Evelina’s brow furrowed as she glanced at the suitor her sister pointed out. She hesitated, considering her words before she replied. “Indeed, Lord Wentworth is charming, but I believe his affections lie elsewhere.”
“Elsewhere? And where might that be?” Margaret looked up at her with curious eyes.
“Let’s just say that he frequents too many bars, dear sister. I would never settle with a man like that.”
“Hm, indeed.” Margaret nodded in agreement, before she ran her eyes over the garden again. “Ah, but what about the dashing Captain Sinclair? Near the rose bushes? His gaze seems to linger even—perhaps I could add him to my card?”
“The captain seems to be a gallant gentleman, but I fear our acquaintance is but a fleeting one,” Evelina responded, with a gentle smile. “He is rarely in the country, often away on business. Not a lot is known about him.”
The Countess’s garden party was above and beyond the definition of elegance. The sprawling gardens were dotted with vibrant blooms in hues of crimson, gold, and ivory, their fragrant scents mingling in the warm summer air.
Canopies of gossamer fabric fluttered gently in the breeze, casting dappled sunlight on the meticulously trimmed hedges and marble statues that graced the manicured lawns. The bubbling of a nearby fountain, accompanied by a string quartet, provided a soothing backdrop to the chatter of the guests.
Tables covered with crisp white linens were laden with delectable treats—silver platters and tiered trays showcased an assortment of dainty pastries andpetits fours, each a work of art. The scent wafted through the air, followed by the rich aroma of freshly brewed tea and the effervescent fizz of champagne being poured into crystal flutes.
The ladies were dressed in an array of pastel-colored gowns adorned with delicate lace and floral patterns, embodying refined elegance. The gentlemen sported tailored coats, crisp cravats, and polished boots.
Evelina and Margaret conversed about potential suitors as they strolled through the garden, stopping occasionally to socialize.
The Countess’s gatherings and balls were known to all as the best places to find wealthy, connected suitors. Somehow, Lady Claymont managed to always have all the important men in Society attend.
As they strolled further into the garden, Margaret’s eyes lit up suddenly, and she tugged on her sister’s hand, leaning in to whisper mischievously, “Oh, but dear sister, have you heard of the handsome Lord Harrington? The one standing by the gazebo?”
Evelina groaned and sighed. “Margaret, we are not here to?—”
“I heard from my dear friend, Lady Amelia, that he’s quite taken with Lady Adessa. But you see, the matter is, he tried?—”
“Margaret, you must compose yourself,” Evelina reprimanded, withdrawing her hand. “Perhaps we can use your great knowledge about the ton for yourownbenefit?”
“Oh, but Sister, you did not let me finish.” Margaret pouted.
Evelina rolled her eyes with a smile, and her mind wandered elsewhere as her younger sister steered the conversation to the previous topic.
“Indeed, I heard it was quite the sight! I never knew the man was so agile beneath that stoic façade. The way he was ready to risk it all for Lady Adessa…”
Evelina’s head snapped up as Margaret trailed off suddenly, her gaze fixed on someone in the crowd, disbelief evident on her face.
“Sister, is everything all right?”
Evelina followed her sister’s gaze, and a slight gasp escaped her lips as she recognized the man Margaret was staring at.
Their father, dressed in his best attire, was looking around the crowd, obviously searching for them.
“What is he doing here?” Margaret whisper-hissed, her voice laced with anxiety.
The question hung in the air, and Evelina felt her heart race at the implications of his presence.
At last, their father spotted them and began to make his way towards them.
A wave of discomfort washed over Evelina. It had been ages since their father had joined them for any social gathering. This sudden appearance stirred multiple clashing emotions within her.
Her heart sank as she glimpsed the conflicting emotions on Margaret’s face as well, and she balled her fists gently. She would not let the man ruin this day.
As he drew nearer, Margaret leaned in and asked, “Is it all right for him to be here? Do you think he will… behave?”
Evelina, grappling with her own uncertainty, forced a light laugh and a smile for her sister’s sake. “I’m sure everything will be okay.”
When their father finally stopped before them, he nodded nonchalantly and greeted them with a simple word. “Girls.”