Felicia Page 7

  The unexpected rebuke from her cousin caused Lady Barbara to frown, but she acknowledged the truth of the words. “You are right as usual, Milly. I will endeavor to mind my tongue in the future.” She glanced across at Lord Umber, who seemed to be deep in conversation with Lord Rowbotham, and the brittle smile faded from her face.

  Felicia refused all pleas for an encore, for she was acutely conscious of the fury emanating from Lady Barbara. She wondered if Lord Umber had anything to do with it. As she glanced over to him, she was surprised to see that he was already looking in her direction. She dropped her eyes to the floor in confusion and rose quickly from the piano stool. Suddenly aware of his presence, she wished that she had escaped to the protective side of Lady Louisa earlier. She had managed to avoid him all day, since their confrontation in the rose garden, but now, here he was, bearing down on her with a rakish grin on his handsome face.

  “You have been remarkably well taught, Miss Richards,” he said softly. “Quite obviously by a master. Indeed, you have us all in awe of your ability.”

  His compliments confused her further. Had he been his usual irritating self, she would have known how to respond.

  “Oh nonsense, Lord Umber,” she replied brusquely. “I am sure my playing is no more than adequate. Why, I am certain Lady Barbara is better equipped to give us a real concert.”

  “You two should deal famously together, then, for she is of the same mind.”

  Felicia flashed him an angry look, but his eyes mocked her, and she held back her retort.

  “I assure you she is,” he continued urbanely, “for I heard her say so myself.”

  He moved away on these words, leaving her smiling reluctantly. He really is a rogue, she thought, but that would explain the hostility she had felt in the atmosphere. Aware that her conversation had been watched by Lady Barbara, she broadened her smile and made her way to the love seat that lady occupied.

  “Lord Umber was telling me how exquisitely you play,” she said smoothly. “I beg that you do us the honor of entertaining us, for it would give me great pleasure to hear some of the tunes I struggle with played by an expert.”

  Flattered by such talk, Lady Barbara agreed and made her way to the piano. Felicia settled herself more comfortably on the love seat and thought smugly that Lord Umber had been well served, for now he would have to turn the pages of music for his flirt.

  He threw her a glowering look as he complied with Lady Barbara’s request, but failed to notice the mischievous gleam in Felicia’s eye. She enjoyed the discomfort he was displaying.

  He could no longer deny the fact to himself, that after a day spent in Lady Barbara’s company her charms were palling and he was beginning to regret the impulse that had caused him to pursue her. She was an empty-headed, vain little puss, who agreed with everything he said. The realization that she bored him came as no real surprise, for it was something that always happened, but what did surprise him was that it happened so quickly. Not that any woman had been able to hold his interest long except for Janie Slagle, but then his relationship with her was entirely different. And now he was beginning to despair that he would ever meet someone whom he could accept as a marriage partner. He knew his mother was worried over his seemingly loose ways, and more than anything he would like to allay her fears. But he simply could not enter a marriage devoid of mutual respect.

  He looked down at Lady Barbara and realized that he had not heard a note she had played. He mentally shook himself awake in time to applaud her and then moved away to speak to David Burton.

  The next few days passed quickly. He managed to escape any intimate encounters with Lady Barbara but found himself increasingly annoyed by the amused looks he caught Felicia casting in his direction.

  Lady Louisa, thankful that her son’s pursuit of Lady Barbara was apparently fading, relaxed and began to enjoy herself and the idea of her upcoming journey to London.

  “I can be quite comfortable now,” she said to Felicia. “For it is obvious that Ian is not going to make an offer in that direction.”

  Felicia agreed with a little laugh, for she was feeling in unusually high spirits. “In sooth, ma’am, I believe you are right. But I fear Lady Barbara had not yet realized it. I declare she is making a proper peagoose of herself. Even Lord Rowbotham noticed that your son’s attitude has changed.”

  Lady Louisa tried to look suitably shocked at the idea that Lord Rowbotham would be so forward as to discuss such delicate matters with a woman, but her disapproving “Tut! Tut!” caused Felicia to giggle again.

  “He compared her to the fairest rose, ma’am. ‘Perfection,’ he said, ‘like a rose, has to have constant attention, if it is to be maintained. And already I perceive a crack.’”

