Page 15 of An Imperfect Scoundrel
“You remind me of someone.” A half-smile pulled the corner of Alana’s mouth.
Opening the door, Mrs. Parker turned, her face thoughtful, as though she wasn’t certain Alana was going to pay her compliment.
“Who?”
“An old friend.”
Thomas Reid was much more than an “old friend,” but one secret was painful enough this evening, and she had no intention of discussing him or any other man during this journey.
“He was always hungry.”
“I believe he and I would be well-suited.” With a grin, Mrs. Parker held out her arm to Alana.
Looping her arm through the older woman’s, Alana followed her into the hallway and closed the door.
Older was also an incorrect description as Mrs. Parker could not be more than a year or two older than Alana. However, she’d married an older man. Mr. Parker appeared to be her senior by at least ten years.
Alana chewed her lip as they walked, Mrs. Parker prattling on about Boston society.
It had to be an arranged marriage.She peeked sideways at Mrs. Parker.An attractive woman such as her would certainly have no trouble finding a suitor. His wealth must have been the deciding factor for her family.
“Where does your family reside?” Alana asked, interrupting Mrs. Parker’s description of the last meal she ate before they set sail.
“Near Wiltshire. Have you heard of it?”
“I know the area.”
“You do?” Mrs. Parker raised her eyebrows in surprise.
“Yes, my father lives to the south of town.”
“What is your father’s name?”
“Aengus Flannery.”
Mrs. Parker’s jaw dropped. “I’ve heard of your family. My father is Josiah Varner.”
“Are you related to Miss Susannah Varner?” Alana stopped walking and stared at Mrs. Parker.
“You know my sister?”
“Only by name.” They resumed strolling, their arms linked together. “Susannah’s companions and mine don’t share similar interests.”
“I will not speak ill of anyone.” Mrs. Parker pursed her lips, staring ahead as they navigated the narrow corridor. After another minute of silence, she spoke again.
“However, I don’t approve of Susannah’s new acquaintances. I haven’t spent much time in Wiltshire, and it’s not my place to direct her. It’s my father’s.”
Sighing, she glanced at Alana.
“I’ve been married to Hugh for nearly eight years. While I don’t regret one moment of that life, I wish I could have spent more time with my sister and given her some direction. Susannah has become the silliest girl, emulating that vile Miss Shirely.”
Even Mrs. Parker knew of Miss Shirely’s reputation.
“My dear!” Mr. Parker appeared in front of them, a jovial smile lit his face. “I was coming to search for you. I thought you may have become lost.”
His eyes skipped over Alana, twinkling merrily. “I do hope you were delayed due to conversation.”
“We were,” Mrs. Parker matched his grin and accepted his offered elbow. “I have the most wonderful news… Mrs. Dubois is fromWiltshire!”
