“—Pushed me back on the settee and kissed me without permission the moment a chaperone stepped from the room.” Her voice rose. “I never wish to see you again, Lord E.
“You don’t understand,” he begged. “I must marry an heiress and a title. My family is destitute.”
“Then I suggest you find a lady who appreciates you and then court her properly.” Again, Lucinda pointed to the door. “Leave.”
“I admit, I overstepped, but I believe you are overreacting.”
To which she gasped.
“Perhaps it would be best if I spoke with His Grace, for a reasonable discussion, void of feminine emotion.”
If she were a man, Lucinda would call him out. “I will not ask you again. Leave or I will have you removed.”
Her other guests began to emerge from separate areas of the manor, much to Lucinda’s embarrassment, but she held her ground.
He straightened. “I took liberties that I should not.” Lord E’s voice was loud enough for all to hear. “Therefore, I must speak with His Grace.”
Maybe if they thought her ruined, they’d all leave. Not that she wished her reputation soiled, but it would bring an end to this house party.
“You’ve nothing to discuss with my father,” Lucinda bit out.
“You are a lady, thus, no decision is yours.”
“The lady asked you to leave.”
Lucinda glanced to the entry to find Mr. Copeland, his face hard and hands fisted.
“This is none of your concern, Copeland. It is between me and His Grace.”
“His Grace has made it clear that all decisions are Lady Lucinda’s and she has asked you to leave.”
“I’m certain he would change his mind if he knew what occurred between usprivately.”
“Nothing!” Lucinda gasped. “I resent you implying more occurred than it did.”
“A lady’s denials are rarely believed.” Lord E had the audacity to smile. “All that is necessary is what is believed by Society.”
Before Lucinda could react to the threat, Mr. Copeland stormed forward and planted Lord E a facer that knocked him unconscious.
“Please place him in the carriage and direct his driver to deliver him home.” She turned to her guests. “You are free to believe what you will, but if you choose Lord E’s claim over mine, I prefer you leave.”
* * *
As soon asAunt Joanna had found Caleb, beside herself with worry, and explained what had occurred when she’d stepped from the room for a moment, he hurried to the manor, only to find Lord E refusing to leave and then adding further insult. The rest of her lords stood around gaping, and perhaps judging, but not one stepped in to assist or defend Lady Lucinda, so he did what was needed and then had the trash removed.
“Yes, well good riddance to him.” Lord A sniffed.
“It’s a shame what some gentlemen will stoop to,” added Lord B.
“Well, now that we are gathered, shall we begin the picnic,” Lord H offered brightly.
Lady Lucinda gaped at them.
“Gentlemen,” Lord I stepped forward. “I don’t believe Lady Lucinda wishes to be near any of us, let alone on a picnic. Nor do I blame her.” He frowned.
“You are correct, Lord I.” She offered him a kind smile. “If you will all excuse me.” She then lifted her skirts and disappeared above stairs.
“Bloody Hell! If Lord E has ruined this for me, I’ll see him pay,” Lord C complained as he marched off.
