Page 97 of When the Marquess Was Mine
Georgiana made a face at her friend, but her air of resolve didn’t falter. “I can learn.”
Chapter 31
“Do you really want to do this?” Sophie asked for the fifth time as they walked up the steps of the Vega Club.
“Absolutely,” said Georgiana through the smile fixed on her lips. “It’s worth a try. Do you think it’s idiotic?”
“Either that, or brilliant, I can’t quite decide. Good evening, Mr. Forbes,” Sophie said to the man who opened the door at their approach but blinked in astonishment at the sight of them.
“Mrs. Campbell—I mean, Your Grace.” The fellow bobbed his head hastily.
“Is Mr. Dashwood in?”
“Ah, madam, he requires an appointment,” said Mr. Forbes apologetically. “And you’re no longer a member.”
“I was hoping he might make an exception. Would you be so kind as to ask him?”
Mr. Forbes glanced at Georgiana, who gave him a polite nod. “On what matter?”
“A desperately important one.” Sophie glanced at Georgiana. “It involves this lady, which is why I’ve brought her.”
The man glanced at her again. “You know the rules, Your Grace. Send a note and make an appointment.”
“No,” said Sophie firmly. “We’ll wait for him to have a moment free.”
He sighed. “He won’t see you.” But he turned and disappeared through a door off to the side.
“That is the manager,” whispered Sophie. “Another useful ally.”
“He doesn’t seem to be on our side,” she replied.
They waited only a few minutes, though, before the manager returned. “This way.” He held the door open, and Georgiana followed Sophie through.
Mr. Dashwood was a tall, lean fellow with a sharply angular face. One could tell by looking at him that he was not a gentleman, even though he was exquisitely dressed.
“Mr. Dashwood,” said Sophie warmly. “Thank you for seeing me.”
“Of course, Your Grace.” His expression betrayed nothing as he bowed. “Forbes said it was a desperately important matter that brings you.”
“I would like to be readmitted to the club,” said Sophie. “And to bring my friend as my guest.”
“One thing I do not do,” said Dashwood, “is admit single ladies.”
“I’m engaged,” said Georgiana quickly, wondering how he knew she was unmarried. “To a member of the club.”
“When you are married, you shall be welcome to apply for membership. Good day, Your Grace, my lady.” He looked at the door in dismissal.
Georgiana took a fortifying breath. “Mr. Dashwood, please reconsider. We need to ruin someone.”
His brow quirked, but no other sign of emotion crossed his face. “Not in my club.”
“No? You limit what members are permitted to wager?”
“In some instances.” He glanced at Sophie. “I trust you remember that.”
Georgiana was interested to see a spot of color bloom in her friend’s cheek. “I do, and this is nothing in that line.”
“Perhaps I should have said, we wish totryto ruin someone,” Georgiana amended. “There is every chance we may fail. If that happens, we’ll accept the consequences and not trouble you any longer.”
