Chapter Eighteen
Letitia looked around the dining table and realized how happy she was to be home again. The lights of Ridlington had appeared through her carriage window very late the night before, and she’d taken advantage of her own suite by sleeping away a great deal more of the day than she was used to.
Edmund noticed her grin. “Yes, we’re rather provincial after London, aren’t we? I assume that realization is making you smirk like that.”
She chuckled as all eyes turned to her. “Oh yes, dreadfully poor form” she fanned herself. “If it ever got out that I love diningen famille,I cannot begin to imagine how Society would gossip.”
“I can,” answered Tabby, turning her lips down into a droop. “They’d be horrified, whisper about you behind their fans and eventually ostracize you, until the next scandal, upon which they’d trot back up to you and ask if you didn’t agree that it was justawful…”
Laughter rippled around the room, charming Letitia. Simon and Tabby had joined them as part of the welcome-home contingent, and it was good to see them there. They were happy and the affection between them was obvious.
Two Ridlingtons had found that kind of joy. But both were men.
She shunned that train of thought, and turned to Harriet. “It’s quite true, isn’t it?”
“It is indeed,” chuckled Harriet. “I, for one, would much rather be here.”
Letitia had been surprised to find her at the dining table, but apparently the habit had begun when Rosaline had suggested Hugh join them and he had stayed for the meal, with Harriet.
One thing led to another, and now Harriet was part of the extended family, which position was more in keeping with her status.
“No problems with the staff, Harry?” Letitia wanted to make sure that this subtle change in her maid’s status wasn’t upsetting the household, so she slipped the question in during the general conversation.
“Not really. A few comments early on, but once I let it slip I wasn’t being paid, they forgave me. And I try to help out where I can. I think the general opinion is that Lady Rosaline might be looking to make me her housekeeper.”
“I’m glad.” Letitia finished her pudding. “But at some point you’ll have to return to your rightful position, you know. Much as I adore your company, this situation cannot remain permanent.”
“I understand that, Letitia. Believe me.” Harriet sighed. “But until I turn twenty-five, I’m somewhat helpless. I have no money to afford a good lawyer, someone who can find out what’s happening to the Selkirk estate, so for now…well, I suppose I’m treading water in a rather warm and lovely pond.”
“We’ll do our best to keep you wet,” giggled Letitia.
After dinner, they all adjourned to the small parlour, relishing the fire and tea. The gentlemen sneaked a snifter of brandy, but Tabby, Rosaline, Letitia and Harriet opted for their customary cups.
Harriet took Letitia’s over to her and set it down on a side table. “I believe I managed to obtain the items on your list, Letitia.” She sat down next to her. “But the last two items haven’t been delivered yet.”
Letitia flashed her a glance. “I see.”
Harriet delicately sipped her tea. “I was a little surprised to see them there,” she said quietly.
“Were you?”
“Well, yes. Although I haven’t been here too long, I do know some of your wardrobe preferences. Silk hasn’t been one of them. At least not in the garments you asked for.”
“True,” agreed Letitia.
“So…” encouraged Harriet.
“Not here. When we’re done.”’
Harriet clenched her jaw. “Of course.” Her teeth rang against the tea cup as she tried to take another sip.
“Please don’t bite a chunk out of that. We’re down half a dozen in that set already.” Rosaline grinned at Harriet.
“I am so clumsy. I miscalculated,” apologized Harriet.
Rosaline waved it aside and sat next to the two women. “So, Letitia. Tell me about London. Who did you meet? Who did you see?” She leaned closer. “Were there any juicy scandals while you were there?”
“Rosaline,” blinked Letitia in surprise. “I’mshocked.”
