“I’m certain it’s too soon to say. He lives in America now, you know.” She couldn’t meet her mother’s gaze for fear of revealing that she wanted it to be true with every fiber of her being.
Chapter Four
A half hour later, Thomas strode into Brooks’s and glanced about to see if any familiar faces were in the busy club.
“Sinclair.” A hand clapped his shoulder, and Thomas turned to see Joseph Harris, Viscount Garland, at his side. “I didn’t realize you had returned.”
Thomas shook his friend’s hand. “I came home for the holidays. I spent so many of them away during my time in the military that I decided to return for this one.”
“I’m pleased to hear it.” Garland gestured toward a table in a quiet corner. “Allow me to buy you a drink and you can tell me about your adventures in America.”
They settled at a table and soon had a whiskey in hand.
“Is New York City very different from London?” Garland asked.
Thomas chuckled. “Yes and no. The lack of clean air is certainly similar, and it is a bustling place much like London. But everything is quite new there.”
“And unfamiliar, eh?” Garland added with a raised brow.
Realizing that something in his tone must’ve revealed his feelings about the city, he nodded. “But I appreciate the opportunity my uncle has provided in the banking business. I have learned much already. I just wish it was a little closer to home.”
“Understandable.” Garland nodded. “Perhaps an opportunity will arise in London before you expect it.”
“One can hope.” Thomas wasn’t counting on it. Not until he had more experience. He found himself telling Garland about Peter and his unsuccessful quest to find the boy’s family.
“How terrible for the lad to end up alone so far away.” Garland frowned. “It seems as if you’re trying everything. If there’s anything I can do to help, I will.”
“Thank you,” Thomas said, appreciating his offer. “What of you? How is everything here? Dare I ask how Lady Harriet is?”
Garlin grinned. “I am pleased to say that I am officially courting her.” His smile faltered. “She has not had an easy time of it the last few years. I have promised to take things slowly, but if I had my way, we would already be betrothed. My affections are firmly engaged.”
Thomas smiled, pleased for his friend. “That is tremendous news. I am happy for you.”
“Harriet and the other members of her literary league are planning a charity ball. I would be remiss if I didn’t make sure you received an invitation.”
Thomas laughed. “I have just come from Melbourne House and have my ticket.”
“That was quick work.”
“I came upon Miss Melbourne in a bookshop, and she mentioned it.”
“Do tell.” Garland leaned forward, keeping his tone low. “Do you intend to pursue her?”
“How do you mean?” Thomas shifted in his seat, uncomfortable with the notion that his friend had already guessed at his feelings for the lady.
During the house party, Frances seemed taken with Viscount Garland, although that had ended abruptly when it became clear Garland liked Lady Harriet.
The moments Thomas had shared with Frances lingered in his mind and gave him hope.
“I realize there was an unfortunate misunderstanding at the end of the house party,” he said. “But I thought I sensed something between the two of you.”
Thomas sighed. “She has certainly caught my interest. But given her family’s wealth, I don’t see how my suit would be accepted.” Visiting her home to get the ticket had been a reminder of just how wealthy the family was. Though not ostentatious, everything was well tended and of fine quality.
“You might be surprised. From what little I know, Mr. Melbourne is determined to see his only daughter happy.”
Thomas stared into the distance as he considered that information. “You might be right, but he would also want to know that she would be well provided for. Unfortunately, I cannot yet promise that.”
Garland held Thomas’s gaze. “Do not wait overlong to share your intentions, whatever they may be. From what Harriet has told me, Miss Melbourne’s parents are anxious to see her wed before another Season passes.”
