A little swell of pride filled her. How nice to receive a sincere compliment on something other than her attire or her hair. She did her best to ignore the effect it had on her heart. “As I mentioned before, I have learned so much from books. I am already enjoying the discussions we have in the literary league about the issues presented in the books we read.”
“Lady Bolton is quite enthusiastic about the group.”
“She has every right to be. Not only do we read a variety of literature, we visited a workhouse and are in the throes of planning a major effort to aid those wanting to learn new skills and earn a living.”
Eliza couldn’t help a smile when she said “we.” It was wonderful to be part of such a group when she’d always felt as if she were on the outside looking in. Already, she enjoyed a camaraderie with the members, something she’d never had at finishing school.
“Truly?” Philip studied her with surprise. “You enjoy charitable activities?”
“I’ve only just started but most definitely. I can’t wait to see what we’re able to do.” She leaned closer. “I shouldn’t speak of it yet when we’re still in the early planning stages, but there is talk of a Christmas ball to benefit the endeavor.”
“That is an ambitious undertaking.” The growing respect in Philip’s eyes as he nodded made her pleased she’d mentioned it.
“Alone, an endeavor like this would be difficult, but together, I do believe we could move a mountain.” She smiled at the thought, certain it was true.
“I’m sure you could. I look forward to hearing how your plans are progressing.”
“That is good to hear because I would like to speak with you about what I saw at the workhouse. Members of Parliament should take action to change the conditions there.” The idea of working with Philip on this issue was a heady one.
Before she could say more, Lady Constance joined them, bringing a dose of reality along with her. “Your Grace, my father wondered if you were ready to depart.”
“Certainly.” He introduced Eliza to the lady, though she wished he hadn’t.
She didn’t want to come to know her or her sisters when she feared one of them might soon become Philip’s wife.
Philip watched Eliza and Lady Constance, noting the caution in both ladies’ expressions. What were they thinking? Did Lady Constance think Eliza was competition for his attention?
His focus shifted to Eliza, wishing they could continue their conversation. He’d thoroughly enjoyed hearing her thoughts on the play. She seemed to have no problem sharing her opinion on any matter, something he found refreshing. Obviously, the visit to the workhouse had greatly affected her, and he looked forward to hearing more.
While Lady Constance acted more confidently around him than her younger sister, Lady Alice, she rarely said anything that helped him to better know her.
He’d reluctantly accepted the invitation Lord Oxley had extended to attend the theater. Only after the lord had said others would be going as well and that the evening would conclude with a late supper at Lord and Lady Vaughn’s home had he agreed.
This was as intimate of a gathering as he was willing to partake in until he decided who he would marry. He felt as if he were being slowly pulled into Oxley’s family whether he wanted it or not.
Eliza smiled and that made him even more reluctant to part with her. She was a lure he couldn’t resist. A light in an otherwise foggy world.
A few more minutes in her company would make the remainder of the evening bearable.
He turned to Lady Constance and managed a polite smile. “I will join you at Lord Vaughn’s home directly.”
“Very well.” The lady nodded then sent one more pointed look at Eliza before turning away.
Philip glanced around to make certain no one was watching and whispered, “Meet me at the end of the hall.”
Eliza stared at him in surprise. “What?”
“Just for a moment.” He looked at the location he meant, and Eliza followed his gaze.
“Now?”
“As soon as you can manage without anyone noticing.” Philip nearly grimaced at his words. They sounded like something that a man with poor intentions might say. She’d be wise to refuse.
“Philip,” she began, her hesitation obvious.
He clamped his lips tight to keep from begging. Still, he couldn’t keep from raising his brows in anticipation, praying for a positive response.
Another moment ticked by before she nodded. “Very well.”
