Page 24 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

Eliza followed the direction discreetly.

“And it appears he has already seen you,” Pere added. “He is coming this way.”

Good. Eliza lifted her chin slightly. She tilted her head and let her fingers brush lightly along the neckline of her gown—subtle, deliberate. An invitation.

A moment later—“Lady Eliza.”

She turned slowly, allowing a soft smile to form before fully facing him. “Lord Langshire. What a welcome sight.”

He took her hand and bowed over it, his gaze lifting to meet hers, appearing warm, attentive, approving.

Relief—not attraction—slipped through her. She still held his interest, that was what mattered.

“Have you only just arrived?” she asked as he released her hand.

“I arrived nearly half an hour ago,” he replied with a faint smile. “I regret to say I am habitually punctual—a rather unfortunate trait. Difficult to correct.”

She laughed softly. “On the contrary, my lord, punctuality speaks of respect. I find it a most admirable quality.”

“I am very glad to hear you approve, Lady Eliza.”

He glanced toward the dance floor. “The dancing has not yet begun in earnest—at least, not the dancing I hope to claim you for. Would you care to take a turn about the room? With your cousin’s approval, of course.”

He cast a polite glance toward Gabriel.

“By all means,” Gabriel said.

Lord Langshire offered his arm. Eliza accepted it with a small, demure smile, falling into step beside him, her skirts whispering softly with each movement.

“How fares your estate, my lord?” she asked, opening carefully. “I hope all has been well since last we spoke.”

“How kind of you to remember,” he said. “All is well—no further damage beyond what was expected.” He inclined his head. “And I thank you again for your understanding regarding my delayed arrival that day.”

“It was of no consequence,” she said smoothly. “Such circumstances cannot be helped. I was only grateful you came at all—it was a highlight of my day.”

“And mine as well,” he returned. He hesitated only briefly before continuing, “You mentioned missing the countryside … would you allow me to persuade you to take a turn about Hyde Park with me tomorrow? The weather appears promising—though one never quite trusts English skies.”

“I would be delighted,” she said. “It is always a pleasure to be out of doors. And even should the weather fail us…” She allowed a small, knowing smile. “I am certain I could still be persuaded to make time for you.”

His expression warmed. “That is very encouraging to hear, Lady Eliza.”

She lowered her gaze briefly, considering that now another meeting was secured, she needed to deepen the impression. It wasn’t enough that she was merely agreeable. She had to be memorable, rather, unforgettable.

She glanced toward him. “Do you enjoy music, my lord?” It was the perfect avenue—accomplished, feminine, safe.

His gaze warmed. “Yes, and I am particularly fond of the pianoforte. My mother played often—it lends the instrument a certain nostalgia for me.”

It was a perfect association. “I would be happy to play for you. I have been practicing the pianoforte quite diligently during my stay with my cousin.”

“I should very much enjoy hearing you play,” he said, his attention darting ahead, then back to her. “As I said, the pianoforte is especially dear to me because of my mother, so I’ll certainly take you up on such an offer.”

“That is a treasured association,” Eliza said softly. “Did she favor any particular composer? I would be glad to learn something meaningful to you.”

“She admired Bach greatly. Mozart as well, though she often declared his compositions somewhat … excessive.” A wry smile touched his lips.

Eliza laughed lightly. “I confess I am inclined to agree. Some of Mozart’s pieces have nearly tied my fingers into knots. Though it is a triumph when one manages them.”

He laughed—low, genuine. “My mother would have said the same. Which is precisely why she preferred Bach.”