

“Yes, although you might want to wear one of my hats. I have one that is amethyst in color and swoops over to the side with feathers that curl beneath your chin and…” Mother stopped gesturing the hat’s shape with her hands when she looked up at Eve, who couldn’t seem to stop herself from adamantly shaking her head no. Her mother smiled with understanding. “All right, then. No hat. Now have fun tonight, and don’t forget my warnings to watch yourself around the earl, and men in general for that matter, but the Earl of Devonhurst especially. He can be overly charming and you need to be on your guard…” The sound of voices in the hall stopped Mother from further warnings.
Thank goodness.

“The Earl of Devonhurst is here, madam.” Hamilton made the announcement from the doorway.

“Please show him in,” Mother instructed

Gallant as always, the Earl of Devonhurst swept into the room and bowed to both women. “Viscountess Stonehaven, a pleasure to see you again so soon.”

“My lord,” Mother returned in greeting.

“I’m sorry to say that my sister seems to be overly anxious. She awaits us in the carriage. I apologize for Lydia’s discourtesy and inform you she means no disrespect. She tends to become overwrought before attending large gatherings.”

“Think nothing of it. I remember the jittery feelings all too well,” Eve’s mother stated. “It seems worse depending on a young lady’s years…”

Eve interrupted her mother’s words by giving her a kiss to her cheek. She then turned back to Paxton, happy her mother kept further reprimand about Lydia’s youth behind her teeth.

“If you are ready, Lady Evelyn, my chariot awaits.” Paxton offered Eve his bent arm.

“Of course.” Eve stepped toward him and he helped her drape her wrap around her shoulders.

“You look stunning,” he whispered in her ear as he led her outside.

Eve waved to her mother and then turned back as the earl assisted her into the carriage. “I had started to wonder if you even noticed me,” she said.

“A man would have to be blind not to, my sweet.”

“Thank you, my lord, and may I say you look admirable too.”

Paxton grinned as he stepped into the carriage after her.

“A lovely evening, don’t you think?” Lydia asked as she scooted over to allow Eve room to sit next to her. “Sorry I didn’t come inside. I’m just anxious.”

“Me too,” said Eve, but then she was jittery every time she saw Lord Devonhurst. He sat across from them in his masculine glory, smelling wonderful, looking resplendent. Her heart raced just being near him. He tapped the wall behind him with his knuckles and the carriage jolted into motion. His eyes then fixed upon her and she squirmed in her seat, trying to think of something to talk about.

“I’m glad it’s warm tonight. I hate wearing so many layers of clothing all the time.” Eve tried not to blush after she realized how vulgar her words sounded, as if she didn’t care for clothes and preferred to walk around indecent. “I’m happy you asked me to join you. I’m afraid my mother is exhausted.”

“London can be tiring,” Paxton agreed.

“That is why our mother stays away from the city,” Lydia said. “She likes to travel, though. Right now she is in Bath taking in the waters.”

Eve nodded. “Sounds very relaxing.”

“And boring,” Lydia said, scrunching up her nose in distaste. “She wanted me to join her, but I find London much more exciting.” She looked at Eve. “Do you prefer the country or the city life?”

Eve shrugged. “London is wonderfully exciting, but I enjoy a brisk horseback ride through an open field or picking wild flowers along the forest’s edge. So I guess I prefer the country.”

“You have much in common with my brother.”

Eve turned her head to give Paxton’s sister her full attention.

“You see, Paxton prefers the country as well. Don’t you, brother?” Lydia placed her hand on top of Eve’s and gave it a few pats. “I practically had to beg him to bring me to the village for the Season.”

“I agreed because, like Lady Evelyn, you are looking for the perfect suitor. It seems the two of you have much in common as well.” He laughed as if he had made a jest.

Eve noticed the heated glare Lydia gave her brother before she chose to ignore him and began pointing out sights to Evelyn along the way.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The Duke and Duchess of Arlington’s affair was the most sought after invitation of the Season. As she entered the extravagant event, Eve could understand why. In the long hallway leading to the ballroom were several niches filled with statues of Greek gods and goddesses. As one entered the ballroom one was immediately drawn to the center of the room, where, illuminated by thousands of candles, stood a mammoth reproduction of Bernini’s statue of Apollo and Daphne. Eve was well aware of the story behind the piece and found it amusing the duchess would choose such statuary as a focal point for this event.

The god Apollo was shown gasping for air as he chased the innocent Daphne. Daphne, scared of an encounter with him, calls out to her father, the river god Peneus, who rescues his daughter by turning her into a laurel tree. Such a depiction in the ballroom among the eager young men and the multitude of innocent ladies guarded by their fathers seemed almost a commentary on such events as this one. “However did your cousin manage to bring that statue in here?” Eve asked in awe of its magnificence.

