Page 7 of A Lady's Curves
Practically jumping for joy, I leap up and shake his hand. “I’m so pleased. I will have the Kendall carriage drive you backand it will return for you in the morning. No need to hire another hack.”
“Everton Domestic Society, you say.” The butler gives me a long look.
“Yes, Jenkin. We are ladies who have chosen honest work in the service of others, though our employment is generally for the short term. Once I’ve sorted out the books and houses, I’ll hire a reputable steward and move on to another assignment.” I have no idea why that should create an ache in my chest. I should be happy with the idea of not seeing Oscar again. His behavior is erratic and socially inappropriate. Still, there were moments when he looked at me and my heart pounded in a way that was different than the effect anyone else has ever had.
I brush that silliness aside and see the Jenkins to the door.
Closing it behind them, I lean on the inside.
Honoria grins at me. “I’m surprised they didn’t ask after the earl.”
“He prefers the house in Scotland. I think they rarely saw him.”
“A shame he’s so difficult, but I know you’ll sort him, his niece, and his estates out. You’re the finest of all the Everton Ladies.” Honoria sways and climbs the steps. It’s as if there is music only she hears.
I think she exaggerates. I’m just the only one who continues on at Everton. Many ladies come for a season or two and find husbands, or return home. For me, Everton House is home. So why does that make me sad?
I’ve moved my work to the small lady’s desk near the bookshelves. It’s the opposite side of the study which is at least thirty feet long and fifteen feet wide. This way I can leave notes on papers that I need Oscar to sign or read over, but he and I are not sharing the same space.
It’s been a week since he moved out.
The household has accepted its first invitation to a ball tomorrow night. I feel more nervous than Louisa.
“That was my mother’s desk. I offered to give it to her when she moved to the dower house, but she declined, saying that she wanted new things for her new start.” Oscar stands in the doorway to the study with his hands behind his back.
I rise and curtsy.
He bows. His expression looks pained, with creases at the outer corners of his eyes and his lips pulled into a frown. He’s in evening clothes, but nothing fancy, just a black evening suit and a white shirt with a cravat.
“I was not expecting to see you until tomorrow, my lord.” I’m gripping the edge of the desk as if it’s holding me across the room.
Stepping inside, he leans on the back of his desk. “I apologize. I should have sent a note. It seems the valet, Bolton, who you sent to me needs access to my full wardrobe if I’m to be presentable at a ball. I came along to make sure that you have everything you need.”
“Yes. We are fine. I’m glad Bolton is working out. He came highly recommended. I’ve also hired a new maid and lady’s maid for Louisa.” My voice sounds tentative. I don’t like it. I pull my shoulders back and lift my chin to bolster my courage.
He smiles. “I saw Jenkin when I entered. He gave me a piece of his mind.”
I’m about to defend the butler, but Oscar holds up a handto stop me. “He has every right to be cross with me. It was kind of him and Mrs. Jenkin to return.”
“At a twenty-five percent increase to their wage.” I can’t help liking that they bargained for more money.
“I’m sure they were woefully underpaid and deserved the increase.” He stares at his highly polished shoes before looking at me. “Does Louisa have what she needs for the ball?”
“Yes. Your sister sent her trunk. She has a very fine selection of gowns for the season.” I have so many questions to discern his character, but I keep them to myself.
“And you?” His green eyes cut through me as if he can see into my soul.
Swallowing down the effects, a nervous giggle tries to escapes. I quash it. “What about me?”
“Do you have everything you need to attend a ball?” His voice is soft, warm, and filled with warning.
Those bells ring in my ears. “I will be appropriately dressed for my position, my lord.”
He straightens and clears his throat. “Of course.”
“May I ask you something?” I release the desk and step closer.
He nods, his gaze boring through me.
