“It’s a wonderful evening, Verity.” A quietly dressed woman came to stand at her side. “I believe the donations are going to substantially enrich the Yardley House roof fund.”
“Yes, I think you’re right,” she answered, somewhat absently, her gaze roaming the crowd, dancing, chatting, helping themselves to the buffet which had appeared at some point during the evening. She had no idea when, though, since her attention had wandered a little from where it was supposed to be.
“You need to rest for a few moments.” Mrs Tabitha Monroe touched her shoulder. “Verity. Come and sit down. You’re tired, and I’m not surprised, given everything you’ve put into this evening. If you want it to conclude properly, you should take a few moments off your feet and gather your thoughts.”
“You’re right, as always. What would I do without your counsel, dear friend?” Verity allowed herself to be led to a chair in a quieter spot, where she sank down, leaned back, andbreathed for what felt like the first time in the last couple of hours.
“You’re not unwell?”
“Good lord, no,” Verity chuckled. “But you’re right, this has been a very busy few weeks. Perhaps I haven’t rested as much as I should.”
Tabitha nodded. “Well, now you can ease back for a while, and recuperate. The next month or so is clear, isn’t it?”
“As of this moment, yes. And truthfully, Lady Howe is a whiz at organising the upcoming spring flower show, so I don’t have to put much effort into that.”
“Well, here’s a revolutionary idea. Take a holiday.”
Verity blinked. “A what?”
“A holiday. It’s a period of time when you do things youwantto do, not the things youhaveto do. Sometimes you can actually enjoy yourself.”
“Really?” Verity raised her eyebrows. “What a novel concept.”
Tabitha laughed. “You know what I mean.”
“I do, and you’re probably right. But what on earth would I do with myself, Tabby? Wander around Turningstone and...and...dustthings?” She leaned back. “I’d be bored to tears within a week.”
“Well, you could always be nicer tohim...” Tabitha tilted her head toward a gentleman bearing down on them.
“Oh good grief. Must I?”
“Yes.” Tabitha touched her shoulder. “Practice now.” She turned away and smiled. “Sir Martin. How smart you look this evening.”
“You are too kind, Mrs Monroe,” he replied. “And I see you’ve wisely insisted Lady Verity take a few moments to herself.” He turned to her, took her hand, and bowed over it. “A magnificentevening, my dear. Magnificent. Not only in donations, but in presentation.”
Verity smiled. “You are too kind, Sir Martin. But I will accept your thanks on behalf of our organization.” She rose, and tried to be polite. “I must thank you for attending. I know you’re not a gentleman who cares much for such things...”
“When you are present, dear lady, one needs no further incentive.”
“Ah. A lovely compliment indeed.”
“I would shower you in compliments, dear Lady Verity, should you allow it. Flowers, sunshine, so many wonderful things would be rained upon you, in words if not in deeds.”
I will not roll my eyes. I will not roll my eyes.
“Sir Martin, forgive my interruption, but I believe your sister is trying to attract your attention?” Tabitha spoke politely into the gentleman’s ear.
He turned, frowning. “Drat the woman. Can’t manage for five minutes without me.” He pasted a smile back on his face. “You must excuse me, dear Lady Verity. I assure you I shall return forthwith.” He bowed himself off.
Tabitha turned away, trying to hide her giggles.
“My dearest friend. My very dearest-in-the-whole-world friend. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” Verity sighed and relaxed.
“He’s very devoted, isn’t he? But so...fulsome in his language.”
“He’s an idiot, Tabby. We both know it. And all he really wants is the prestige of the Turner-Yardley name, along with its money.”
“Can’t blame him, dear. He’s not alone, either.” Tabitha pulled a chair closer to her friend. “You’re a most desirable catch. You’re attractive—actually quite beautiful when you put your mind to it—young enough to bear children, possessedof a well-respected name, and...as you mentioned...a nice fat fortune.”
