“She is the daughter of a lecturer I had when I was at theuniversity.”
“Oh, anacademic…”
That was only slightly elevated above a dustman in her eyes, Robert knew—slightly amused—and dashing Amelia’s hopes of a good marriageprospect.
“Well, that certainly is not going to happen,” she announcedcategorically.
“Oh, and why isthat?”
“Because you are the Earl of Donnelly, and it is social suicide if you attempt such anendeavor.”
“But I have already explained to you my proposed arrangement which will shield me from yourconcerns.”
“And how do you know she can be trusted—this woman of romanticfiction?”
“Because it is in her interest. She will greatly increase her income from the sales of mybooks.”
“And if you fail? What will keep her from announcing to the world that you are the true author of this massive failure and nother?”
“Because she is an honorablegentlewoman.”
“And you are certain of this? You know her that well, doyou?”
“Wellenough.”
“Robert, you are afool.”
“Perhaps. But must I remind you once again that I am the head of this household and the Earl of Donnelly, and you are my dearest sister living here under my protection and at my pleasure. If, however, that arrangement does not satisfy you, then you are free to make other arrangements—at your ownexpense.”
That completely silenced Amelia. She clasped her fingers together and pretended to study the books on a particular shelf. And still studying the books announced, “I am planning a small dinner party Friday next week. I am inviting the Viscount Berwick, the Simpson-Wright sisters and the Lord and Lady Booth. I know how much the Simpson-Wrights amuse you, so I am counting on yourattendance.”
“Sounds pleasant enough—except for Berwick. Bit of a bore, if you ask me. And he’s been pressing me about some scheme of his which I have no interest in. Must hecome?”
Amelia turned to Robert with her most winning smile. “Oh, my dear Robert, but he is such a charming gentleman at a dinner party. He can be so witty and entertaining. I am certain the other guests will be delighted to have him at thetable.”
Robert was not going to fight her about this, as he knew the two of them often spent time together. “Very well, he mayattend.”
Amelia came forward and put her hand on Robert’s arm and said, “And oh, I forgot… there is one otherguest.”
“Yes?”
“Lady Hortense Wilton will also be attending. She just happens to be traveling from London through Cambridge on her way to Kingston upon Hull to visit her dear aunt anduncle.”
Robert suspected that Lady Hortense was another of Amelia’s eligible ladies of marriageable age, but he was too caught up in his pending publication to take on another fight with hissister.
“Lady Hortense… Another of yourprotégés?”
“A most charming twenty-six. An absolute delight at whist, and an excellent horsewoman. I believe she is to arrive late morning the day of the dinner and it might be pleasant if the two of you went ridingtogether.”
Robert gave her a withering look. “I believe that is mostunlikely.”
“Wait until you see her, then you can decide. She is truly lovely and it would be good for you to take a break from your constant responsibilities, don’t you think?” She ran her hand along Robert’s arm. “And you work so hard. You must take care ofyourself.”
Robert took hold of Amelia’s shoulders with both his hands and said, “My darling sister, do you ever think about ourparents?”
Amelia seemed surprised by his question. “Occasionally.”
“I remember their exuberant passions. They shared so much and had such extensive appetites and passions for exploring life. Of course, it was tragic that they met their ends so early, but they died following their mutual love ofadventure.”
