“I see. I became acquainted with him at Hannah’s wedding.”
Lady Grace nodded, watching Evie’s face through somewhat narrowed eyes. Evie put a hand to her face, hoping that there was no redness left upon it. Lady Grace took her arm and led her to regain the others. They went about the festivities, but Evie found herself distracted and somewhat jittery. Lord Boyd seemed to have that effect upon her. She had hardly ever been so strongly impressed upon by anybody. The two had only been twice in company and Evie had to remind herself that he remained a stranger. Perhaps later on that night she would have a greater opportunity to speak with him and familiarize herself.
Evie hardly paid attention at the games, too busy daydreaming ahead of the next time she would see Lord Boyd. She thought of the things she might say and the impression she hoped to make upon him. After taking leave to go ready herself for the evening, she took extra care to insure that she was fair. She was sure to powder and perfume herself well, adjusting her wig upon her head to be sure that it was well-placed. She tried not to overdress, yet she hoped that she were striking enough.
Finally, she had to go as not to fall behind, with one final look in the mirror. She found herself satisfactory and joined the others leaving for the soiree. Lady Grace was going on with her own friends, so Evie ventured out with Lady Isabella and her party. She felt nervous butterflies about her stomach and attempted to calm her nerves. She could not believe what effect the young gentleman was having on her.
The soiree was in full swing upon arrival and it proved to be quite popular. Every person in which they had encountered so far seemed to be in attendance, along with many other faces that had hitherto been unseen. Lady Isabella began to greet known associates, seeming to be of higher spirits than the night before. Evie was glad to see it. Lady Isabella introduced her about to many, so many that she began to feel the faces and names begin to blur. She looked about the room subtlety, wanting not to appear eager.
As her eyes roved about the many faces they landed upon Thaddeus, who was in conversation with a group of gentlemen. Evie had not seen him all day. She noticed a change in his appearance. It seemed that he too was not immune to the effects of the seaside, looking a bit refreshed and relaxed. Evie continued to look through the faces for the assured blue eyes of Lord Boyd. She could not seem to discern him any place.
Just as she began to become discouraged that he might not be attending she heard a voice behind her saying, “Good evening, Miss Seymour.” She turned to face Lord Boyd, who looked absolutely delightful. She smiled and said, “Good evening, Lord Boyd. So lovely to see you.”
“Indeed. I had become concerned that you may have made some other plans. I am pleased to discover you here.”
He put out a hand for hers and Evie gently placed upon just the tips of his fingers. He bowed slightly, just barely brushing her hand across his lips. She felt a tingling sensation where his lips had touched. She withdrew her hand, feeling that there might be a slight tremble detectable in it. She cleared her throat and said, “This is quite the soiree.”
“Ah yes, it is. There is a very lively game of charades about if that is of interest to you.”
“That sounds splendid.”
Evie turned to Lady Isabella saying, “Might we join a game of charades.”
Lady Isabella turned and upon seeing Lord Boyd said, “Ah, Lord Boyd, how do you do?”
He replied, “I am well. I am glad to find you here.”
“Oh yes, it is quite an occasion. You see this vacation represents a most pleasant time in my life. I have become engaged and shall soon be betrothed to His Grace Emanuel Montgomery. Surely you are familiar?”
He nodded, saying, “Yes, I am acquainted with him. Congratulations on your impending nuptials.”
“Thank you ever so much. Surely you shall attend. I am not aware of the invitations, but please do await my correspondence, I should like you to be there.”
“I would be honored. Perhaps you would fancy a game of charades.”
Lady Isabella looked sidelong at Evie and said, “Absolutely! Let us be on!”
She gathered the remainder of her associates and they all made their way over to what had become quite the raucous session of charades. It appeared that some had been at the drink already and were being a bit liberal with their movements and guesses. It was not entirely unpleasant. Although Evie paid attention to that which was taking place around her, she could not help but be aware of Lord Boyd’s presence at her elbow. He seemed to be quite proficient at the game, making many correct responses.
Throughout the evening Evie found herself drifting about at Lord Boyd’s side. He seemed to be well-respected and spoke at length with a good number of attendees. She maintained the impression of him that he was of good breeding and yet there was no excess arrogance and pomp about his manner. He maintained his decorum, but with a softer air, not quite warm, but bereft of coldness. He would turn to Evie and introduce her to his associates, at times placing his hand on her arm just so. She began to look forward to the touch of his hand upon her skin. She listened to his conversation, which was direct, yet not without charm. After some time, they were able to once again have their own conversation. Lord Boyd said, “It seems that we may be seeing each other again very soon. You will of course be in attendance at Lady Isabella’s ceremony?”
“Yes, I shall. I am looking forward to it.”
“It shall suddenly prove a pleasant occasion. Lord Montgomery as a right gentleman, I have little doubt that his family will be insuring elegance and finery.”
“It promises to be a memorable affair.”
