Page 37 of Sinful Persuasion of a Lady in the Making
“I appreciate that,” Jenny said, nodding sadly. “He is a good brother. But I wish he could trust my judgment on Lord Hartwood. I am not a foolish girl, but a woman of seven-and-twenty. And besides,” she smiled broadly, “I find myself rather drawn to him.”
“I could tell,” Alison admitted. “And from the way he gazed at you as you danced, I’d say he seemed rather drawn to you, too.”
“Yes,” Jenny said, looking down at her hands and nodding. “I felt that. It was as though we’ve known each other forever. Talking to him, being with him—it felt easy. Does that make sense?”
“It makes perfect sense,” Alison said. “And I believe it’s all the more reason that youshouldsee him.”
Jenny’s head shot up, her mouth open in shock.
“Are you saying—?”
“I am saying,” Alison said carefully, “that returning his handkerchief is the perfect excuse. Of course, visiting a gentleman in such a way is a little—”
“Improper?” Jenny offered.
“Unusual,” Alison said, although Jenny knewimproperwas what she had meant. “But if this is important to you, and I can see that it is, then I encourage you to follow your heart. I will keep your secret—for now. But please, Jenny, be careful. Luke’s concern for you is not unfounded.”
“You’re sure?” Jenny asked, her heart beginning to tap out a rhythm of excitement against her chest.
“I’m sure,” Alison said, smiling up at Jenny as she pushed her chair back, gave her a final nod, and dashed out of the room.
