Page 13 of Hearts of Briarwall

Andrew nodded and rubbed his hands together. “Well. Now that we all know each other, I’ll show Mr. Hayes to his room so he can get settled. We’ll be down shortly.”

The girls watched the gentlemen leave and waited until the sound of footsteps in the corridor faded.

Lydia faced Florrie, who was just as wide-eyed. Together, they broke into a hushed flurry of speaking over one another.

“I thought you said he—”

“He’s changed so much I—”

“I’d never have guessed he was from—”

“When he spoke I just about—”

Ralston cleared his throat, and the girls fell silent, quickly glancing at the butler.

Florrie led Lydia to the sofa and pulled her down next to her.

“What do you think of your ornithologist clockmaker now?” she whispered.

“He is notmyornithologist clockmaker.”

“You know what I mean. He is handsome, though I wouldn’t put him in the same class as Andrew.” She set Nibs down on the rug.

“Nobodyis in the same class as Andrew,” Lydia said with a sigh. She paused. “He was very ... intent. He did not smile, did you notice? It was almost there, and then it wasn’t. And did you notice his accent? I expected moreBrummieand less London.”

“Why do you think I got him talking? He is likely upper class. You simply must find out more about your houseguest. And if you don’t, I will.”

“Have at it,” Lydia said.

Florrie only pursed her lips.

Lydia conceded. “He does have extraordinary eyes, doesn’t he? I did not remember that from before.”

“Yes, and you did well, overcoming that abysmal introduction of Andrew’s. For such a sensible man, he can be quite oblivious.”

“You noticed, did you? I felt all of twelve years old. And what was with all that cheerfulness? I hardly recognized my own brother.”

“Never mind him.” Florrie grabbed Lydia’s hands. “I’m glad I stayed for dinner. This will be far more interesting than I’d hoped.”

“You have that look.”

“What look?”

Florrie had round, sky-blue eyes, and she knew how to wield them.

Lydia pulled her hands away. “That look that always comes before trouble.”

Florrie batted her eyes with all the innocence of a lagoon mermaid. “I am simply here to support you as hostess.”

Lydia narrowed her gaze at her friend, then let it go. “Thank you.” She paused. “I should like to see Mr. Hayes smile, though.”

Florrie gasped in delight. “Let’s make it our mark for the evening.”

“What, to make Mr. Hayes smile?”

“Yes. It is your duty. As his hostess.” She grinned.

Lydia frowned, unsure. “Perhaps the man has good reason not to smile. Perhaps he’s shy. Or has horrible teeth.”

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