Beckwith was standing in the doorway of the townhouse, waiting for them. “I hope your evening was pleasurable,” the butler said.
“It was indeed,” Fletcher said, handing over his hat and cane.
Audrey and Mia passed over their shawls, and the trio headed up the stairs.
“Thank you again, Fletcher, for accepting the invitation to the Gardner ball. It was a spectacular night,” Mia said as they walked down the hall to their respective bedchambers.
“You’re most welcome. Sleep well,” Fletcher said, opening their door and ushering Audrey inside.
“Good night.”
Mia practically skipped the rest of the way to her room. She was floating on air, and she’d had more fun tonight than she could ever recall having before. This was what she wanted. To have fun, to laugh, to dance, and to spend time with her friends. She had no idea what future engagements they might attend, but she was looking forward to the outing to Vauxhall Gardens with Lord Easton.
The Monday after theGardner Ball, Lord Berkeley paid them a visit. Mia and Audrey were sitting in the drawing room, and it was shortly after morning calls had ended when Beckwith announced the earl.
“Lady Fletcher, Miss Parker,” Lord Berkeley said with a bow. “I do hope I’ve not inconvenienced you.”
“Not at all, Lord Berkeley. It’s always delightful to see you,” Audrey said with a curtsey.
“Good day, Lord Berkeley,” Mia said with her own curtsey.
“Lady Fletcher, I do apologize for not sending a note around. By the time I remembered, I was already halfway here.”
“Lord Berkeley, nothing to apologize for. You’re always welcome.”
“Have you come to tell us another amusing childhood story?” Mia asked.
“Not today. I’m afraid I’ve come asking for a favor.”
“Oh? What may we do for you?” Audrey asked.
“My lady, I desperately need some more suggestions for the renovations of Berkeley House. I have no idea what’s needed besides bringing some life back into the house. You’ve done such a marvelous job here and at Dandridge Manor; would you take pity on a poor bachelor and help him out?”
Audrey chuckled. “Of course. I’d be happy to. I must say it was quite enjoyable watching the transformation of Fletcher House from its drab and dreary appearance when we first moved in.”
“It’s quite beautiful,” Berkeley said, looking around the room. “I’d like something similar, especially in the drawing room. I honestly don’t believe that before the Season, anyone has set foot in that room in a decade or more.”
“I have some time this afternoon, if that’s convenient for you,” Audrey said.
“You do? Oh, Lady Fletcher, that would be most convenient. Thank you ever so much.”
“May I come along?” Mia asked.
“I don’t see why not, as long as your sister is agreeable,” Berkeley said.
Mia looked at her sister with pleading eyes.
Audrey couldn’t help but chuckle. “Of course you may come along, dearest.”
“I shall go fetch our bonnets and gloves,” Mia said, scurrying out of the room.
“I can’t thank you enough, my lady,” Berkeley said. “You have no idea how much I appreciate your help.”
“It’s my pleasure. May I ask you something?”
“Of course.”
“I know you and my sister are friends, and I dream of asking you to betray a confidence, but has she expressed any interest in marrying this Season?”