“I believe Rebecca had it brought in piece by piece and reassembled. It took weeks,” Lydia informed her. “She was panicked the statue wouldn’t be finished in time. The workers put the finishing touches on it just this morning.”

“It really is beautiful.”

After enjoying a waltz, a cotillion, and a quadrille with various gentlemen, Lydia ensconced herself in the card room, as Eve knew she’d eventually do, which in turn left Eve alone with Paxton. They sat on two of the burgundy-cushioned seats in front of a tapestry-covered wall.

“Are you enjoying yourself?” Paxton asked as they watched people twirl around upon the dance floor in front of them.

“Yes. Your cousin certainly knows how to entertain. Everyone seems to be having a splendid time. There are so many people here.”

“Rebecca wouldn’t have it any other way. The more people, the bigger the success, provided the crowd consists of the ‘right’ people, of course. Besides, crowds elevate the chances of something exciting occurring.” Paxton glanced toward the double door entry. “Look who’s here.”

Eve followed his direction. “Oh good. If you’ll excuse me.” Not waiting for a response, Eve went to greet Lord Bakersfield. She had realized it made no sense for her to waste her time pining for Lord Devonhurst when nothing could ever come of it. Her feelings just didn’t factor into the equation.

Brandon looked wonderful, dressed in a dove-gray coat and trousers with his black overcoat. Eve was so relieved to see him for, in spite of her recent realization, she found it hard to ignore her feelings for Paxton when they were always together. She desperately needed a moment away from him. Plus, she liked Brandon and wanted to spend more time with him. The problem was that, no matter how hard she tried, she still didn’t like him the way she liked Paxton.

Brandon smiled at her. “I told you I would be here. I do regret to inform you that, unfortunately, I can’t stay long. I have to meet with my father about some government matters. Since we’ve no time to waste, how about engaging me with a dance so I can be the most envied man at this gala?”

Eve was saddened by the fact that Brandon couldn’t stay long, but his father was a member of the House of Lords and she knew that Brandon was involved in politics as well. “I would enjoy a dance, my lord, for it will allow me a chance to make all the women envious as well.”

Brandon laughed as he twirled her around and into his arms. Not being able to help herself, Eve looked to where she left Paxton and found him standing scowling at her. She noticed Cole approach him, and then she turned her attention back to her partner.

After a second song ended, Eve said farewell to Brandon and went in search of Paxton. She didn’t have to look long for it was easy to find him and Cole. They were surrounded by a group of eager debutantes.

“Back so soon?” Paxton quirked up his brow. “I thought the two of you would dance the rest of the evening. You are aware, Lady Evelyn, that dancing two songs in a row is strictly taboo,” he informed her gruffly.

Eve was stunned by the public reprimand. She smiled at the group of ladies and then turned to give Paxton her full attention. Truthfully, she didn’t know what else to do. How dare he criticize her behavior in front of all these people? Loud enough for all of them to hear, she responded, “You must excuse me, my lord, for I am not as old and stuffy as you. I see nothing wrong with dancing in the arms of a charming gentleman who came here specifically to see me. And although it is none of your concern, the marquis was only staying briefly. Lord Bakersfield happens to be a man of some import, and he has other matters he must attend to this evening. However, the next time I find myself in such a predicament, I will tell my father, or of course, I will inform you.”

Cole immediately burst out laughing at Eve’s scalding reply. Then he quickly ushered the shocked maidens away before Paxton could explode in rebuttal, which he appeared to be more than ready to do.

Eve looked up at Paxton, who glared down at her with such intensity she wanted to back up a few steps, but she didn’t. Irritated with him but also with her impertinent response to his rudeness, she turned and stomped away before he could speak. As she drifted off into the crowd, she was suddenly seized by the arm.

“Lady Evelyn, what luck! I was looking for you.” Count Vernon smiled in greeting as he let go of her arm. “It’s impossible to find anyone in this madness.”

“Sometimes people don’t wish to be found.”

“I’m sorry. Are you referring to yourself? Have I done something to upset you?”

Eve was immediately contrite. It certainly wasn’t Henri’s fault that Paxton made her so mad that she turned into a shrew. “No, no. I’m sorry. It is wonderful to see you. I’m glad you’re here.”

Henri didn’t look like a man who was willing to decipher a female’s moods. “Perhaps we could go into a different room, out of the crowd,” he suggested.

Quitting the ballroom was exactly what Eve had in mind. “Shall we go to the card room?”

Henri seemed pleased by her decision. “Splendid.” He gave her his arm and led the way. “Was that the Marquis of Bakersfield I saw you dancing with earlier?”

“Yes,” Eve answered as they entered the wood paneled card room.

