Page 49 of The Viscount's Daring Cinderella
Theodore was admittedto the drawing room of Lady Flora Ely. He had given his card to the butler who promptly went in search of Lady Flora. He was far too anxious to sit, and he stood pacing the confines of the room. It was a well-appointed room that was tastefully furnished, but he did not care to note the pieces. He was far too preoccupied with the reason for his visit. Everythingelse seemed inconsequential. Theodore did not bother to get an investigator to find Beryl because he knew just the person who would have the information on her whereabouts. It was fortuitous that he had a good memory, so he recalled when Beryl told him the pirate at the masquerade was her friend Lady Flora.
Finally, the door opened and Lady Flora entered. Theodore spun around and faced her. His heart was pounding in his chest, and he struggled to control his emotions. He needed Lady Flora’s help, so it was important for him to win her over.
Lady Flora arched a brow. “To what do I owe the honor of this visit, Lord Bowden.”
“I am given to understand that you are a close friend of Lady Beryl Keene.”
Flora gave a haughty reply. “I am.”
“She is my governess at Bowden Park,” Theodore said.
“I am aware of that, Lord Bowden.”
Theodore shifted his weight from one foot to the other. “I must speak with her, Lady Flora. It is important. I know that you know where she is.”
“I cannot help you, Lord Bowden. I can tell you she is not here.”
“She may not be here, but you know where I can find her. Lady Beryl does not have many friends in society, and she is closest to you. You are the only one to whom she would turn.”
“Whyever do you think so?”
Theodore held her steady gaze. “The masquerade ball.”
Lady Flora gasped. “I did not think she would speak of it.”
“We spoke of many things.” Theodore sighed heavily.
“I see.” Flora replied, her gaze more assessing.
“Believe me when I tell you that she does not wish to see you, my lord. If she did, she would have left you a letter with her whereabouts when she departed. She wanted to be alone,” Flora said.
He was consumed with watching her facial expressions. He would make his point, and there was not time for pride. Not now. There was too much at stake. “I am heartily sorry for being such a fool, and she needs to know. It must come from me, and I do not wish to wait for a week.”
Flora’s features softened at his words, but he had not succeeded in changing her mind. “I am sorry that I am not able to assist, Lord Bowden.”
Theodore could feel his temper rising. “I may appear outwardly calm, Lady Flora, but I am angry.”
“Youare angry?” she said as her brows furrowed.
Theodore struggled to control himself. “Yes.”
Flora arched a brow. “My good Lord Bowden, you were the one that was so arrogant and inconsiderate. You hurt her terribly.”
Theodore nodded. “I know it. Apparently, you have heard from her so you know the details.”
“I am fully aware of what transpired,” Flora announced.
“I am sure Lady Beryl did not only speak about my faults for I have virtues.” Theodore scrubbed his hands over his face. I am not afraid to beseech you. I know that I have been a fool, and there is so much that I want to say to Lady Beryl. These are my deepest feelings, and I must pour my heart out to her.” Theodore’s words were heartfelt.
Lady Flora opened her mouth, and then she hesitated before she spoke. “I have never seen my dear friend so hurt.”
Theodore ran his hand through his hair in frustration. “But do you not see that if we are not able to resolve this issue she will be hurt for a long time, and I will be hurt for even longer?”
“Do you mean you will hurt because she is not your mistress?” Lady Flora’s hand flew to her lips, and Theodore theorized she had said too much.
The blood drained from Theodore’s head, and he flopped down onto a sofa to prevent himself from falling to the floor.
Lady Flora rushed forward, arm outstretched. “Are you well, my lord?”
