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“I know you followed me,” she whispered harshly. “Very ill-mannered of you to do so.”

“I will admit to being curious, Miss Vivian. Especially at noting you were not escorted.”

She looked over his shoulder to where her mother studied her with curiosity. No doubt she’d seen how she’d pulled him away. Thankfully, the Barrows distracted her.

“I was escorted, y-you must have not seen her. My companion Mary goes with me everywhere.”

Beneath lowered eyelids, his green gaze studied her face as if searching for the truth. “I see.”

“Whatever you wish to imply...” Vivian stopped talking when Penelope tapped her arm. Their mother had neared.

“Vivian, that was most unlike you to pull Mr. Yarnsby across the room in such a manner. Whatever is so exciting to bring that about?”

Both Vivian and Penelope were struck silent. Unfortunately, Mr. Yarnsby was not. “Miss Vivian is hoping to cajole from me what is needed for our birdwatching expedition.”

Their mother’s eyes narrowed. “I don’t understand why Duchess Torrington concluded you are interested in birds. I must say, she is looking forward to the three of you going out. Be a dear, Mr. Yarnsby, and go with her to ensure she purchases the necessary items before leaving London.”

Vivian wanted to groan out loud. “We leave the day after tomorrow. I am sure Mr. Yarnsby is terribly busy and doesn’t have the time to—”

“I would love to take you tomorrow,” the annoying man interrupted.

“Wonderful,” her mother said, then took her arm. “Come, you must hear the news.”

Lady Barrow excitedly informed them that her son, Gideon, was to return from India shortly. It was good news, as Vivian and her sisters had known him since they were children. After a horrible incident—Gideon had caused the ruin of a young woman—he’d been sent away by his parents, hoping to save him from complete social ruin.

Nonetheless, he’d been branded a rogue, unworthy of redemption. With the five years he’d been gone, however, and the young woman in question marrying well, the whispering had waned.

Upon his return, however, the chatter would pick up again, but hopefully it would be less traumatic for Lord and Lady Barrow.

The subject of society’s standards made for a lively conversation, much to Clara’s delight. The younger people battling with the elders present brought a friendly banter that would end in more laughter than anger.

Finally, they moved to the parlor, where William and Clara presented everyone with gifts. The men were gifted with scarves, and the women with fur-lined gloves. Duke and Duchess Torrington invited everyone for a Twelfth Night celebration at their country estate, and much to their delight, everyone accepted.

Since Vivian and Penelope would already be in the country, they offered to help with preparations.

“I have a gift for you, Vivian,” Duchess Torrington said and went to a side table. She placed a box on her lap, and everyone quieted to see what it was.

Why the woman had singled her out was most puzzling. Vivian glanced to her mother, who gave her a pointed look.

“Where are my manners?” Vivian stuttered. “This is much too kind of you. Thank you.”

“Open it,” Penelope exclaimed, clasping her hands to her chest in excitement.

Inside the box, under delicate tissue, was what looked to be a sketch pad and colored pencils. On the cover of the pad was a beautiful bird with its wings extended. Despite the fact she was not in the least bit interested in birdwatching, Vivian couldn’t wait to draw in it.

“Oh my.” Vivian’s whisper was filled with awe. “It is breathtaking.”

Duchess Torrington beamed. “I am so happy you love it. I find it is best to sketch either while seeing the birds or shortly after to get the best likeness.”

Vivian couldn’t help but meet Mr. Yarnsby’s gaze. He looked on with interest, a slight lift to the corner of his lips.

Even with annoyance at the thought of spending time in the countryside with Alexander Yarnsby, Vivian enjoyed the evening tremendously. Her sister’s first event was perfect, and Clara glowed with happiness.

“It is not often I see a smile on your lips when I am around ye, Miss Humphries.” Somehow Mr. Yarnsby had neared without her knowledge.

He lowered onto the settee next to her, his crossed legs giving an air of nonchalance he seemed to have perfected.

“I am happy for my sister. This evening is a success,” Vivian replied, keeping her gaze to where Penelope played the pianoforte.