Page 84 of A Well-Trained Lady

I pulled in a shaky breath, distinguishing the threat in her tone and the distress it caused. And suddenly I became aware that I would do anything to be free of Mother and her vicious control of my life. “I will, Mother,” I said with new conviction. “I will convince Lord Thorton.”

She tossed my arms from her grip and faced the mirror, smoothing her hands over the emerald silk of her gown and readjusting her matching necklace. “Now go.” She flicked her wrist toward the door. “Dinner will be announced in twenty minutes and you have much to accomplish.”

Without a word of protest, I glided from the room, rubbing at the tender spots on my arms as I made my way downstairs. I will soon be free of Mother was my rallying cry as I glanced around the drawing room. Lord Thorton’s awaiting gaze met mine. There was no more delaying. I would demonstrate that my affections were his and his alone. It didn’t matter that my heart constricted at my resolve, for the sooner I could achieve his offer, the better. I moved toward Lord Thorton with determination.

“Miss Godwin.” He stepped away from the group of gentlemen he’d been speaking to and bowed, sending me the smile that had once made my whole being alight with pride. “You look absolutely ravishing this evening.”

I dropped into a brief curtsy, locking my eyes with him as I lifted. “Thank you, my lord. I could easily say the same of you.”

He gave a hearty laugh, and I felt several gazes shift to us. “I believe I should like to hear it from your lips. Please go on.”

My cheeks warmed at his affront, but I stepped closer, revealing to him that I appreciated his encouragement. Or, at least, appeared to. “Perhaps we could find a moment later … when there are not so many listening ears about to overhear my praise?”

A mischievous smirk touched his lips. “I have been longing to steal a private moment with you, so that sounds delightful.” He glanced behind me. “And speaking of delightful, the last of our party arrived a little over an hour ago.”

I tilted my head, attempting to recall which of the guests were missing. I could think of no one. “Remind me who it is we were waiting on.”

He flicked his head, and I followed his line of sight just over my shoulder. My heart thudded to a halt. “Augustus?”

Augustus’s severe expression appraised me momentarily before he offered a stiff bow. “Miss Godwin.”

No matter how much I willed it, I could not pull my gaze from his look of betrayal.

Lord Thorton took a step closer to me, leaning in until I could feel his breath on my ear. “I hope you don’t mind my being so bold, but I thought to surprise you by the gesture.” I blinked several times, as though I might be imagining the whole thing. But Augustus did not disappear.

I glanced back toward Lord Thorton, expecting to find malice or spite in his expression. Yet I found nothing but curiosity. “How unexpected, my lord.” My voice came out hoarse, and I cleared my throat.

“Miss Seton is here also.”

“Ruth is here?” I glanced around in a panic, hoping none of the ladies had gotten to her first. She would be eaten alive in this pack of venomous creatures.

“She is taking dinner in her room.” Lord Thorton placed a light hand on my back, directing me toward where Augustus stood. “Is that not correct, Mr. Brundage?”

Augustus gave a brisk nod. “Yes, she did not believe she could be readied in time to join us, but she will be down to socialize after dinner.”

I swallowed, sensing both men watching me. “I am most eager to see her. I have hardly felt myself since our hasty goodbye.”

Lord Thorton gave a satisfied smile. “I’m glad you are pleased, Miss Godwin.” He glanced toward the entrance where his mother stood glaring at him. “If you will both excuse me one moment. I believe I am needed.”

My lips parted, longing to protest being left alone with Augustus, but Lord Thorton walked away before I could offer an excuse. I glanced around at the familiar faces, none of which seemed to be taking particular interest in Augustus and me. “What are you doing?” I hissed.

His jaw slackened. “As though I am the one that owes you an explanation?”

“You wish for an explanation?” I lifted my chin, willing it not to quiver. “I made a mistake in accepting your offer. It could never work between us. It is better for us both if we find a more suitable situation.” The words were half-truths, but I would not give more.

“I can see you’ve wasted no time.”

I took a calming breath, not wishing to draw unnecessary attention. “You knew of my intentions, so don’t make me out to be some kind of conniving temptress that lured you along without your consent.”

His ire reflected back at me. “Pardon me if I’m making you out to be something you aren’t.”

Tears pricked my eyes. “Think what you like. It cannot matter.”

“Let me tell you what I think, and you can decide if it matters or not.” The force of his gaze bore into me. “You are scared, Bella.”

I glanced toward Lord Thorton to make certain his notice was still elsewhere. “And what is it I am scared of?”

“Besides your mother? You fear marrying beneath the expectations placed upon you. You fear a lowering in your social standing.” He lifted a knowing brow. “But more than all of that, I’d say you’re most terrified of being loved.”