“Not north,” her mother said firmly. “But you might enjoy a wedding trip to those places you and your fatherfound so fascinating. Greece, Rome, Carthage, and such. Though they all seem to be hot, dusty, and uncomfortable.”
Ariana chuckled. “How unromantic you are, Mama.”
“I can’t see any romance in heat, flies, dirt, and dreadful roads. Let’s talk of more pleasant matters—Norris’s entertainment. We don’t have a wide acquaintance as yet, but we can hold it in a week or two.”
“Sooner,” Ariana said, realizing that Norris or she needed to be well on the way to the altar two weeks from now.
She was ready to argue her point, but her mother said, “You’re right, dear. Town will thin out as we get closer to Christmas.”
There was another problem Ariana hadn’t foreseen. Her eligibles could even now be planning their departure for rural estates.
“Next week, then,” she said. “And we’ll invite Lords Wentforth and Sellerden, and Sir Arraby.”
Her mother nodded. “Something simple. Cards—not for money, of course—and music. You can play, which always shows a lady off well.”
“Did I really perform when I was in Town before? I don’t remember.”
“Only two times, dear. You were a little shy, but you were warmly applauded.”
How selective memory was. All that had stuck in her head were the excruciating balls.
“Some readings, perhaps,” her mother continued, “and some books and prints on display in the library. I’ll leave that to you.”
“Perhaps Lady Cawle will attend. She’ll bring half of the ton in her train.”
Her mother looked up in alarm. “I do hope not. I prefer a comfortable gathering to a crush. But you’re more in favor of the lady now?”
“I admire her confidence.”
“Don’t try to emulate her yet, dear. Wait until you’re married.”
“Isn’t that rather deceptive, Mama? Shouldn’t a gentleman see the true goods before he buys?”
“What a way to put it! I’m sure any suitor will try to show you only his best parts.”
That put Kynaston out of the running. But she already knew that.
She looked through a few more invitations, but then pushed away one to a view of thepresepe, or Christmas scene, at the Italian embassy. “Have you thought that if I win this challenge, I won’t be at Boxstall for Christmas?”
“Oh dear. No, I hadn’t. Oh.”
Ariana squeezed her mother’s hand. “I’m sorry. I’ve upset you.”
“Silly of me. It’s the way of things when a lady weds. I could hope you’d not move far, but as we’ve dismissed the gentlemen of the area, I fear you will.”
“I’m not sure why more women don’t rebel.”
“Most women are pleased to leave their father’s house and become mistress of their own. I certainly was.”
“Perhaps you and Papa were too indulgent of me. You should have made me less comfortable.”
“Raising children is a very complicated business. Even though you’ll be sad to leave Boxstall, Ariana, you may well come to love your new home just as much, especially if you love your husband.”
Love, love, always love. Ariana smiled for her motherand said, “I’m sure that’s true.” She’d have to pretend that it was true, for her mother’s sake, but she’d count herself fortunate if she could even tolerate the man.
That evening they attended a literary party held by Mrs. Montecute. Lady Phyllis was there, attended by Mrs. Manners, which meant Sir Tom North hovered nearby. The older couple seemed truly attached, so Ariana went over to speak to Lady Phyllis to give them some private moments. She might also be able to learn a bit more about Miss Weathersted.
“I’m acquainted with your brother, Lady Phyllis, and with your companion.”
