Page 10 of A Symphony for the Earl

Valentina lifted a cinnamon pastry from a tiered carousel and placed it on the matching plate, passing the confection to Fiona.

Octavia helped herself to three, ignoring her mother’s look of disapproval.

Fiona finished the pastry and dusted her fingers with a linen napkin.

“So, Octavia, let me answer your question. Ireland is called the Emerald Isle because it’s green with fine pastureland as far as the eye can see. There are sheep and horses everywhere. But I’ll look for emeralds when I return if you wish. We do have these wee beasties called leprechauns that live under rainbows and guard pots of gold.”

“Really? I should very much like to find one and steal his gold!”

“Octavia,” Lady Amelia reproved.

Her irrepressible daughter grinned and bit into another cinnamon cake.

Valentina offered tea to Richard, who politely declined.

“Once I visit my solicitor in the morning, I will make the arrangements for some pin money, Miss Rafferty.”

“That would be wonderful. I will also need to set up an account with your modiste and milliner. I fear my wardrobe to be sadly lacking for a London Season. Valentina, your gown is lovely. Is this the new Empire style I’ve heard so much about?”

“Thank you. And, yes…French fashion is all the rage right now.”

“You have hit upon my sister’s favorite pastime when you speak of fashion, Miss Rafferty. But there is no need to make any financial arrangements. My account with Madame Brigitte is sufficient for your needs.”

Fiona froze. “Lord Seldon, I am perfectly capable of purchasing my clothing.”

“That is not the point, Miss Rafferty. You are now under my legal guardianship, and your living expenses are my responsibility. I shall, of course, review your financials with my solicitor and banker.”

“My lord, I have lived independently since I was fifteen, caring for myself and an elderly aunt on little more than a shoestring.”

“And I am sure you are relieved that is finished,” Lord Seldon replied, unruffled. “We will revisit our arrangement once you are twenty-one, Miss Rafferty, and free of my tyranny. It is a hardship indeed to have all your needs met, but I’m sure you will rally.”

Octavia and Valentina watched them with wide eyes. Even Lady Amelia seemed taken aback. It was obvious that people rarely opposed the earl. But that would have to change. Later she would strategize how to put her detestable guardian in his place.

She set her teacup down with a decided snap. “I think I’ll take your mother’s suggestion and seek rest if my chamber is ready. I find myself quite fatigued.”

“Of course. I will have a housemaid escort you.” The earl rose from his seat.

His mother also stood. “I have ordered the Rose Room prepared for you, Miss Rafferty. It has always been my favorite. I do hope you will be comfortable there.”

Fiona smiled warmly. It wasn’t Lady Amelia’s fault if her son was a colossal leathcheann. “If it’s anything like the rest of your splendid home, Lady Amelia, I’ll be enchanted.”

“Shall I send a tray to your chamber later, or would you prefer to join us in the dining room for supper?”

“Thank you, but please, neither is necessary. I shall likely sleep straight until breakfast. Valentina, Miss Octavia, it was a pleasure becoming acquainted. Lord Seldon.” She gave the earl the briefest of curtsies before following the waiting housemaid.

Chapter Four

Lord Seldon’s Dilemma

Lady Amelia sighed with relief. “I think that went rather well.”

“Oh, do you, Mother?” Richard inquired sardonically.

Valentina hurriedly swallowed a sip of tea, just barely stifling a giggle. Had all the women around him caught some type of rebellious fever?

“She is well-spoken and quite striking, if a bit…vivid.” Lady Amelia sat between her daughters and touched a napkin to her lips. “I don’t think we need to fear Fiona might overshadow Valentina. Miss Rafferty isn’t beautiful in the ordinary way. Richard, you are not taking one of your dislikes to her, are you?”

“I think she is smashing!” Octavia announced. “I hope Miss Rafferty stays here forever.”