Eliza shook her head. “I disagree. If we know our own mind, we should act on what we want.”
“Such ideas are too modern for my taste.” Aunt Frieda tightened her lips but said nothing more.
“I like Lady Bolton and the others. I can only guess Lady Jane insists on gossiping about the group out of envy.”
“You have to admit their idea is...unusual.”
“We are doing charitable work as well. That’s not unusual.”
“It is for a book group.” Her aunt lifted a hand only to let it fall. “I thought you were supposed to read and discuss books.”
“We are.Wedo.” She’d only attended one meeting so she shouldn’t claim to truly know the group, but that was how she felt about the ladies. As if they were already dear friends. “The broader interests of the league are one of the reasons I’m so pleased to have found them. Friends help friends in all areas of life. I can’t imagine trying to find the right charity to assist by myself.”
“I suppose you’re right.”
Yet Eliza could see Aunt Frieda still had doubts. How odd that her aunt was modern thinking enough to travel with only Eliza and servants for company but thought it improper to do something to catch a man’s attention.
Heaven forbid if her aunt found out about the favor Eliza had asked of Philip. But she knew beyond a doubt that if she waited for him to look at her in a different light, it would never happen.
The thought had her lifting her chin, pleased she’d already started to change the way he thought about her. Whether it would work remained to be seen. She had to push forward and plan her next move. She knew she could be a good duchess and make Philip happy if given the chance. And that opportunity might be the key to her own happiness, as well.
Chapter Ten
Thebestwaytogrant the favor to which he’d agreed was to discover who Eliza was trying to impress. If he approved of the gentleman, he would point the man’s attention in her direction. If he didn’t, he’d demand the oaf keep his distance and advise Eliza she needed a different target for her interest.
It should be a simple enough matter to resolve. Then he could put it behind him.
He already knew he wouldn’t approve of whoever it was. The thought of her with anyone else had him clenching his jaw. It wasn’t that he was jealous. It was just that he couldn’t think of anyone who was good enough for her.
However, he wanted to see this through and then he would keep his distance before the temptation of her became too great. Once he no longer had to think about paying attention to her at events, he wouldn’t be obliged to dance or converse with her. Then he’d stop thinking of her so often.
He ignored the doubt his plan brought forth as he strode into the Covington ballroom. His heart ached at the thought of not spending time with Eliza, but this was the right thing to do.
Members of thetonwere slowly returning to London based on the size of the crowd. The weather had been mild with less rain, making the roads passable and presenting the opportunity to travel that some had already taken.
“Your Grace.” Lord Oxley bowed.
Philip smothered a grimace and bowed in return. “Oxley.” He should’ve taken better care to note who he was walking past. “I hope the evening finds you well.”
The lord was an unwelcome reminder of the decision that loomed before him.
“It does.” Oxley’s gaze swept the gathering crowd. “Looks to be an enjoyable evening.”
“Indeed.”
Philip took a moment to study the older lord, noting how much he’d aged in the past year. Lines bracketed his eyes and mouth, and shadows marked the skin beneath his eyes. Surely, those hadn’t been there before.
Was his financial situation causing a strain? Philip hated to think so. Hopefully, his daughters would make good matches and ease his worries. But Philip feared Graham was depending on him to lead the way.
He shifted his shoulders, not liking the pressure the thought brought.
“Is the rest of your family here this evening?” Philip asked. He should look forward to having another dance with each of his daughters. Unfortunately, he didn’t.
“They are enjoying a glass of champagne, I believe.” Graham nodded in the direction of the refreshment room. “Would you like me to bring them over?”
“No need,” Philip quickly reassured him. He wanted a word with Eliza first. “I will see them soon enough, I’m sure.”
“Good of you to speak with them.” Graham held his gaze, a flare of hope in them. “Constance and Alice enjoyed their dances with you at the charity ball.”
