“She found something extraordinary for sure,” William grumbled.
Clement nodded. “I bet she uncovered some first editions.”
“Or a rare out-of-print novel,” Jeromy added.
Adelaide resisted a sigh. “Not that you’ll probably believe me, but there wasn’t anything overly special about the books I found. I don’t recall the titles, but one was an ancient-looking herbal with water-stained pages, one was an old diary that was literally falling apart at the seams, and the last one...” She tilted her head. “I don’t recall what that one was, but it might have something to do with music. However,” she continued, “since Mrs. Bainswright has already packaged my purchases for me, I won’t get to refresh my memory until I’m at my leisure, which won’t be until tomorrow, because I actually do have a pressing engagement soon, one I need to leave for after my escorts for the afternoon pay for their purchases.”
As the book agents immediately took to looking grumpy, Mrs. Bainswright made her way behind the counter, retrieved a package wrapped in brown paper, and handed it to Adelaide.
“I’ll let you know how the progress goes with the embroidery,”Mrs. Bainswright whispered. “Although you may not need as much luck as I originally thought.” She sent a subtle nod Gideon’s way, who, thankfully, didn’t see it because he was watching Jane stroll toward the front door.
“Gideon is merely a friend,” Adelaide said as she checked to make certain Harvey was well-settled in his wicker basket, completely ignoring the look of skepticism Mrs. Bainswright was now sending her way.
After securing the clasp on the wicker basket, Adelaide stepped back from the counter to allow Vernon and Leopold room to complete their transactions. Once a great deal of money was exchanged for their books, which left Mr. Bainswright rubbing his hands in glee, Adelaide gave Mrs. Bainswright a kiss on the cheek before walking with Leopold and Vernon toward the door.
Gideon met them there, taking Adelaide’s wrapped parcel from her before he held the door open for everyone, Leopold nodding his thanks as he all but stumbled out of the store, carrying a good twenty pounds of books in his hands.
“What say we save an additional ride on the El for another day?” Leopold suggested, catching Adelaide’s eye. “I know you find it faster, but I have a feeling this pile of books is only going to get heavier the longer I hold it.”
Adelaide smiled. “I would be more than agreeable to hiring a hack to return us to Fifth Avenue, but please, allow me to take a few of your packages before you hurt something.”
“The day I let a lady carry anything for me is the day I cease growing older” was all Leopold said to that before he began hobbling toward a line of hired hacks, Vernon following a few steps behind.
Adelaide returned her attention to Gideon, who was squinting at something in the distance. “What is it?”
“Jane looks to be heading into that fur shop you mentioned earlier.”
“Then what are you waiting for?” Adelaide asked, taking her parcel from him and giving him a nudge. “Go after her.”
“I should see you settled in a hansom cab first.”
“And allow her to slip out of sight? Please. I’m perfectly capable of walking a few yards on my own.”
“Are you certain?”
“Very. Now go.”
After telling her he’d meet up with her later at Camilla’s, Gideon melted into the crowd bustling down the sidewalk.
Turning, she set her sights on her self-appointed chaperones, who were waiting for her a half block away. Hurrying to join them, her pace slowed to a crawl when she realized that Leopold and Vernon were both watching her with clear speculation in their eyes.
“Is there something you’ve neglected to mention to us?” were the first words out of Leopold’s mouth when Adelaide finally stopped in front of the gentlemen.
She fought the urge to fidget. “I don’t believe so.”
Leopold’s brows drew together. “I don’t recall you ever mentioning, Miss Duveen, during any of the numerous dinners we’ve enjoyed together, that you’re well acquainted with Gideon Abbott.”
It was obvious a distraction was desperately needed, especially when she knew full well the two gentlemen were once again turning their thoughts to matchmaking, something they’d done in the past with less-than-successful results.
She summoned up a smile. “There’s really no need for the two of you to continue addressing me as Miss Duveen. As was mentioned, we’ve shared numerous dinners together and have even now enjoyed a rollicking ride on the El, which means I give you full leave to use my given name.”
Leopold presented her with a bow, pausing mid-bow when he began to wobble due to the weight of the books he was carrying. “How gracious of you, Adelaide, and you must addressme as Leopold and Mr. Clarkson as Vernon.” He managed to straighten. “But names aside, I believe we were discussing the matter of Mr. Abbot.” He nodded to Vernon. “I detected a spark.”
“As did I,” Vernon agreed. “A spark that has the potential of turning into so much more.” He inclined his head to Adelaide. “We will, of course, be delighted to assist you with nurturing that spark if you’re unsure how to proceed with such matters.”
Clearly, the conversation was delving into uncharted territory.
“There’s no need to assist with any nurturing because Gideon and I are friendly acquaintances and certainly don’t have any sparks erupting between us,” she settled on saying.
