Page 49 of Managing the Major

She could be mistaken, she supposed, but one thing was certain: Her mother would react in horror upon learning of such a scene, and likely disavow all contact with the Fairfax family. Even though Octavia wasn’t willing to face Alastair tonight, there might be some plausible explanation. Possibly. She wasn’t prepared to cut him entirely out of her life, nor to give up her ambitions regarding Nerissa and Abigail Croyden. Still, it rankled to take criticism for his infamous behavior.

“The Croydens are coming this way, Octavia, and you should not be here when they arrive.”

With a sinking heart, she escaped to find Richard, wondering how such a promising evening had turned out so badly.

Chapter Twenty

Major Fairfax’s Past Causes Complications

“I refuse to go to the ball tonight,” Octavia declared. “I really don’t care if I see that odious man again or not. The very least he could do was apologize.”

“Didn’t you refuse to speak to him?” Genevieve asked as they partook of chocolate and pastries the next morning. Octavia had messaged her to call early, and Genevieve agreed on the condition that they meet in her morning room for breakfast, and she wouldn’t have to dress.

Lord Hope had greeted Octavia in the entrance hall on his way to the door, stooping to pet Freya, who strained at her leash to reach him.

“Miss Octavia.” He looked up with a wry smile. “I must know the secret for rousing Genevieve before ten o’clock. Very ingenious of you to accomplish what I haven’t managed in two years of marriage.”

“Nothing less than calling with a Cheltenham tragedy in hand will work, Lord Evan.”

He chuckled. “It’s not serious, I hope?”

“The disaster centers on a certain man who shall go unnamed,” she replied darkly.

“Ah, Major Fairfax. In that case, I wish you the best in turning things around. Good day, Miss Octavia. And don’t forget to give me first pick of the litter when you breed that little beauty.” Freya whined as he tipped his hat and went out.

“I know, sweetheart.” She picked up the dog, nuzzling the soft fur of her neck. “It seems like we women have nothing better to do than produce a family.”

In Genevieve’s sun-filled morning room, Octavia quizzed her about sharing the details of her involvement with Alastair with her husband. Genevieve merely shrugged and took another hot cross bun, looking far from repentant.

“I tell Evan everything about my friends, but take great care to say little of my own doings. He is very discreet. It keeps things lively; no doubt you will do the same after you marry.”

“Marry, Genevieve? How can you say that, especially now?”

“I just cannot believe Major Fairfax would carry on an affair right under your nose, Octavia. My instincts about people are very good, and he’s not the type to do that. And besides, why would he dally with Mrs. Crawford when you are about to walk into the room at any moment?”

“Well, he may not have initiated the encounter, but he certainly is involved with her. There is something amiss.”

“Then talk with him; find out his relationship with Mrs. Crawford. Men are famous for blundering into things by mistake. They also avoid difficult subjects and awkward conversations.”

“There is far too much advice about men thrown about lately,” Octavia complained. She rose and took a turn about the room, restless and undecided about what to do. “Fiona said as much, and I thought my brother above such vagaries.”

Freya jumped onto the sofa with a soft whine and rolled onto her back, kicking her back legs as Genevieve scratched her stomach.

“You can’t avoid him forever. I, for one, am dying of curiosity.”

Octavia sighed. “Secretly, I’m afraid of what he’ll say. To be honest, I’m halfway in love with Alastair and I don’t want to be crushed by his explanation.”

She picked up a Sèvres spaniel from the Hepplewhite desk in the corner, tracing the smooth china contours. “We might have started off badly, but we actually suit each other very well; he steadies my rebellious character. And my encouragement helps embolden his cautious nature. I fear the decision not to marry might have been hasty. It is different when you meet the right person.”

“Only you can answer that, Octavia. But I like our major. He has impressed me with his fortitude throughout much hardship and in his regard for you. He seems to care deeply.”

Octavia set the statue down resolutely. “I must have the truth, no matter what I decide to do with it. But when? We won’t have an opportunity to speak privately at Almack’s.”

“Won’t he come ride his horse soon?”

“Of course! He plans to be at Merrick House tomorrow. But I’ll let him know tonight that I’m willing to discuss it. Or perhaps I should send a note?”

“Most certainly a note. Then you can enjoy the ball without fretting. Now, I am going to dress and visit Mme. Duchon about a new hat. Evan and I had a wonderful homecoming, and I am reaping the benefits. Would you care to come?”