As usual, James was the one to bring them back to reality. “There is nothing we can do to change the past,” he stated, though his voice was a little softer than usual. “But we canfix the present. And presently, Elaine, you need to grasp every opportunity you can to get married.”
Elaine nodded, determination coursing through her veins. She had to get married. It was the only way to save her family. She was their only hope. Even if her brother were to return and claim responsibility for the earldom, he would be managing a husk of a legacy. But she had the chance to make things right.
It no longer mattered that she had once dreamed of marrying for love; that cherished dream was now painfully beyond her grasp.
“I am ready,” she said firmly.
“Marvelous,” Lorna chirped. “Lord and Lady Jones’ ball is upon the morrow—”
“Upon the morrow?” Elaine gasped.
“Oh, don’t worry, darling. I have arranged for everything already. I have a number of dresses for you to be fitted in for the ball, but we shall have to make time to visit the modiste shortly.”
Elaine glanced worriedly at James. “Is not the morrow a trifle too soon?”
“It is never too soon,” Lorna answered her with a dismissive wave of her hand. “The quicker you are out in Society, the quicker you will be noticed by potential suitors. We do not want them turning their attention to other ladies before you show, now do we?”
“I suppose not…” Yet it did little to quell the sudden burst of anxiousness trembling within her. She had not expected to have to do it tomorrow.
“There is nothing to worry about, Elaine,” Lorna gently reassured her, clearly sensing her apprehension. “You are a beautiful girl with a lovely, demure disposition—”
“Demure?” James echoed incredulously.
“Yes, demure. At least, that is what the gentlemen will think when they meet her. Men love demureness.”
“Is it not best for me to be my true self?” Elaine asked.
“Yes, of course. But in a demure manner, of course. Worry not, darling, I shall be right there to guide you.”
“And I shall spread the word that you are seeking a husband,” James spoke up.
As Elaine baulked— for even she recognised how outrageous that was—Lorna sighed. “You shall do no such thing. You would frighten them all away. We do not want anyone to presume she is desperate.”
James frowned. “But sheisdesperate.”
“But they need not be aware of it!” Lorna exclaimed. She caught herself and drew in a slow breath. “James, my dear, you should simply focus on securing her a respectable dowry and utilising your connections to ensure we remain invited to any forthcoming events.”
James seemed bemused by Lorna’s impatience, which only amused Elaine. While Lorna tended to poke James’ buttons for fun, James seemed to be utterly clueless when he did the same to his mother.
But he conceded with a nod. “Very well.”
“Lovely.” Lorna turned her attention back to Elaine, smiling. “Now, is there anything you would like to inquire of us?”
Elaine frowned in contemplation before shaking her head. “I have no questions. Whatever you instruct me to do, I shall do without hesitation. I am merely grateful for all your assistance.”
“You are family, darling,” Lorna murmured. “How could I face Margaret in my sleep if I allowed her family to fall to ruin?”
Elaine managed a smile at that, somehow. “Truthfully, I wished I was attending the Season under better circumstances. I longed to be free to choose a gentleman with whom I have fallen in love, rather than merely the first suitable match who might aid in saving my family.”
Lorna reached out to grasp Elaine’s hand. “Perhaps you will be fortunate enough to receive both.”
Elaine knew better than to believe she could be so lucky. The past few years had proven that she was not the most favourable person in London. But she hoped that what little luck she did possess would be revealed in the form of a kind husband who could save her from ruin.
Chapter Two
The Earl and Countess of Belington stood facing the front door in their opulent foyer the moment Michael entered. He took one look at their bright smiles and knew that he was in for it.
“Michael!”
