“Please come and take a seat. The tea tray will be delivered momentarily.”
“This is a lovely room,” Lady Wright said, looking around. “May I ask who your designer is? I feel our townhouse needs a bit of renovation as well, and this room is quite delightful.”
“Um…that would be me. I didn’t hire a designer,” Audrey said.
“Well, my dear, you have excellent taste,” Lady Gardner chimed in.
“Thank you, my lady. That’s very kind of you to say.”
“Mama,” Lady Victoria said.
Lady Wright turned to her daughter. “What is it, dear?”
“Lady Arabella and Miss Parker are going to Vauxhall Gardens on Saturday. Might we attend as well?”
“Oh, please say yes,” Mia said before Lady Victoria’s mother had a chance to answer. “It would be so much fun if we could all see the fireworks together.”
Lady Wright turned back to Audrey. “Is this so? Has an outing been planned?”
Audrey nodded, and Lady Gardner added, “Oh, do come, we haven’t enjoyed a night out together in quite some time.”
“Shouldn’t we check with whoever is hosting the group?” Lady Wright asked. “I wouldn’t want to intrude.”
“Lord Easton has planned the whole thing. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind two more joining our party,” Audrey said. “Lord and Lady Devon are also attending.”
“Well, I guess we could join you,” Lady Wright said. “If it’s no bother.”
“No bother at all, Lady Wright,” Audrey said. “Two supper boxes have already been reserved, so there’s plenty of room for everyone.”
“Thank you, Mama,” Lady Victoria said.
The three young women on the sofa could barely contain their excitement. None of them had ever been to Vauxhall Gardens, and they were all keen to enjoy the sights and see the fireworks.
Chapter15
Easton braced himself before joininghis mother in the drawing room, giving his reflection in the hallway mirror a quick check to verify his expression was cheerful. This whole excursion to Vauxhall had gotten away from him and grown much larger than he’d intended—he’d groaned inwardly when she told him that Lady Wright and Lady Victoria would be joining the party. He only hoped he’d still be able to find some time alone with Miss Parker.”
“It will be a delightful night for everyone,” Lady Devon said.
“Of course, Mother. I’m glad the Gardners and Lady Wright can attend. I know you don’t get to see them as much as you’d like. Good thing I’ve already reserved two supper boxes. There’s room enough for everyone.”
“You’re such a good son. I must say, I’m very much looking forward to it. Thank you for planning this,” Lady Devon said.
“It’s my pleasure.”
“So, have you thought any more about Miss Parker?”
“What do you mean?”
“I mean, Vauxhall Gardens are beautiful, and a stroll along the paths with all the lanterns displaying a myriad of colors can be very romantic. If you want the young lady to know you’re interested in her, you need to give her a hint.”
“Mother, that’s what I was trying to do when I suggested the outing, but now the other two young ladies will most likely take up most of her time.”
“Easton, you mustn’t let that defeat you. If you want Miss Parker, you must pursue her more openly. The poor young woman isn’t a mind reader. She may not have any idea you care for her.”
“I’ll think about it.”
“Of course, dear. Forgive me for intruding on your privacy.”