It was bloody exhausting to worry constantly about what was said or how one behaved.
Last evening Damon had succeeded in maintaining his patience, but today may not be as successful. It began when he arrived in the breakfast room to find it empty. Not that he hadn’t dined alone in the past, but he was then joined by Miss Perkins and learned that his nieces had already eaten so that they could attend to their lessons, and that his mother had requested a tray in her room--her attempt to give Miss Perkins and Damon time alone to further her matchmaking.
While Miss Perkins prattled on and attempted to engage him in conversation, her companion remained quiet and sat further away. Damon had been polite in his responses to her inquiries but had not been encouraging and could only hope that Miss Perkins realized that they would not be a good match and take her leave.
The day proceeded with brief moments in which he did encounter his mother and his nieces. However, for the most part, it was Miss Perkins who remained near and he finally agreed to take her on a stroll and show her the grounds. Once finished, Damon intended to absent himself for the rest of the afternoon. He’d lock the door to his bloody library and keep everyone out if he needed to and only emerge when Miss Cordelia came to call to work with Ianthe. His mother had not yet told him when she was expected but said she’d send a note.
As he exited the gardens after having toured the orchard, where Miss Perkins had delighted in the oranges, and came around the corner of the manor, he found that Miss Cordelia was already here and standing with Ianthe.
Anger spiked because he’d talked to his mother not an hour ago and she hadn’t yet sent the invitation. Either she had lied, which was likely, or Cordelia had visited without an invitation, which was very unlikely.
“Isn’t it sweet that your neighbor is being of assistance?” Miss Perkins’ tone was one an adult would use for a child visiting to be a playmate to Ianthe.
“She’s helped my niece.”
“I could have done so as well, Lord Bentford,” Miss Perkins offered. “In fact, I would enjoy coming to know your nieces better.”
He saw no need for her to do so since she would soon be gone, or so he hoped.
“A young witch should really learn from another witch. I’m surprised your mother allows someone so normal to be of assistance.”
Miss Cordelia was far from normal. She was kind and understanding, as well as beautiful.
“Ianthe likes her,” Damon finally said.
“If that is the case, then I’d like to meet her.”
Damon said nothing further but allowed Miss Perkins to lead him across the terrace and toward the patch of land where Ianthe and Miss Cordelia stood and Nephele and Clio sat and watched. It was good that they were learning too as it may keep them from being overcome with fear when their time came.
“Your nieces could also benefit from attending a school,” Miss Perkins continued. “I attended one myself and learned much. I am surprised your mother hasn’t suggested such as it would free her of the burden.”
Damon glanced down at their guest. His mother did not see her grandchildren as a burden. “My mother does not believe young witches should be sent off to learn, but instruction should be in the home.”
“Perhaps,” she agreed. “But there are more benefits from a school than learning to be a proper witch and gaining skill. There are friendships.”
He’d not considered such. His closest friends were those that he’d made at Eton.
“By being exposed to others their age, your nieces would recognize other witches in Society when they come of age to attend a Season. It was certainly a comfort to me as I knew who I could confide in freely.”
Maybe his mother hadn’t considered the other benefits of such a school, and it would be something that he would need to give further thought.
Miss Cordelia had just finished as he and Miss Perkins joined them. Ianthe glanced up at Cordelia with a bright smile.
“I’m certain that I will need you again,” Ianthe was saying. “I tried to remember everything last night but didn’t.”
“You may tonight,” Cordelia responded, though she was looking at Damon and not his niece. “The more you practice, the easier it will become.”
“I can help you if you wish,” Miss Perkins said as she drew close to Damon and practically pressed her breast against his upper arm, just as she’d done at his mother’s garden party.
Ianthe turned and the smile slipped as Miss Cordelia became stiff and proper.
“Thank you, Miss Perkins, but I’d rather continue to practice with Miss Cordelia,” Ianthe stated politely.
Did Ianthe not like Miss Perkins?
He’d need to ask her when they were alone.
Miss Perkins let go of his arm, thank goodness, then bent down to look Ianthe in the eye. “I may know a few tricks that your neighbor does not.”
