Chapter20
That evening at dinner, Kathryncould hardly eat a bite. Her mind was churning with various scenarios of how her father might react to her request. Would he demand she marry the man of his choice? Take her back to London immediately? Lock her away at their country estate?
She had no idea, and it made even Mrs. Greenleaf’s excellent meal unappetizing. All around her, everyone was in high spirits, catching up with one another. Fletcher and Easton were discussing politics with Papa. Audrey was talking to Mama about Dandridge Manor while Mia was telling everyone that she was becoming quite proficient in her riding skills.
Only Grace seemed to share her melancholy, although it was probably because Mr. Wallings had left shortly after luncheon.
“I do hope you’ll agree to entertain us with a song or two, Lady Fletcher,” her mother said.
Audrey smiled. “Of course, Lady Devon. I’d be delighted. I do believe you’ll also enjoy a song or two from Miss Mia. She’s improved greatly under the tutelage of Lady Kathryn this summer.”
“How delightful. I look forward to hearing you both perform.”
After dessert, Audrey stood and led the women to the parlor, leaving the men to drink their port. A tea tray had been set out on the table.
“Mama, may I pour you a cup of tea?” Kathryn asked.
“Yes, thank you, dear,” Lady Devon said.
Kathryn prepared her tea and handed her a cup. “Would anyone else like a cup?”
Audrey, Grace, and Mia all nodded. Kathryn set about preparing the cups and handing them out before making one for herself. The hot liquid was soothing as it slid down her throat.
She glanced at her mother, who was talking with Audrey, and Lady Devon showed no outward sign that she was either agitated or happy about their conversation this afternoon. Kathryn still didn’t know if her mother would support her wish to marry Mr. Clifford. The final decision would rest with her father.
It wasn’t long before the gentlemen joined the ladies in the parlor. Audrey sang a number of songs while playing the pianoforte, and then it was Mia’s turn to entertain the group.
After an hour in the drawing room, Lady Devon announced, “As much as I’ve enjoyed tonight’s lovely entertainment, it’s been a long day, and I shall take my leave.”
Lord Devon stood and offered his arm to his wife. “I’ll escort you, my dear. Good evening, all,” he said before they exited the room.
“I think we should all retire. Lady Devon is correct—it’s been a long day,” Audrey said, standing and leaving with Jacob.
Grace stood. “Good evening, Lord Easton, Lady Kathryn. Come along, sister” she said as the two Fletcher sisters departed, leaving Kathryn and Easton alone in the drawing room.
“Did Papa say anything to you while you were in the dining room?” Kathryn asked her brother, her nerves on edge as she sat wringing her hands.
Easton shook his head. “No. Did you talk with Mother?”
Kathryn nodded. “I did earlier, but I don’t know how she feels about the situation.”
“Come. Let’s go talk to them before they retire for the evening,” Easton said, standing and holding out his hand to her.
“My heart is all aflutter. I’m scared Papa won’t listen once he knows Mr. Clifford is a commoner,” she said.
“Let’s not think that way until we know what Father has to say.”
Kathryn nodded, and her brother led her up the stairs and down the hall.
Easton knocked on the door and waited.
“Come,” came their father’s voice.
Kathryn was glad to see them sitting in the chairs in front of the fireplace, enjoying a brandy. She hoped her mother could temper her father’s outburst, which she knew would be coming soon enough.
“Easton, Kathryn, is something amiss?” Lady Devon asked.
“I wish to speak to you both about a very important matter,” Kathryn said, stepping before them.