“In truth, I do not. I am much happier here in the countryside.”
He frowned. “But your father is an earl. Is there a reason why he did not sponsor your come-out?”
“Oh, but he did. I endured three Seasons before he and my mother gave up on me.”
“Gave up on you?” Now he looked confused. “How can that be? Someone with your pleasant appearance and secure fortune ought to have been snapped up in her first Season. Yes, I am aware you are an heiress. I’m certain you received countless offers because of it.”
“I did,” she admitted as they continued to walk along the garden path. The roses were in bloom and on colorful display, as were many other flowers featured in their natural splendor. Sweet Williams provided a striking crimson border while tall hollyhocks and delphinium anchored the back rows.
Eden loved the soft pinks, vibrant blues, and sunshine yellows that abounded in Connor’s magnificent garden. She had always thought this was Mary’s pet project and had admired her for her vision. Mary had never denied it, but Eden later learned it had been Connor and his mother who designed the flowerbeds and worked with their gardeners to turn it into the magnificence now on display. Mary had not so much as trimmed a rose or planted a cutting.
Lord Aubrey cleared his throat. “I have been back from the Continent for several years now that Napoleon’s threat is vanquished. I returned in late summer of 1815, a full two years ago. When were you out?”
“My first Season was about nine years ago and my last about six years ago.”
He pursed his lips. “How can this be? You do not look above twenty.”
“Is that your roundabout way of asking my age?” Eden was not particularly shy about it. Why not be honest and put an end to his interest before things went further? “I am seven and twenty. Quite the spinster.”
“Securely ensconced on the shelf?” He grinned. “I would never have guessed it, and I doubt anyone would consider you on the shelf no matter your age. I think the country air must be good for one’s complexion. Yours is flawless.”
She laughed. “I think you are in need of spectacles if you believe that.”
“No.” He shook his head emphatically. “I see you quite clearly. I am nearing thirty, by the way. Do you usually wear spectacles?”
She nodded. “You’ve noticed me squinting. Duchess Evelyn is determined to have me walk around in a blur. I am told they make me look quite owlish.”
He smiled. “I love owls. They are such fascinating birds of prey. Do not let on to others, but I am an avid bird watcher. In fact, I was going to ask Lynton about the more popular walks around here where I might spot plovers, grebes, merlins, and—”
“Are you serious?”
“Yes,” he said with a nod. “I’ve even brought along my binoculars.”
She considered inviting him on tomorrow’s walk with Connor’s children to the cliffs, where they intended to study thenesting birds. But she had only just met him and did not think it prudent to invite him along upon so short an acquaintance.
Besides, they planned on leaving early. He looked the sort who preferred early morning rides to walking, and had probably planned to ride out tomorrow morning with Connor and other early risers.
She would extend the invitation another day, once she learned more about him. He seemed almost too good to be true. In her experience, such men werealwaystoo good to be true. Something would eventually come up to reveal his true motives.
But Eden had to admit she enjoyed their conversation. Lord Aubrey proved to be intelligent and well versed on many subjects. They spoke for quite a while before turning back to join the others. To his credit, he made certain always to remain in full view of those on the terrace.
Once they were back among the other guests, Eden assumed they would part ways. Although he had told her the family emphasis was on advancing his sister’s marriage prospects, his were also in consideration. She expected he would now mingle with the other young ladies present in order to check out all the available options. Several of them were heiresses, so she did not think he would need to waste more time with her.
But he held her back before she had the chance to excuse herself and move on. “Is the supper seating to be formally arranged, Lady Eden? Do you know whether we will be given the chance to sit wherever we like?”
“Knowing Duchess Evelyn as I do, I doubt she will leave anything to chance. I am fairly certain our seats have been selected for us.”
“Then I hope she has placed me next to you. In any event, may I escort you in to supper?”
“Yes, that would be delightful.” She cast him a friendly smile, although she was not certain she liked the idea. The viscount wasa pleasant man, but it had been so long since anyone courted her. She had grown quite comfortable in her daily routine. Yes, she had become restless lately and was giving serious thought to marrying and raising a family.
However, now that the opportunity was suddenly being thrust at her, she was not ready for it.
But, ready or not, should she not grasp the chance for happiness? Or at least explore the possibility?
Whatever the possibility, it would not ever be with Connor. Neither he nor Duchess Evelyn had remarked on the most obvious possibility of all—that she and Connor be matched.
He hadn’t said it. His mother hadn’t said it.