“I should like my own ceremony to be thus appointed.”
Evie was startled by Lord Boyd’s mention of his own future nuptials. She felt a swooping in her belly, wondering if it were an idle remark or if he were already intended. She asked, making an effort to keep her voice even, “Are you also soon to be betrothed?”
“Not so soon as she. I have no intended at this time.”
Evie felt a great sense of relief. She would have been quite disappointed to find that Lord Boyd were already to be wed with another. She went on, “I see. I would think someone of your high position would be obligated already.”
“My father passed away some time ago. It was perhaps he who would have insisted upon some particular union amongst the ranks. My mother, however, has made no designs. I do not believe she is entirely given to sentiment, I dare say she simply wishes to leave such matters to me. I do appreciate it.”
Evie nodded in understanding. She was glad to hear it. She said, “I am sorry to hear of the loss of your father.”
“It has been quite some time now, however, I do appreciate your condolences. I do not believe that it shall be long before I have become intended.”
At those words, Lord Boyd seemed to look upon Evie intently. At least that was her hope. She could think of no words besides, “It is the season of nuptials.”
He replied, “Indeed.”
The evening bore on and the soiree begin to die down. Lord Boyd said, “I certainly hope that I shall encounter you again upon these shores. Should I not, I look forward to seeing you at the wedding of Lady Isabella. I must take my leave.”
“Oh yes. I as well. I would like to thank you for the pleasant company and I wish you pleasant dreams. Good night to you.”
“And to you.”
The two parted. Evie watched as Lord Boyd walked away. Before he had left her sight, he cast back one final glance before moving on. Evie felt a warming sensation in spite of the coolness of the surrounding evening. Her bodied shivered slightly. She could not be sure if it were the night breeze or not. With a shock, she felt something being draped about her shoulders and she turned to find Thaddeus draping his frock coat upon her. He said, “You appear to be catching cold.”
“Thank you for your concern. It is not necessary. You may keep your coat.”
“I do not need it. Warm yourself.”
“Thank you.”<
br />
Evie did not know what to say. It was more words than the two had exchanged in days. She could not quite read the expression upon Thaddeus’s face. He was looking at her almost searchingly, as if he expected something from her. Perhaps it was the coldness that had taken root between them. Evie did not at that time feel any ill-will towards him. Perhaps it was the lingering effects of her encounter with Lord Boyd. All the same she decided to accept the gesture and began to take leave of the place.
Evie could feel Thaddeus keeping pace with her. She wondered vaguely if he were standing by to retrieve his coat. She made to remove it, but he placed his hand on her shoulder keeping it in place. She kept it draped until she had made it to her quarters. She then slipped the coat off and handed it back to Thaddeus. He draped it over his arm. She expected him to walk off, but he did not. He lingered there a few moments more. As she made to enter the door she turned to him and said, “Good night.”
He returned, “Good night.”
As she turned the handle of the door he left for his own rooms. Evie wondered vaguely at this change in address towards her. Had the sea been that transformative to his manner? She did not know. She thought vaguely that perhaps it was time to forego her attitude and return to more civil relations with Thaddeus. Perhaps they should not return to their former rapport, but they could at least reclaim the formality that had preceded it. Return to correctness if not pleasantry.
As Evie prepared for bed, her mind returned to Lord Boyd. She wondered if perhaps she were not taking her perception of his interest out of proportion. While he certainly seemed direct in his attraction, it was not an indication of more serious intentions. She should not like to once again put herself in position to be fooled. She would be rational and allow things to unfold as they should.
The following morning, Evie woke lightly, excited to face the day. It would be spent largely upon the beach awash in the salty aroma of the sea and bathed in sunlight. She went down to breakfast in the open air and delighted in the warmth of the sun’s rays upon her. Thaddeus joined herself, Lady Grace, and two of her friend’s at the table. As he sat down Evie turned to him and said, “Good morning.”
He responded, “Good morning.”
The exchange was gracious, yet not too friendly. Lady Grace seemed to take note of the renewed civility, passing a glance between the two of them. There was no further conversation. Evie turned her eyes toward the sea, watching the sun reflect off of the surface. She could just make out some boats out in the distance. It was all such a pleasant sight. Once they had finished breakfast, they found chairs on which to lounge on the beach. They settled down under parasols and watched the other beachgoers.
It was a peaceful day, the last which they would be spending at the resort. Evie would miss it dearly and could not wait to return some time in the future. She believed it to be her new favorite place. She did not encounter Lord Boyd on that day, but she was not disappointed. She knew that she would be seeing him again soon.
She found Lady Isabella in floundering spirits. She found occasion to speak with her privately. She said, “Lady Isabella, I know that you are not happy with your circumstances, but I assure you it will be quite alright.”
“It matters not. Whether it should be alright or not, it is to be. My days at maidenhood are no more.”
“Were you at very least able to make the acquaintance of Lord Montgomery?”
