Page 32 of Courting the Country Miss

As Isabella left on Griffith’s arm, Aunt Alice preened. “Already a dozen suitors.”

The newcomer looked alarmed. “A dozen?”

“Oh, at least,” Leticia added, wickedly.

“Hmm.” He moved off toward the refreshment table, but Leticia suspected he had Isabella on his mind more than the glasses of lemonade or the trays of food.

Aunt Alice rubbed her hands together in delight. “If that girl doesn’t receive a handful of offers by summer, I’ll eat my prized fish.”

Leticia effected a mock shocked expression. “I hope not, Aunt. Those decorative fish in your pond aren’t good eating.”

Chuckling, Aunt Alice put an arm around her. “I’m expecting a few for you, as well.”

“Oh, no, Aunt. I’m here to help Isabella make a splash.”

Aunt Alice’s eyes twinkled. “We shall see.”

“Yes, we shall,” Tristan added, the expression in his eyes growing more wicked.

A third gentleman approached and nodded at Tristan. “Barrett.”

“Ah, good evening. Miss Wentworth, may I introduce Major Hawkins? Major, please allow me to introduce you to my good friend, Miss Wentworth.”

The major bowed. “Delighted to meet you, Miss Wentworth. Your performance was well done.” He spoke with supreme politeness, as if he were either very stuffy, or very nervous.

Leticia couldn’t resist tweaking them both. “Thank you. I’m told I’ve progressed from sounding as if I am killing a cat.”

Tristan choked and then laughed. The other man looked confused.

Leticia smiled at the very formal man. “Forgive us; that’s an inside joke, I’m afraid.”

“Of course.” As they exchanged pleasantries, his face remained solemn as if he feared smiling might crack his face.

After he bowed and took his leave, Leticia turned to Tristan. “You forgot a sense of humor is on my list.”

Tristan snapped his fingers. “Oh, that’s right. I’ll do better next time.” The mischievous grin told another story.

Isabella returned, and after greeting a steady stream of visitors, they donned their wraps and waited for the carriage.

“I met some delightful people tonight,” Isabella murmured.

“Indeed, you did.” Aunt Alice gloated.

Isabella sighed. “You know, Tristan is awfully handsome. I declare, you and he make a striking couple. What a dash the two of you would cut.”

Leticia barely suppressed a snort. “I view Tristan as a brother, nothing more.”

“I think you’re mad to overlook him.”

“I’d be mad to consider an avowed bachelor and shameless rake as anything else. Besides, I haven’t forgiven him for all those years he pulled my pigtails.”

Isabella let out a sound at odds with her usual ladylike perfection. “You keep telling yourself that, Tish, and maybe you’ll believe it.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Oh nothing. The carriage is here.”

Glee glittered in Aunt Alice eyes. “I must write your mother. She’ll be so pleased.”