Page 52 of Duke of Silver
“But the change of scenery was much welcome,” she added, glancing around the room that now felt more vibrant with her family’s presence.
“Now you’re back in the fray,” Anna chimed in with a playful chuckle, her impish smile making Elizabeth smile in return.
“Indeed we are,” a new voice joined in, and Elizabeth’s heart gave a small leap of surprise.
She looked up to find Alexander standing at the entrance of the drawing room, his presence commanding as always. He met her gaze briefly, and she thought she saw a flicker of warmth there before he turned his attention to her family.
“You’re welcome to our humble home, ladies,” Alexander said as he stepped further into the room, his tone gracious and welcoming.
“Thank you, Your Grace,” they all replied in unison, their manners impeccable as they dipped their heads in acknowledgment.
“Would you like to join us for tea?” Petunia offered, her voice taking on the tone of a practiced hostess, despite being the guest herself.
Elizabeth couldn’t help but chuckle softly at the sight. Petunia was still Petunia, always ready to take charge of any situation,and the familiarity of it filled Elizabeth with a warm sense of belonging.
But Alexander shook his head slightly, a small, apologetic smile on his lips. “I’m afraid I must make an urgent appearance at the House of Lords,” he said, and Elizabeth felt a faint pang of disappointment, quickly followed by doubt. Was this just another of his excuses, a convenient way to avoid spending time together?
“There’s always a next time then,” her aunt replied brightly, seemingly unperturbed by his departure.
But before Elizabeth could dwell on her thoughts, Alexander spoke again, his words catching her completely off guard. “In that case, how about dinner to make up for it?” he suggested, his gaze meeting Elizabeth’s with a surprising earnestness. “Liz and I would love to have you all over,” he added, his tone warm and inviting.
“Sounds marvelous,” three voices echoed with identical excitement, their enthusiasm lighting up the room.
As Alexander made his exit, Elizabeth felt a mix of emotions swirling within her—surprise, confusion, and a flicker of something that felt like hope. Was this another attempt to bridge the gap between them, or simply a courteous gesture for the sake of appearances? She couldn’t be sure, but she found herself wanting to believe in the former.
“He calls you Liz, eh?” Peggy suddenly turned to Elizabeth with a mischievous grin as Alexander left.
“Liz sounds sweet. A little too excessive for my taste, but just perfect for you, Lizzy,” Anna remarked with a playful wink at Peggy, and the pair dissolved into laughter.
Elizabeth felt the warmth of a blush creeping up her neck. “Do not start, you two,” she admonished gently, though her voice carried more amusement than censure.
“Why ever not?” Peggy retorted with a mischievous grin. “You did say you missed us, did you not?”
“I missedyou,not your mischief,” Elizabeth replied, a soft laugh escaping her.
“Oh, but there are no half measures, Lizzy darling,” Anna interjected with mock gravity. “If you miss us, you must take us as we are—mischief and all.”
“Well said, Anna,” Peggy agreed, nodding sagely. Their shared laughter filled the room, light and carefree, warming Elizabeth’s heart.
“Oh, you two. Do give the girl a reprieve. She has only just returned,” Aunt Petunia chided, though the twinkle in her eye and the soft chuckle that followed showed she was not entirely displeased by their antics.
Elizabeth shook her head fondly. “How is Uncle? I cannot wait to call upon him as well,” she asked, her tone bright with anticipation.
“He was summoned to the House of Lords this morning,” Petunia replied, her expression softening as she spoke of her husband. “But he sent his warmest regards, naturally.”
Elizabeth nodded, but beneath her composed exterior, her mind was awhirl with questions. She wondered about their financial situation, how society had treated them in the wake of the scandal, and whether they had heard the new rumors that plagued her so. But she kept her concerns hidden, choosing instead to wear a smile as they conversed over tea.
“So, Lizzy,” Anna began, her curiosity evident, “what news do you bring from your time away?”
Elizabeth hesitated for a moment, then decided to steer the conversation toward a more pleasant topic. “I have recently struck up a friendship with the Viscountess Compton,” she said, her tone lightening at the memory of the lively woman.
“I have heard of Lady Compton,” Petunia remarked, her interest piqued. “They say she prefers the quiet of the countryside to the hustle of London society. Her gatherings are said to be quite unparalleled in their charm.”
“Indeed,” Elizabeth agreed with a soft laugh, recalling the Viscountess’s infectious energy and the warmth she had shown.It was a friendship she had not anticipated but one she had quickly come to treasure.
“Is that a Ra figurine?” Peggy exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. Without waiting for a reply, she jumped to her feet and crossed the room to inspect the display on an end table, her fascination with ancient Egypt as strong as ever.
Elizabeth watched with a fond smile as her sister leaned in to examine the small statue. “Such a beautiful place you have here, Lizzy. I am so happy for you,” Aunt Petunia said, her voice warm as she too allowed her gaze to wander around the drawing room, taking in the elegant furnishings and tasteful decor.
