Page 17
“Not far, just a couple of hours’ drive. The Duke of Torrington’s home is almost directly centered between my home and this one. If you recall, it is about an hour’s ride to theirs.”
“I would love to see it,” her sister exclaimed with a smile. “Will you invite us, Mr. Yarnsby?”
The lack of propriety would have shocked most, but Penelope had always been too outspoken and daring. Much to their parents’ exasperation. Vivian studied Mr. Yarnsby, waiting for a reply. He looked to her in turn, as if expecting she’d chastise Penelope. Instead, Vivian attempted a bored expression.
“Er... Of course. Perhaps tomorrow afternoon?”
“Delightful.” Penelope clapped her hands. “As much as I enjoy the reprieve from London, I do miss having adventures.”
“It seems you and your sisters quite enjoy these adventures. I am curious to see what you have planned during your time here.” He started to turn but hesitated with a pensive expression. “I do believe I met Lady Greene once.”
They both stared with mouths open at his retreating form.
“He overheard us,” Penelope hissed. “Do you think he will inform William?”
Her mouth still open, Vivian stared wide-eyed to where Penelope had hidden the book. “You always get me into these situations. Honestly, Penelope, you must get rid of it.”
“I can’t very well destroy it or burn it. It belongs to Mother.”
Covering her face, Vivian peered at the fire through her fingers. “How am I to face him at supper tonight? I was reading the most shocking words.”
“Crumpets,” Penelope exclaimed.
Vivian gaped at her sister. “What now?”
“I forgot to look to see if he was aroused.”
“Penelope!” Vivian exclaimed. “Do not say another word.”
* * *
Too soon, they were dressed and waiting to board the carriage that would take them to the Torringtons’ estate. The only other time Vivian had been there was for Clara and William’s thrown-together wedding.
Vivian had come to William’s country estate to spy on him and had ended up injured and unable to leave. Needless to say, their parents had insisted they marry out of fear of the episode reaching gossips’ ears in London.
“I am excited to see the house again. It is so grand,” Penelope exclaimed, not seeming at all bothered by what had happened earlier.
Vivian looked around. Thankfully, Alexander was nowhere to be seen. He must have ridden ahead.
Escorted by her sister’s handsome husband, she and Penelope boarded the carriage and rode the short distance to the Torrington home. To call the grand estate a house would be a great understatement. It boasted beautiful architecture, large columns, and a line of perfectly pruned trees across the front sides.
The house reminded Vivian of other grand homes in London where the most elite people lived.
Once inside, they were immediately greeted by an exuberant Clara, who didn’t wait for them to remove their cloaks, pulling them into a grand front room that boasted a huge fireplace and equally imposing windows. There were several gathering areas, and the one they hurried to was next to the fireplace.
“Isn’t this grand?” Clara exclaimed, pointing to a greenery arrangement on a side table. “I did it.”
Vivian was wordless. Her sister had never tried to do such a thing at home. Her arrangements had always been horrible and either Vivian or their mother had to fix them. This one, however, was passable. It was only a bit lopsided.
“You did this?” Penelope asked with a bright smile. “I am so proud.”
“Me as well,” Clara said, then looked past them. “I overheard the duke telling Duchess Torrington that they are inviting another family to dinner.”
“Who?” both Vivian and Penelope asked at the same time.
“A family by the name of Foster. They have a son who they hope takes a liking to one of you.”
Before they could utter another word, Duchess Torrington entered. “You haven’t removed your cloaks.” She looked at Clara. “I assume you were excited to show them your beautiful arrangement.”