“I noticed he took an early leave from tonight’s festivities,” Henri noted. Like Paxton and Brandon, the count seemed overly concerned with her other suitors.

“He had some meeting with some government officials,” Eve answered automatically as she looked about the room.

“Did he perchance say where he was heading for this meeting?”

“No, he didn’t,” Eve said without interest.

***

Paxton was following behind Eve when he saw the count approach her. He was glad, for he was too angry with her to talk civilly.

Cole came up behind him. “What was that all about?”

“It’s about a lady who doesn’t know what’s good for her.”

“And I suppose you know what’s good for her?”

“You damn right I do!” Paxton spat.

“All right, relax. Come on.” Cole patted him on the shoulder. “Let’s find you a drink.”

“Make it many drinks and you have a deal.” Paxton headed toward the refreshment table set up along the far wall by the terrace. After a few quick refills, he asked, “Have you learned anything more regarding Count Vernon?” When Cole didn’t answer, Paxton downed another drink. “What is it?”

“This is not really the place to discuss such matters, but seeing that it is so loud in here, I will tell you. Now, I don’t want you to become angry, but we are no longer keeping a watch on the count. There are not enough trained men to keep up surveillance on someone who hasn’t done anything questionable in over three months of observation.”

“Surely you jest. He’s French, isn’t he? You’d think that alone would be reason enough, added to the fact that he is a known spy. He definitely looks like a villain to me.”

“Yes, well, although I agree, you must admit you are biased toward him. After all, he could end up married to your lady.”

Paxton huffed, “She is not my lady.”

“Whatever you say.”

“I’ll watch him.” Paxton decided he could do nothing less for he would not see Eve hurt by the Frog.

“No, that’s not a good idea.”

“If he is dangerous, I can’t allow him to continue his courtship with Evelyn.” Paxton was appalled his friend would expect him to do so.

“She’s a grown woman, Paxton. I’m sure she can handle herself. Hell, she handles you with no problem. Besides, the man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Paxton didn’t miss the skepticism in his friend’s voice. “Promise me you’ll leave it alone?”

Paxton said nothing, but then, knowing Cole, he hadn’t expected him to.

***

Eve was tired of standing amongst the men while Henri droned on and on about politics. The other men in their circle often cast her apologetic looks for not talking of something more appropriate in her presence. It seemed like war was all Henri wanted to discuss this evening, and so she made her way to the table where Lydia was playing whist.

Lydia noticed her arrival and smiled as she approached. “Having fun?”

“Yes,” Eve lied, not wanting to disappoint her new friend. But with Paxton angry, Brandon gone, and Henri spouting nonsense, she really wanted to go home. “Are you winning?” she whispered so as not to bother the other players.

An elderly woman removed herself from the table, and Lydia motioned for Eve to take the woman’s place.

“No thank you.”

Lydia shrugged. “Do you play?”

“No. I don’t like gambling. My biggest problem is that I hate to lose.”

“Everyone hates to lose, Eve. But I have this theory. If you always double up, eventually you’ll have to win,” Lydia explained while digging in her reticule for what Eve assumed were the last of her coins.

“It sounds risky to me.” Eve watched Lydia add more money to the growing pile in the middle of the round table.

The handsomely dangerous looking man across from them replied, “You have to love a lady who is willing to take risks.”

“Exactly!” Lydia smiled flirtatiously at the man who stared at her as if he were undressing her with his eyes. Evelyn fought the urge to remove Lydia from the man’s intense gaze.

“He’s a little scary,” Eve whispered in her ear.

“Yes,” Lydia whispered back. “I think I’m in love.”

Eve looked over at the man again. He had long dark hair with piercing bright blue eyes, a strong jaw line, and a hawk-like nose. He was, she had to admit, strikingly handsome in a menacing sort of way. With his dark clothing and large frame, he overshadowed the other two men seated next to him. After several hands and more losses, Eve whispered to Lydia again, “Does he ever talk or smile?”

“He is a man of few words, but he speaks most eloquently when prompted. As for a smile, he seems to only do that when he wins my money.”

“Does he ever quit staring?” Eve questioned.

“Only when he’s looking at his cards. I guess some would consider his gaze a bit unnerving, but I love it. It sends chills up and down my spine.” Lydia smiled at the formidable man as she raked in her only winning coins so far this evening. Now she was back in the game and Eve was quite sure that was not a good thing.

Eve watched a few more hands and then excused herself in search of fresh air. “I’d keep my eye on him if I were you,” Eve warned before she left.

“Don’t worry. I will.” Lydia turned to stop Eve from leaving. “Do me a favor. Please don’t tell my brother about this. I can handle the man across from me, and I can handle my card play.” She looked at Eve awaiting a response. “Promise?”

Seeing no harm, Eve agreed. “I promise.”