“Yes, he was there. He was not an entirely ghastly man. Quite typical for higher nobility.”
“There is a chance that you two will get on exceptionally well.”
“Could be. Either way we shall get on. So long as our union is not that of my mother and father I should be content. Perhaps I shall soon have a baby. A precious little baby. I should find pleasure in that.”
Lady Isabella appeared to find some hope in that. Evie was glad of it. It was an unfortunate situation to find one’s self destined for a stranger. There could be no approximating what was to come. She prayed that Lady Isabella might gain a fine husband. She certainly deserved one. The next she saw her cousin, she would be preparing to become Lady Montgomery. It should be quite the sight.
The following day they loaded back into the coach and set off for Wellington Manor. Evie threw back one final look at the sea. She hoped that she would be able to maintain her sense of contentment for some time. She felt restored and prepared to face the remainder of the season. It seemed that her fortunes were turning. She could feel deep down inside of her that soon she too might be anticipating her nuptials. She did not dare think the name of any particular intended. Yet, all the same, a face swam in the recesses of her mind that she may find herself standing across the altar from.
Chapter 25
Thaddeus felt like an entirely new man upon returning from the trip to the seashore. Many believed the sea to have healing properties and he had certainly experienced them. It had been quite the experience returning to the sea without Abigail. Yet, he was still able to reclaim the contentment of the place.
He had felt so much better that it had facilitated a truce between himself and Evie. He had grown tired of the harshness between them and deemed it preferable to let it pass. She had been surprisingly amenable to it and it seemed they had regained some sense of civility between them. They exchange words once more, though not nearly to the length as previously.
The Duke began to feel like himself again. He conducted business in good measure and continued enjoying the athletic clubs and even some cards, though no more gambling. He had received correspondence from Lord Cornelius, who seemed to be enjoying the bridal tour. Thaddeus became social once more, but with less drink and certainly less women.
He felt as if the passage of time had allowed him a second wind. His heart still ached for Abigail, but he found things more manageable. He received quite a few marriage announcements in his correspondence. Thaddeus was not always so compelled to attend weddings, yet there were some to which he was obligated. They would prove to be bothersome, yet necessary. It was the season of all manner of events and occasions, whether wedding or simple soiree.
Thaddeus had become less inclined to spend time in town. He only goes when he absolutely has to. On one such trip, he is given a series of documents having to do with some of his father’s more shadowy dealings. He had up until that point avoided them, knowing that they would come with complications. Moreover, Thaddeus preferred to operate in the area under the bliss of ignorance. Once he became involved he would be tasked with the decision of whether or not to continue in those dealings or discontinue them in accordance with his conscience.
The former Duke of Geiser was prone to various levels of deception and manipulation in order to acquire transferable goods. Land was off limits outside of the family line, but the Wellingtons had more than enough land holdings. With the advent of steam engines and other such commodities, the elder Wellington had gone to great lengths to insure that he and the family would be at the forefront of industry. Some of these acts included leading unsuspecting members of lower rank to invest in bad business. Quite a few had been bankrupted thanks to these schemes.
It was common knowledge about the House of Lords, but as his father was such a high ranking member he was never in danger of any criminal prosecution for his acts. On the other hand, plenty of other gentlemen of lower nobility had paid the price.
Thaddeus began to go through some of the documents and could hardly believe the agreements in which his father had been able to lure gentlemen. Many of the names on the signatures were familiar to Thaddeus. He was either familiar with the gentleman in particular or the family in which he belonged.
One morning as Thaddeus wearily went combed through the papers, he came across a name that brought him pause. He read over the name Seymour and checked to see if it were some relation of Evie. Not only was it a relation of hers, but it was her own father. The document was signed “The Right Honourable Lord Roger Seymour”. Thaddeus knew that was the father of Evie. He had thought perhap
s he had been a member of the gentry or minor nobility, but it appeared he had been a Baron.
Thaddeus found it hard to believe a Baron should have lost his title. It was his understanding that Mr. Seymour had lost his peerage on some charge of smuggling and attacking a member of higher nobility. While those were serious charges, Thaddeus believed such a position could have been negotiated. It was not exactly treason and would require an especially unpopular member of parliament to have been thus stripped of title and position. He decided to look into it further.
He received a dinner invitation from his cousin Lord Benedict Fitzgerald. Lord Fitzgerald was an elder with quite a bit of political power in both the House of Lords and Parliament. Thaddeus had always felt the next best thing to having personal political ambitions was remaining in good relation to Lord Fitzgerald. Lord Fitzgerald was a family member that Thaddeus did not mind.
Lord Fitzgerald was an elite gentleman, yet as he aged he became more of jovial gent. He was well-traveled and had many lively and vivid stories about the royalty and other people he had met in his travels. He was also a passionate patron of the arts who often invited artists to his home, which added another element of entertainment to his parties.
The Roguish Ways of a Hopeless Duke Page 19