Page 18 of A Match of Misfortune

“Of course you do.”

“I appreciate it.” Nash clapped his hands together, the sound reverberating through the large entry hall and bringing the conversation to an end. “So, would you like a tour of my new townhouse?”

“Very much,” Lady Bridget said.

Rothsburg’s gaze lifted to the ornamental molding above, then moved to the marble pillars. “I still can’t believe you inherited this place.” He paused. “Actually, I can. With your luck, I’m honestly surprised you haven’t inherited at least one other house before now.”

Nash chuckled at the all-too-familiar sentiment. “I suppose it was about time.”

Chapter Six

Cecily drew in a sharp breath of air as she exited the carriage with Lord Rothsburg’s assistance. The house before them was as grand as any she’d been to in London, its long private drive a testimony to the Darlingtons’ wealth. As was the stream of guests on the imposing staircase ahead of them, each waiting their turn to greet Lord and Lady Darlington.

Lady Bridget threaded her arm through Cecily’s and leaned in. “Are you nervous for your first London ball?”

“A bit,” she admitted. It didn’t matter that she had no intention of securing a match. Being around so many members of the Beau Monde at once left her feeling unsettled.

“Well, with how captivating you look, I do not doubt you will have more than your fair share of suitors calling on you tomorrow morning.”

Not if Cecily could help it.

She glanced over at Lady Bridget. The baroness was a vision in her wine-colored gown. “You also look lovely this evening. That color is perfect for your complexion.”

“That is kind of you to say. It is a new gown.” Lady Bridget smiled in a way that hinted there was more to be said. “I’ve needed to have several items of clothing commissioned as my older ones were becoming … a touch too revealing for my condition.”

Cecily’s brow furrowed slightly as she attempted to puzzle out her meaning. Then it dawned on her. “Are you with child?” she whispered.

Lady Bridget gave a small but excited nod. “We have not told many people yet as it is still early, but I wished for you to know. First, because we are to become the dearest of friends, and second, because though my tolerance for food has returned, I find myself more easily exhausted as of late. I would hate for you to think me neglectful of my duties if I must rest from time to time.”

“I should not think you are at all neglectful, Lady Bridget.” Her concern for Lady Bridget was genuine, but she could not help but recognize how the situation might benefit her as well. She had promised Papa she would complete one London Season, but he never specified what precisely that meant. A few missed societal events would certainly not null their agreement. “In fact, if you do not feel up to being here overlong this evening, we do not need to⁠—”

“No, I assure you, I am feeling quite well.”

Cecily quelled her slight disappointment.

Lady Bridget quirked a brow. “And what is this Lady Bridget nonsense? I thought we agreed we would call each other by our Christian names.”

“Yes, of course,” Cecily said, glad for her insistence. She had remembered Bridget’s request and had been grateful for the display of friendship, but a second request would certainly put her at ease to use it.

Bridget gave a satisfied smile, their small group climbing a few more steps until they reached the top landing.

“Lord Rothsburg, have you had any word from your mother?” Cecily asked.

“Yes, a letter arrived just this morning. She has made it safely to Cornwall.”

“And how is your uncle faring?”

“Unfortunately, not well. Though my aunt is determined to nurse him back to health despite the doctor’s prognosis. And as she is a very stubborn woman, she may just accomplish it.”

“I hope she does.”

Lord Rothsburg bowed his head slightly in acknowledgment. “As do I.”

The couple ahead of the Rothsburgs stepped forward, and Lord and Lady Darlington’s gazes turned to them. Lady Darlington’s expression lit up when Bridget placed a kiss on her cheek, and the woman took hold of her hand. “My dear girl, I am so pleased you are here, and you as well, Lord Rothsburg.”

“We would not have missed it for anything,” Bridget said.

“And are your parents enjoying their time on the Continent?”