“That’s a bit disappointing.”
Selena shrugged. “He must still be rather put out, since he didn’t join my brother for breakfast today.”
“He shall get over the matter soon enough.”
Yes, but she didn’t want him to avoid her. That was inexpedient for their arrangement, was it not? He hadn’t even handed the note from the manufacturer over to her in person. He sent that red-haired footman.
While Selena found this half amusing, she also felt a bit bad for the earl. She didn’t mean to have fun at his expense. Perhaps she should send him a gift? Maybe a box of tea. Was there one that promoted health and good hair growth? He seemed to have a preoccupation with his hair.
“Oh, and happy birthday. I had a maid send your gift up to your chamber.”
“Oh?” Theodosia’s gaze lit up with interest. “Why not hand it to me personally?”
“Well, it’s not appropriate to hand it over in public.”
Theodosia’s eyes widened. “What scandalous present did you get me?”
Oh, nothing much. “A book.”
Theodosia’s smile slipped. “Not a big, journal-like book?”
“Yes, exactly so. The very one you’ve always wanted, in fact.”
Her friend pulled a face. “Forgive me if I don’t thank you for this present.”
“No thanks are needed. You having this book kindles such relief in my heart, and that is enough for me.” She sighed contentedly before changing the subject. “By the by”—she rummaged through her reticule to retrieve the note Warrick procured and handed it to Theodosia—“do you recognize this handwriting?”
Theodosia scrutinized the neat, impeccable script. “I cannot say that I do. Most women have pretty penmanship.”
“Not me.”
“I said most.” Theodosia handed the scrap of paper back. “This was written by one of the club members, I presume?”
“I believe so,” Selena said. “But it’s a dead end. Warrick was right. There’s no way to figure out whose handwriting this is without comparing it to the handwriting of every woman in polite society.”
“They might not be from polite society,” Theodosia said with a thoughtful tap on her chin.
“Now that would be shocking.”
“Would you still join them if they are not?”
Selena shrugged. “That would depend on what they are about.” Of course, she knew no person or club could give herthe meaning she sought, but it would bring her a step closer to finding her identity within this world.
“Good. Motive is everything.”
There is nothing wrong with your name or title.
She froze. Why would those words come and haunt her now? Of course, Warrick wouldn’t understand her plight. Not completely. Perhaps it was simpler for men. They had the most advantages in the world, didn’t they? They didn’t have to worry about things likemeaning. Why yearn for more if you already have it all?
So, she would find the club, ask the members why they hadn’t invited her. If she had the chance, she would join. Then she would forge an identity that would move her beyond the shadow of her brother.
Hermotives were pure.
A certain kiss came suddenly to mind.
Selena ruthlessly pushed the picture from her mind. Kissing her to shut her up. What kind of motive was that? And that mocking tone afterward. The man had a way to set her teeth on edge with his choices.
“Selena! Theodosia!” Lady Leonora sauntered over to them and exclaimed excitedly, “An only women tea party! How novel. Even the servers are all women.”
