Page 14 of A Symphony for the Earl

“But I think Madame Brigitte will do in your case,” he said, looking amused.

She pushed aside her plate. Immediately it disappeared, whisked away by the same liveried footman.

“About that, Lord Seldon—”

“I hope you won’t cross me on the matter of your wardrobe. It is a bit early for an argument. You will need the proper attire to appear to advantage. While the quality of your clothing seems suitable, it’s several seasons behind the current fashion.”

“I hope there is a compliment hidden somewhere in that observation.” She had reached the same conclusion just minutes ago, but he had no right to mention it. “The question is not if I need to expand my wardrobe, but whether you will pay the bill to do it.”

“I thought I made myself clear on that subject.”

Before she could respond, Valentina entered with a sweep of skirts and the scent of honeysuckle.

“Good morning. Fiona, how lovely you look. That is a very flattering shade of blue.” She settled in the chair opposite, shook open her napkin, and placed it across her lap. Valentina wore a lovely high-waisted gown in yellow, and delicate gold earbobs. “I do hope you slept soundly. How exhausted you must have been.”

“I was quite tired, yes,” Fiona answered automatically, eyeing Lord Seldon, who had finished the last bite of toast and returned to his paper. He evidently considered their conversation closed.

“Good morning, Richard. Was that your carriage I heard early this morning? We missed you at dinner last night.”

“After my business with Falworth, I decided to stay at the club.”

The ever-vigilant footman poured Valentina’s tea and removed the earl’s plate.

“Oh…was your headache worse?” Valentina took a slice of toast from the plate nearby, adding some jam.

“It abated. I thought of taking the four chestnuts out today. Perhaps an excursion in the landau around Hyde Park?”

“Oh, wonderful!” She clapped her hands in delight. “Fiona, Richard has the most perfect set of matched chestnut geldings, all with white stockings. We set the town on its ear when he takes them out. Besides, it is always such a pleasure to watch Richard drive. They say he has the best hands in London.”

“An exaggeration,” the earl murmured. “My horses are excellent. Most come from County Wicklow, Miss Rafferty. I suppose you have a history with horses?”

Typical for the English to expect everyone from Ireland to be in love with horses. She preferred to bet on one, rather than ride sidesaddle. “I don’t. As a child, I rode in the West Indies and became proficient, but I am a city girl at heart.”

He raised an eyebrow at her shortness. “I thought a drive in the park would be an excellent opportunity for you to make your initial appearance of the Season. Then, at Lady Sefton’s gathering tonight, we will offer a more formal introduction.”

“If I can find a suitable dress,” Fiona muttered, somewhat ungraciously. The earl ignored her.

“What plans have you today, Valentina?” he asked.

“Last night at dinner, Mama mentioned taking Fiona shopping this morning.”

“Excellent. Shall we plan on three o’clock for our drive, then? You will inform Mother.” The earl rose from the table. “I am sparring at Jackson’s with Denys Spencer this morning, so I will leave you both to your entertainment.”

“You must give my best to Denys. I hope he will attend tonight,” Valentina said wistfully.

“Lord Seldon, there are matters we must discuss.” Fiona stood up. “My clothing bill, for one, and any options I might have besides living here as your ward.”

He stared down his nose at her in the most arrogant way. “Neither subject is open for discussion, Miss Rafferty. You will dress in the most current fashion and there is no alternative to your living arrangements. I am your legal guardian, and I expect you to comply gracefully and not fight me in these matters. It is my responsibility to arrange for a suitable husband and to see that you are comfortably settled. Unless you’d rather live as some reclusive spinster companion to my youngest sister. That is also an option.”

She disliked that raised eyebrow intensely. “My lord—”

“I am relieved that you aren’t going to argue with me, Miss Rafferty. That would make for an uncomfortable situation indeed.”

And with that, he was gone. Fiona stared after him, highly irritated, but also with some appreciation. She would need to sharpen her skills if she was going to cross swords with her guardian.

“Why are you so upset that Richard is responsible for your needs?” Valentina asked. “He is very generous to all of us, and there is plenty to spare. My brother has managed things wonderfully and brought the estate back from the edge of ruin. I hope you’ll stay, Fiona. I’ve always longed for a sister my age. We shall spend our first Season together and become great friends.”

It was hard to remain peevish in the face of her goodwill. “I would love to be your friend, and I will try to be happy here.”