Page 69 of Wicked Rivals
“You look lovely, Joanna,” Charles added.
“Thank you, Charles.” She ducked her head a little as she took a seat next to Rosalind. “Is it true? You and Ashton are officially affianced? Mother was worried it would not happen, but Ashton told her this morning before he left that he was setting a date!” The hope in her voice surprised Rosalind. She’d only known Joanna a few days, but she acted as if this was news she desperately hoped was true.
“Yes, it’s true.”
“That’s wonderful! Oh, Rosalind… Wait, may I call you that?”
“Please.”
“I’m so happy for you! For us!” Joanna’s grin was nothing if not infectious. “I’ve always wanted a sister.”
“Joanna, you have one. Or are you forgetting Thomasina?” Charles asked.
“She was married when I was still a child. It will be wonderful to have you here. With Rafe and Ashton around, I’m always outnumbered.”
Rosalind patted her hand. “But won’t you be married soon, and with your own children?”
Joanna paled. “My seasons have not gone well. Not one card, not one call at the house. I don’t know what’s wrong with me that no man should—”
“Now see here, Joanna,” Charles growled. “Don’t put the blame on yourself. It’s your brother who’s scaring men off, even though he doesn’t mean to. It’s the same with my sister Ella. She can’t find a soul to court her, because all the sensible men believe I’d test them in the ring at Fives Court.”
“Would you?” Rosalind asked.
“Of course. Anyone who couldn’t best me wouldn’t be allowed in my drawing room.”
“That hardly seems fair to your sister.”
Charles shrugged. “It is what it is.”
This declaration made matters worse by the way the color drained from Joanna’s face. “Then I’ll never have a chance.”
“No, don’t say that. I can help you. Ashton and I both will.” If she was to be part of this family and Joanna wanted to marry, the least Rosalind could do was help her with that.
“Thank you.” Joanna’s eyes brightened again. “I heard we’re going shopping today for your trousseau?”
“Apparently.” Rosalind chuckled. “I look forward to it.”
“Shopping? Lord, what a bore.” Charles pushed his chair back and rose from the table. “I’m off to do a bit of riding.”
Rosalind and Joanna finished their meal before leaving the dining room.
A footman came forward. “The coach is ready. Lady Lennox is already waiting.”
“Thank you.” Joanna took Rosalind’s arm as they walked toward the carriage. “Can you believe it? We’re actually getting my brother married.”
Rosalind sighed. Yes, and in doing so she was sealing her fate.
Chapter Eighteen
“If I ever have to look at another bonnet again, I’ll die.” Rosalind laughed as she exited the milliner’s shop.
Joanna yawned. “Agreed. I didn’t know there would be so many to try on.”
After spending two hours at various clothing establishments searching for gowns and other assortments of items needed for a trousseau, the Lennox House footman was laden with boxes piled so high he could barely see. Rosalind and Joanna couldn’t stop giggling each time the poor fellow bumped into something while they walked along the street.
Regina joined them, pulling on her gloves. “I believe we must have bought half the shops out.” She nodded to the footman. “Thank you, Jacob. We’re done for the day. I believe it’s time to return home.”
“Yes, I’m famished.” Joanna laid a hand on her stomach. “I missed luncheon because…well, Charles was there, and that man always makes me so nervous. Besides, Ashton will be home soon.”