  They both laughed at this.

  “I would never have believed Cuthbert to be so observant,” Lady Louisa said and changed the subject hastily as she saw Mr. Burton approaching.

  *

  That Felicia was enjoying herself in the company was obvious. Both Lord Rowbotham and Mr. Burton were in constant attendance and even Lord Umber did his best to be civil. Felicia did not mistake the attentions of either gentlemen. Lord Rowbotham was happy to find someone who would listen to his latest theories on raising hybrid roses, and Mr. Burton, it seemed, had set himself up as her protector. She might have been perturbed if she had known that Dr. Ross was responsible for this arrangement but, happy in her ignorance, she basked in the unaccustomed friendly atmosphere. Even the haughty demeanor of Lady Barbara failed to puncture her cheerful mood. The only shadow on her enjoyment was the fact that she was still unable to remember much of her past.

  A grudging respect was growing between herself and Lord Umber. Lady Louisa had let slip some details of his charity work and when the opportunity arose, Felicia asked Mr. Burton what these good works were all about.

  “That is something you must ask Ian, yourself, Miss Richards, for he is quite reticent on the subject. The only information I have is privileged.”

  Felicia nodded in understanding, but knew she would never have the courage to raise the topic with Lord Umber. The thought that he was more than just a rake was comforting though, and she was able to observe more clearly the small things he did to insure his mother’s comfort and the pride he showed in the good management of his estate.

  Even Lady Barbara noticed the newfound harmony between the two antagonists and doubled her efforts to be charming whenever Lord Umber was in her vicinity. That she was not going to bring him up to scratch did not enter her mind until Cousin Milly timidly observed that while Lord Umber was always pleasant, he no longer paid her special court.

  “Oh, don’t be so silly, Milly,” Lady Barbara snapped. “He is so busy dancing attendance on his mother, and consulting with his bailiff. He spends as much time as he can with me.”

  “I…I saw him laughing with Miss Richards in the rose garden this morning,” Milly stammered. “For a full…twenty minutes….” she concluded in an outburst of confidence.

  “Pay no heed to that little country mouse, Milly. She had neither the sophistication nor wit to hold the attention of someone so worldly as Lord Umber.”

  “But she is pretty,” Milly persisted. “And Lady Louisa quite dotes on her.”

  “Enough of your chatter, Cousin, you know so little of such things.”

  Milly lapsed into a hurt silence as she wondered when Barbara would face the awful reality that Lord Umber did not care enough to propose. Sighing sadly to herself, she picked up her tatting and continued with her work. She really liked Felicia, but felt somewhat guilty about this and was afraid that Barbara would consider her disloyal. How awkward it was all becoming, and how she wished she was back in the safety of her own home.

  Her words, however, caused Lady Barbara to observe Felicia and Lord Umber more closely and, by the time her visit was over, she realized that perhaps Milly was right for once. Somehow, Lord Umber had escaped the intricate web she had woven to ensnare him, and now she would have to
try other tactics. Either that, or become the laughing stock of London.

  Seven

  Lady Louisa’s arrival halfway through the Season caused a great stir among her friends and acquaintances. For years they had all been trying to persuade her to return to London, and now here she was with the loveliest young lady imaginable in tow. Everyone’s curiosity was aroused when they first saw Felicia, and there was much speculation as to who she was.

  Both Lord Umber and Lady Louisa were noncommittal. In fact Lord Umber was careful not to appear too frequently in public with his mother, for he was loath to give the impression that he was dangling after Felicia. Not that he should have worried, for the betting at White’s was heavily on his announcing his engagement to the Lady Barbara Whitelaw. His pursuit of that auburn-haired beauty had caused no little stir and much jealousy, for she was the belle of the Season and the most sought-after heiress in several years.

  Felicia seemed unaware of the questioning looks she received, for she was far too intent on enjoying herself. She had long since overcome her reluctance to accompany Lady Louisa, for as Dr. Ross had explained, “This journey serves two purposes, Miss Richards. First, Lady Louisa will benefit greatly from a change of scene. Secondly, and more importantly for you, someone may recognize you in London and be able to identify you.”

