Charlotte’s heart sank. ‘Was the lady unwilling?’
‘Entirely. Though I believe she has resigned herself to it now.’
As Mr Hamilton looked towards Lady Bainbridge, Charlotte thought she detected genuine tenderness in his gaze.
If he is in love with her, then it would complicate matters considerably, Charlotte thought
‘I even offered her parents a sum,’ Mr Hamilton continued bitterly. ‘But my uncle offered more than money. He offered a title.’
Charlotte grimaced. ‘Ah yes. The irresistible lure of nobility. I am sure her parents sleep soundly knowing their daughter is now a lady.’
That earned a genuine laugh from him. ‘I believe you and I shall get along famously, Miss Lucas.’ Then, almost abruptly, he rose to his feet. ‘If you will excuse me, I believe it is my turn.’
But instead of returning to the archery game, he crossed directly towards Lord Bainbridge.
Another lie...
Mr Hamilton was rapidly climbing her list of suspects alongside Wolverton and Boulton. There was something decidedly awry in his manner.
No sooner had he left, Mrs Hill appeared carrying another plate laden with cold meats and cheese.
‘Thank you,’ Charlotte said absently.
The old lady lowered herself beside her with considerable effort. ‘How did you find young Hamilton?’ she asked hopefully, evidently convinced Charlotte was once again on the verge of securing herself a husband.
Then, quite shamelessly, inspiration struck.
‘To confess the truth,’ Charlotte said delicately, ‘I find myself rather more drawn to Lord Wolverton.’
Miss Underhill brightened at once as she joined them. ‘Wonderful. Leave everything to us, my dear.’
Before Charlotte could properly question what precisely that meant, Miss Underhill helped Mrs Hill back to her feet. The two spinsters tottered away arm in arm towards Mrs Wilberforce, whispering furiously together.
Less than five minutes later, Lord Wolverton approached her. Charlotte nearly laughed aloud in astonishment. The spinsters had succeeded in moments where she had failed all day.
She offered him what she hoped was an encouraging smile.
He returned it. ‘Might I have the honour of escorting you to supper this evening?’
Charlotte stiffened.
Escort a governess?
Surely he had lost his senses.
‘I am flattered, my lord, but I do not believe my employers would approve.’
‘Oh, nonsense. Country house parties are far less rigid than London society. Stanley and Mrs Wilberforce are exceedingly relaxed.’ He smiled. ‘Besides, I find myself abandoned. Miss Underwood has suddenly become indisposed and suggested I invite you in her place.’
Ah, so that is how they did it.
‘I still fear it may be improper,’ she said politely.
He grinned. ‘Nonsense. I shall settle it at once. Stanley!’
Lord Stanley and Mrs Wilberforce were already approaching.
‘Any objection if I escort Miss Lucas to supper this evening? Miss Underwood is unable to join us and suggested I invite Miss Lucas instead.’
