Page 47 of A Foreign Crown
Her curtsy was low, her smile genuine.
Layton decided he liked her. “I’m pleased to meet you. Your husband has been of great assistance to me.”
“As I hope to be as well.”
His eyebrows rose. “Do you?”
“Yes, most certainly, for I saw you with that lovely Lady Aribella, and I’ve never seen a finer match. Certainly you are considering her as an added alliance?”
Admiral Hollings coughed. “You might overstep, my dear. Perhaps he does not wish to bare his soul at a luncheon.”
“Oh, tosh. Admitting interest in a woman is not bearing one’s soul. Let’s be practical, shall we?”
Before Layton could respond, they were, thankfully, interrupted by the footman announcing luncheon.
The same servant announced Layton would enter the room first. As Layton turned to look for a lady to escort, Lady Aribella arrived at his side. “I’m sorry I’m late,” she said.
Great waves of emotion flowed through him. “Would you allow me to escort you?” He held out his arm.
“I would be honored.”
“I’m surprised and pleased to see you here, and with none of the other attendants?”
“I have other purposes here, as you will soon notice, I’m sure.”
“Then, by all means, let us join forces to accomplish our assignments.”
“Let’s.” Her eyes held a hint of sadness.
He imagined his did as well. But he determined to enjoy whatever manner of time they were able to spend together. His eyes caught those of Mrs. Hollings, who winked.
He chuckled as he led Lady Aribella to sit at his right.
“What are you laughing about?”
“See the admiral’s wife?” They both turned to see the woman’s smiling face.
“Yes.”
“She’s under the impression that her assignment is to see the two of us form an alliance.”
“What?”
“I was interrupted before I could set her to rights.”
Lady Aribella’s eyes dropped.
And Layton didn’t have anything to say to comfort her, nor did she say anything to contradict him.
As soon as everyone was seated, Prince George at last arrived. He called from the doorway, “Forgive my lateness. I have been fumbling around for a new set of breeches.”
Everyone stood and bowed or curtsied as their space at the table allowed.
He sat at the head, with Prince Layton on his right. Then everyone else retook their seats.
“Let us begin.” He clapped, and the servants stepped forward to serve the food on each plate.
Everything Prinny did was loud. He talked loudly. He ate loudly, and he even drank from his ale cup loudly.