  “I shall feel like a horse at Tattersall’s” she had protested, “with everyone looking for my finer points.” She paused as she thought of Lord Umber. His attitude toward her had had a lot to do with her unwillingness to comply with Dr. Ross’s request. But now she was not disconcerted by him anymore, in fact, she actually enjoyed his company sometimes. She just wished that they did not argue and misunderstand each other so often.

  “I cannot force you, Miss Richards,” Dr. Ross had said judiciously. “I want you to take your time to think about what I have suggested, before you say yes or no.”

  Felicia narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. “I cannot have you thinking me pusillanimous, Dr. Ross,” she replied with spirit. “It would also be selfish of me to deprive Lady Louisa of such a peregrination. So, yes, I agree to go, providing everyone understands that as soon as word comes from Mrs. Barton, I leave for Manchester.”

  “That’s my girl,” he said approvingly. “And your wish about Manchester is understood. Only we will worry about that when the time comes.”

  The knocker had not been up two days on the house in Berkeley Square, and already the callers were arriving in a continuous flow.

  “’Tis remarkable,” Lady Louisa said, as the ladies were partaking their coffee in the small, blue drawing room on the second evening in town, “how few quiet moments there are. I had quite forgotten how exhausting it can all become. There will be parties we must attend and, of course, I must secure vouchers for Almack’s.”

  Felicia smiled at the excitement in Lady Louisa’s voice. It was quite obvious that her popularity had not diminished one whit during her absence.

  “I have a card here from Lady Jersey, inviting us to tea the day after tomorrow,” Lady Louisa continued. “We shall go, of course, but I do not want you to mention you are my companion.”

  “Whyever not, ma’am?” Felicia asked in surprise.

  “Lady Jersey is your entree to Almack’s, dear child. Only she will not lift a finger to help if she knows you are about to become a governess.”

  “I do not want to deceive anyone,” Felicia argued. “It would be most embarrassing if word leaked out and people started gossiping. Why, you would become the laughingstock of London.”

  Lady Louisa laughed gaily. “Not at all, child. No one will suspect the truth, and I want to make sure you go to Manchester with happy memories. Anyway, Ian has already put the word about that you are a distant relation.”

  “Really, Lady Louisa,” Felicia protested, “I would prefer that you not insist. Besides, I do not want to go to the expense of buying more gowns that will be totally unsuitable when I leave here.”

  “You are acting like an antiquated old fidget, Felicia,” Lady Louisa admonished. “I took the liberty of ordering you some ball gowns when Miss Sophy came down to Alverston.” She raised a hand to prevent Felicia from protesting further. “And I simply refuse to listen to any objections you may have. It is not good for my health.” Her eyes sparkled with laughter as she watched Felicia move uncomfortably in her chair. “There, child. I admire your spirit of independence greatly, but you must learn to bend sometimes, especially to satisfy the whims of an old lady.”

  An involuntary chuckle escaped Felicia. “You leave me no alternative, ma’am, but to accept your generous offer.”

  “I have also asked Ian to secure you a mount. I know how accustomed you have become to your daily rides at Alverston, and I know Ian has a string of horses that are always in need of exercise.”

  “I hope Lord Umber will not consider it an encumbrance, for I do not wish him to think I am incapable of organizing my own divertissement,” Felicia retorted more sharply than she intended and quickly added in a lighter tone when she saw the questioning expression in Lady Louisa’s eyes. “What I meant to say was I do not want Lord Umber to feel obliged to escort me. I am certain he has better use for his time.”

  “I think I am the best judge of that, Miss Richards,” Lord Umber said from the doorway. He bowed deeply. “Good evening, ladies.”

  Felicia cast him a furious look and wondered why it was he always had her at a disadvantage.

  “Good evening, Ian,” Lady Louisa answered. “I take it you have dined.”

  “Too well,” he replied ruefully. “David has a fine chef.”

  “Do come in for a moment, my dear,” Lady Louisa continued. “We were just talking about you.”

  “So I heard,” Lord Umber said mildly. “Myself and horseflesh, I believe.” He turned to Felicia. “I merely dropped by tonight to ask if you will give me the pleasure of your company tomorrow, Miss Richards. I declare I have discovered the prettiest little filly in my stables who is surely in need of a gallop.”

