Page 59 of Hearts of Briarwall

Andrew pulled himself up to his full height, his audible sigh nearly a growl.

Spencer gave her a determined nod. “I’ll do my best. We’ll see you ladies at dinner.”

Lydia could barely wait until they’d left the room before taking Violet’s arm. “What on earth? What happened to the plan? Giving Spencer space, remember?”

Violet didn’t even pause as the pair climbed the stairs. “It’sSpenceragain, is it?”

“Violet—”

“Were you able to clear the air with him?”

“Yes, but—”

“Wasn’t that the most important thing?”

“Well, yes, but—”

“I saw an opportunity and switched strategies. Much like the way I trounced your brother.” She paused on the landing and faced Lydia. “I apologize for doing so without any warning to you. You handled it beautifully, though, if that’s any comfort.”

“It took me a few moments to get my bearings, but I don’t think I’ll have a problem mustering the courage to approach him with my investment when it is time to do so again.”

“No trouble at all,” Violet murmured, “from what I observed.” Before Lydia could take in the full meaning of her words, Violet tugged her hand. “He should get down on his knees and thank the stars he has you in his corner. I know I do. As a matter of fact, I’m going to speak to Mother about my own investment in these motor supply shops.”

“Oh, Vi, that’s a wonderful idea!”

“I agree.” They resumed the walk to their rooms. “Now, to put on our feathers. Let’s see if we can’t get Sir Lawrence to spit out his drink from shock or—heaven forbid—laughter at the dining table.”

Lydia smiled, but then slowed her steps. “No. If I’m to show Andrew I’m a grown woman, I should refrain from such frivolity, especially when we have guests. I’m afraid I must make the Piedmonts quite comfortable this evening.”

“You’re right, of course.”

“You, though, are free to enjoy yourself in your usual charming manner.”

Violet sighed. “I will do all in my power to support you in your cause.”

“So you’ve said before, only to abandon me.”

“That wasn’t abandonment. As I said, it was redirection.”

“Suppose next time you’ll give me a signal?”

“Certainly. I’ll squawk like a peacock.”

Lydia’s giggle burst forth as she reached her door and pushed through it.

“See?” she heard Violet say as she continued to the next room where her valise had been stowed with her dinner things. “I’m helping already.”

Chapter 11

“What were you speaking of at such length with my sister?”

The ladies had barely left the room when Andrew lobbed the question in Spencer’s direction.

Spencer froze.Motorcars. Secretly teaching Lydia to drive. Meeting secretly. To drive motorcars... He searched his brain. Surely they must have spoken of some safe subject. “I apologized. For my behavior earlier today. I was dismissive of an idea she had, which resulted in hurt feelings in need of mending.”

Andrew watched him with acute interest. “I see. And are the hurt feelings mended?”

Spencer nodded. “I believe so, yes. She has a very keen mind, your sister. Her idea was a good one, and I should have listened instead of treating her like a child.”As I’ve seen you do, he added silently.

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