Page 46 of A Perfect Engagement
“Lord Weston,” came a voice from his left. “Lord Weston!”
He turned to find Lady Susanna standing at his elbow.
“Forgive me for saying so, but you look like you are about to murder someone.” She flipped open her fan. “If you stare any harder at her, you shall burn a hole in the back of her head.”
Daniel couldn’t respond for a moment. He took in a deep breath and attempted to focus on the lady in front of him. Lady Susanna gave him a toothy smile while she glanced around them. Then she took hold of his arm firmly.
“Lord Weston, won’t you take a turn around the room with me?”
“Of course, Lady Susanna.” They strolled slowly. “Thank you,” he murmured.
“You’re welcome. Tonight must be very difficult.” She patted his arm.
“I don’t know what you mean.”
“The other night, when I said you would make a good husband, I meant it. You are so attentive. You always have eyes for Charlotte. I can tell you care for her, whether you should or not.”
Lord Haverty and his friend walked up. “Lord Weston. I see you have finally arrived. Care to have a brandy with us?”
“Leave us alone, Haverty. Lord Weston is taking me on a turn around the room. Run along.” Lady Susanna gave the two men a blindingly sunny smile before continuing them on their path around the edge of the room. Daniel glanced back over his shoulder to find both men standing rather dumbstruck, staring after them.
“Impressive.”
Charlotte’s friend waved her fan dismissively. “Now, what are you going to do about Charlotte and your brother?”
“Nothing. I don’t know what you mean.” This lady’s brashness was apparently boundless.
“I know she cares for you. It has been eating her up with guilt.” She paused and looked him directly in the eye. “I am breaking a huge tenet of friendship by sharing this information with you. Do not let me down.”
Did Charlotte care for him? His heart tightened in his chest. He didn’t want to know she returned his feelings. The situation was already impossible, and the last thing he needed was to foolishly hope. Lady Susanna stared up at him with wide, hopeful eyes.
There was nothing to do. He had let himself fall head over heels for a girl who smelled like roses and ate cake like a seductress. A girl who was promised to his brother.What if you dared to steal her away?He shook his head. He didn’t need another female to care for anyway. And he certainly didn’t need to make an enemy out of his brother, his best friend.If you spoke with Miles, maybe he would understand. He wants your happiness.Phoebe’s words rang out in his head.
He glanced over at Charlotte and Miles. She smiled up at his brother, and they both laughed at something. No, he could not entertain the idea that she would want him over Miles. Miles was the brother with the title, the social standing, the appropriate wardrobe.
Daniel was a fool. But he didn’t have to stand around and act like one. “I’m sorry, but there is nothing to do. She is engaged to Miles. She has what she wants, her titled husband, her escape from her family home, everyone’s approval of her choices.” He tossed back his brandy. “Lady Susanna, please excuse me. I need some air.”
*
Charlotte stifled anotheryawn. Would Father ever stop talking about his blasted coal bill? She glanced over to her right. Daniel and Susanna strolled along the perimeter of the room, arm in arm. They made an attractive pair. Daniel, with his quick wit and good heart, would be the perfect husband for the always up for adventure Susanna. Charlotte pushed down the bubble of jealously which rose from her gut. She wanted nothing but the best for her friend. But her eyes couldn’t help but follow the two of them as they walked down the length of the room deep in conversation. Lady Dearborn walked up to their small group, allowing Charlotte to turn from her thoughts.
Susanna’s mother patted her arm affectionately. “Charlotte dear, this week has been perfect. I know your mother and father are so pleased you have made such a successful match.” She smiled at Charlotte’s mother, who glowed under the praise.
“Thank you, Lady Dearborn,” Charlotte replied.
“You are a good friend to my Susanna. I’m pleased you are such a good model of behavior. She continues to make poor decisions. It’s because she is so impetuous. She needs to mature yet.”
Charlotte groaned inwardly. Susanna would be mortified if she knew her mother spoke about her like she was a child. At twenty, Susanna was the youngest of their group of friends. Long ago in the bookshop, Susanna had overheard Ellie and Charlotte talk about beginning a book club. She had introduced herself and asked what day and time. No matter how outlandish Susanna’s behavior sometimes, the truth was she preferred to have her nose in a book than sit around and gossip with girls her own age about fashion and suitors. She had a good heart and made a fierce friend.
Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Susanna and Daniel speaking by the pianoforte. They both wore intense expressions. What were they discussing?
“Actually, I see Susanna now. If you will excuse me?”
“Of course, dear.” Her mother leaned in to kiss her on the cheek. “Don’t be long.”
As Charlotte made her way across the room, she was waylaid by Mr. and Mrs. Kenwoody. “Miss Grisham, tonight has been delightful. Thank you for inviting us,” Mrs. Kenwoody gushed.
“Yes, dinner was perfect. Never had such a good meal,” Mr. Kenwoody boomed.