  Felicia felt his eyes mocking her, and she looked at him suspiciously. His conciliatory tone made her feel uneasy, but the temptation of riding in Hyde Park overcame her misgivings. “I will gladly accept, m’lord,” she responded lightly. “Especially as Lady Louisa assures me that to be seen in your company will of a certainty increase my consequence.”

  Lord Umber gave a shout of laughter, and a smile lingered, softening the mockery in his eyes. “I will see you at ten sharp, then.” He bowed as he wished them a good night, at the same time promising his mother he would accompany them both to the theater whenever she desired.

  “Such a dutiful son,” Lady Louisa breathed happily. “I am so fortunate.” Felicia, not wanting to disagree, steered the conversation to safer ground.

  The remainder of the evening was uneventful, and both retired early, so Felicia had no difficulty in presenting herself at the appointed time the following morning.

  The ride was exhilarating, and Felicia found the ritual of the morning ride fascinating. The mild weather had brought out a crowd of strollers, and it seemed to her that all the women were trying to outdo one other with their ridiculous fashions.

  “I have never seen such a silly parade of peahens,” she whispered to Lord Umber, as her gaze took in the scene. Then her eyes picked out the hobbling gyrations of a young dandy who was mincing his way toward a group of young ladies. “Whoever is that, m’lord,” she inquired, her eyes dancing with mirth. “I swear I have never seen the like in my life. Those shoes! Oh! Dearie me!” Unable to hold her laughter a moment longer, she gathered her reins in and trotted away.

  Lord Umber caught up with her and admonished her playfully. “Really, Miss Richards, you must learn to control yourself. Sir Ashbury holds himself in the highest regard and would be most displeased to learn that you are not swooning with admiration.”

  “So that is Sir Ashbury,” Felicia said. “I recall some mention was made of him last week. Lady Philippa said his self-importance
was as large as his fortune. I begin to see what she means.”

  They continued on along Rotten Row, commenting from time to time on various people. They were at ease, and Felicia was once again surprised at their harmony.

  A discreet cough broke into their conversation, and Lord Umber started forward as he saw Lady Barbara waiting to speak to him. Her coachman had drawn up the barouche to one side of the carriage way, but even so it was blocking traffic.

  “Good day, Lord Umber, Miss Richards,” she said frostily. “A lovely morning for taking the air.”

  A few pleasantries were exchanged, neither party lingering, but they stayed long enough for Felicia to get the impression that Lady Barbara was angry at not being included in their party.

  “It would seem that Lady Barbara is offended,” she said, her voice deceptively mild. She had not found much to like in Lady Barbara the previous week, although she herself had gone out of her way to be pleasant. Lady Barbara was a willful, spoilt creature, who was happy only when the conversation concerned her. Felicia had been amazed to learn that Lord Umber had set her up as his latest flirt and wondered whether his intentions were serious.

  “You have stolen a march on her,” Lord Umber replied immodestly. “’Tis not something she is likely to forget or to forgive!”

  “I do believe you are using me,” Felicia retorted angrily. “You deliberately invited me to go riding with you today, knowing that Lady Barbara would be affronted when she saw us. Oh! You…you are unspeakable.”

  “But you do not let the fact that you are using me disturb you? Come, Miss Richards, let us act the part of friends, if only for the sake of appearance. It would not do your standing any good to be seen on the outs with me.”

  The very fact that he was justified in making his comment angered Felicia more. “I wish to go home,” she said ungraciously, a tight smile barely creasing her face. “My thanks for parading me in front of the ton. ’Tis a pity no one recognized me.”

  They trotted home in silence and were soon in front of Lady Louisa’s house. Before Felicia had time to dismount, Lord Umber was off his horse and by her side, forcing her to accept his assistance. He swung her easily to the ground and held her waist a few seconds longer than necessary before releasing her. “Am I forgiven?” he asked mischieviously, as he smiled down at her. “For I swear I did not mean to offend you—only give Lady Barbara a setdown, for she has come to expect too much of me.” Without waiting for an answer, he caught her hand and drew it towards his lips. “I shall look forward to escorting you to the theater.” He kissed her hand briefly and before Felicia could reply, he was up on his horse and away, leading her mount behind him.