Page 17 of Ironvine

“Do you know him, Georgina?” asked Henrietta.

“I do. Their home is not far from ours in Gloucestershire. The Montclares and my brother have been friends since childhood. I have not seen him in quite some time. Years, in fact. He’s been abroad mostly, I think.”

Charlotte’s cheeks flushed. “Look at him.”

Georgina followed Charlotte’s gaze and took in Hugh’s figure. Long, sturdy legs. A full head of golden hair, sharp eyes, deep laughter, generous mouth. In his bearing and the tilt of his head, there was confidence and that trademark Montclarehauteur, just like Charles.

Charles stood with him and seemed bored whilst at attention. She grinned to herself.

“The Earl of Ryvves is the most dashing gentleman here tonight,” whispered Henrietta.

“He is, isn’t he?” Georgina hadn’t laid eyes on Hugh Montclare—now the Earl of Ryvves—in a very long time.

“He’s recently taken the title,” remarked Amanda. “Their father passed away.”

The other girls tittered and murmured their appreciation of Hugh.

“What do we think of his brother, Charles, in comparison?” Amanda asked on a short laugh.

Georgina cast her a glance. She knew that Amanda and Charles had once had an affair not too long ago, which had ended badly and quickly, after which Amanda and her husband had left Gloucestershire for good.

“That one has an edge of unkindness to him, I think,” murmured Charlotte.

“There is something callous about him.” Henrietta tilted her head. “So unlike his far superior brother.”

“Hmm. Indeed.” Amanda’s lips curled.

Spreading malevolence wherever she goes, thought Georgina.She can’t help herself.Amanda enjoyed casting shadows on Charles, even now.

“I find Mr. Montclare most handsome as well.” Georgina cast a heavy glance at Amanda.

“The Earl is the clear winner here this evening,” said Charlotte. “What a warm smile he has, such a charming and elegant disposition.”

Hugh did seem the warmer sort of the two. Relaxed, easily amused, a generous conversationalist. Charles seemed more removed, which was rather unlike him. Had he changed over the past year? Grown wearier of society?

“The earl must be looking to wed, don’t you think?” Henrietta raised an eyebrow.

“A title, a vast estate, and a most prodigious fortune by all accounts.” Charlotte sipped her drink. “And he’s a wonderful dancer.”

“Did you dance with him tonight?” Henrietta’s eyes widened.

“Not tonight. Last week.” Charlotte pursed her lips.

“Oh, to capture his attention. To be the object of his affections,” said Henrietta, and they all laughed softly.

Georgina’s heart thumped in her chest.To capture his attention…

Suddenly, the room seemed brighter.

Hugh Montclare blotted out all the Sir Reginald Talbots with one magnificent, blinding stroke. She took in a quick breath, her pulse beating loudly, her fingers tightening around her glass.

Insanity.

Reckless.

Outrageous.

Georgina placed her empty glass on the crowded silver tray, pulled back her shoulders, and moved toward Charles.

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