Easton went to his mother, kissing her on the cheek. “Nothing to forgive. Your counsel is always welcome.”
“What’s this? My brother showing affection?” Kathryn said with a chuckle, walking into the drawing room.
Easton straightened and smiled at his sister. He went to Kathryn and pulled her in for a hug. “I’m always affectionate,” he said.
“I know. I was merely teasing you.”
“Are the children settled?” Lady Devon asked.
“Yes, they’re tucked in their cribs for the night,” Sam chimed in, entering the room behind Kathryn.
“Happy to hear that. I can’t tell you how wonderful it’s been to have you all here,” Lady Devon said. “I’ve missed you so much.”
Kathryn went to her mother and gave her a hug. “I know, Mama. We miss you too.”
Lord Devon joined them, and soon it was time to leave for the docks. Easton had hired two wherries to take them to Vauxhall Gardens, as there were too many in their group to fit in one boat. After everyone got settled in their seats, the ride down the Thames was uneventful. The men were the first to leave the boat and then helped the ladies disembark. When they reached the entrance to Vauxhall Gardens, Easton paid the entrance fee for all of them, and they walked in.
“Look at all the lanterns. They’re so beautiful,” Miss Parker said.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” Lady Arabella said with wide eyes.
“Neither have I,” Lady Victoria chimed in.
The three young women walked arm in arm as the group made their way to the supper boxes.
Lord Ludlow was walking with Lord Gardner, talking about an investment idea. Ludlow had been advising Gardner for a number of years, and Lord Gardner had reaped the benefit of Ludlow’s counsel and insight. There weren’t many who knew about Ludlow’s success in choosing wise investment opportunities, but Easton, Devon, Chandler, and Gardner were among the lucky few to profit.
“I’ll send around some more information once I have it all together,” Lord Ludlow said.
“Thank you, Ludlow. I appreciate that,” Gardner said.
As everyone started toward the supper boxes, Chandler tapped Easton’s arm, signaling him to hang back a step.
As the group trudged on ahead, Easton asked, “Is something amiss?”
Chandler shook his head. “Not at all. I want to make sure you do not hold any affection toward Lady Victoria.”
“Lady Victoria?”
“Yes, the young lady walking just ahead. You do recall the dark-haired beauty, do you not?”
Easton chuckled. “Yes, of course. I’m merely surprised you asked about her. Why is that?”
“I want to make sure you still hope to court Miss Parker and not Lady Victoria. I’ve seen you dance with Lady Victoria, and frankly, even as your best friend, I can’t tell if you’ve switched your desires to her.”
Easton shook his head. “No, I have no plans to court Lady Victoria. Has the young lady caught your eye?”
Chandler shrugged. “Perhaps.”
“Well then, let’s catch up with everyone so you can position yourself near the lady for supper, shall we?”
“Absolutely.”
After they reached their supper boxes, Easton spoke with the waiter. “I hope you’re all pleased with the dinner selections. I’ve ordered a variety of dishes.”
“I’m sure everything you ordered will be fine,” Lady Devon said.
Easton took his seat in the box with his parents, Kathryn and Sam, Lord and Lady Gardner, and Lady Wright. Chandler and Lady Arabella joined the other box, along with Mia and Lady Victoria, and Ludlow opted to sit with them. Throughout the meal, Easton stole glances at Miss Parker, who was obviously enjoying her time with her friends. Whenever their eyes met, she gave him a shy smile, and it made him happy to see her enjoying herself. He was glad that he’d arranged the trip. Perhaps she would realize he could be fun too.