“I’m sure it does.” Sebastian’s knowing smile was infuriating.
Before James could respond, the front door opened down the hall. A flurry of voices followed—Cecily’s bright with excitement, Georgiana’s lower and more measured, the swish of packages and the clink of hatboxes.
Their footsteps approached and then Georgiana entered first, cheeks pink from the cold, arms laden with parcels. She paused mid-step when she saw Sebastian. “Oh! I didn’t realize we had company.”
James stood, far too quickly. “We do.”
She wore a deep violet pelisse trimmed in black, the fur collar brushing against the soft skin of her neck. Her hair was slightly windblown, her lips still parted in surprise. His stomach fluttered. After last night’s restraint, seeing her again felt like a physical blow.
Cecily stepped in behind her, carrying an enormous hatbox, beaming with delight. “The modiste said I have excellent shoulders,” she announced to the room, before realizing a stranger was present. She covered her mouth, flushing. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize we had company.”
James introduced the women to his brother.
Georgiana offered a graceful curtsy. “I’ve heard so much about you, Lord Ashford.”
“And I you, Mrs. Fairfax.” He turned to Cecily. “And you as well, Miss Linley.”
Cecily curtsied, smiling widely. “Your brother has saved us. We are so grateful.”
“From what I hear, you and your sister do very well taking care of yourselves,” Sebastian said. “But thank you.”
“I am sorry Lady Ashford couldn’t join you,” Georgiana said.
“She sends her regrets and this.” Sebastian gestured to the wrapped package. “She’s eager to meet you when she’s able, but for now she’s keeping to her chambers.”
Understanding flickered in Georgiana’s eyes, and she nodded with a gentle smile. “Please give her my regards.”
James watched the exchange, noting how naturally Georgiana handled the delicate situation, how Sebastian’s eyes lit up with immediate approval. His brother was studying them both with barely concealed amusement.
“We’re grateful to you for giving Ashford Manor life again,” Sebastian said. “I cannot express adequately how much it means to our family.”
“It has been my pleasure,” Georgiana said. “In fact, the project has been a great gift in more ways than one. Your family home is extraordinary.”
“We should let you visit,” Cecily said, still clutching her hatbox. “We have much to prepare for tonight’s ball. I am nervous as a cat facing a den of wolves.”
“You will do splendidly,” Sebastian said. “I look forward to seeing you both there.”
After the sisters had excused themselves and their footsteps faded up the stairs, Sebastian turned to James with obvious amusement.
“Well, this explains why you were so eager to sponsor a Season.”
“It’s not—” James began.
“Of course it’s not,” Sebastian said mildly, though his expression suggested he believed otherwise entirely. “And I’m sure calling her ‘Georgie’ is perfectly innocent as well.”
James ran a hand through his hair, heat creeping up his neck. “You are a terrible brother.”
“And you are clearly smitten,” Sebastian replied cheerfully. “Rose is going to be absolutely delighted when I tell her.”
James looked away, knowing any protest would only make things worse.
He was well and truly doomed—and his brother was enjoying every minute of it.
Chapter Nineteen
Georgiana
Georgiana’s breath caughtas she looked around the ballroom, taking in the vaulted ceiling painted with cherubs and trailing vines in soft pastels. Marble columns wrapped in gold leaf rose from the edges of the room, their capitals carved with delicate acanthus leaves that seemed to flutter in the flickering light. Between them, tall windows draped in midnight blue velvet were pulled back to reveal moonlit gardens beyond, the glass reflecting the warm amber glow within.
