A sense of unease descended on him. She’d told him she did not want to wed, but she hadn’t yet met the gentlemen seeking wives on the marriage mart. He must make sure she chose wisely. Rakehells abounded, and she was an innocent.
Andrew rose. “Come. Let’s repair to the billiard room so I can trounce you.”
“You think you can win? Hah!”
“I’ve improved. Emily has practiced with me.”
“Then lead me to it.”
Chapter 15
A carriage drawn by two matched horses stopped in front of the house. Jane peered around the trunk of a topiary tree. A liveried groom opened the door, let down steps, and held out his arm to a fashionably-dressed woman.
Could this be her mother? Jane’s breath caught, and she willed herself to breathe normally while she spied on the proceedings from a safe distance. A second woman with an infant in her arms exited the conveyance, followed by a third who carried a toddler. Ralston had said nothing about a child being in her mother’s care. The two women following the lady were clearly servants—a maid and perhaps the children’s nurse.
The entourage entered the house. Jane was too far away to see who greeted them. Deflated, she resumed her task of picking flowers for a bouquet in the entry hall. She liked spending mornings in the garden and by now knew the names of all the plants, thanks to the head gardener. She missed Ralston. At least today the morning was fresh and the sky a bright blue with nary a cloud in sight.
The jingling of a horse’s harness alerted her once again. Setting her basket on the ground, Jane hid behind the yew bush. This time she recognized the visitors. Madame Lucille and her assistant from the village alighted and directed a footman to the interior of the large coach. He entered and emerged with several large parcels, followed by Madame’s assistant carrying smaller ones.
Good Lord. Are those all for me?
She turned back in time to see Mary running toward her. “Milady, you’re wanted inside. The rest of your new wardrobe has arrived.”
Jane nodded, not totally unaffected by the news. She couldn’t remember the last time she had new gowns, and never one suitable for a ball.
“Who is the other lady who arrived before the modiste?”
“Why that’s Lady Elizabeth, Lord Ralston’s sister.”
Of course, it couldn’t be dearest Mama, could it?
No, I shall not be sad. I do not care if I ever see the creature.
“Shall I use the backstairs and change clothes? I would not want to embarrass Lady Amelia as she’s been so kind and I do look a fright.”
Mary grinned. “I believe that was Lady Amelia’s intention.”
“Lead the way.”
They crept up the servants’ stairs and tiptoed to her bedroom. Not knowing whether the guest would remain overnight, they didn’t want to meet her until Jane washed and changed. Ralston’s sister might be housed in the chamber next to hers. There weren’t that many guest rooms.
Her bed was strewn with boxes—some open, others still tied with string. She and Mary retreated into the dressing room where they stopped to gawk at the display. Beautiful clothes in various fabrics were draped across a small table. One ball gown was multiple shades of blue shot with silver. Another was pink and yet another, ivory. Jane fingered a smart-looking riding habit in green, the color of leaves in spring. Gold embellishments decorated the spencer, the skirt, and a jaunty bonnet with ribbons in colors that exactly matched.
She sat in the only chair in the room and shook her head. “What will I do with so many gowns? I cannot possibly wear all these. ’Tis wasteful.”
“You’ll wear these, and more, once you’ve come out. Ladies do not wear the same thing twice in some circles. After serving you, milady, I suspect you may have a different notion, but I will be sure to select your gowns, so you won’t be criticized.”
Jane frowned. “One can be chastised for wearing the same gown twice? That’s absurd.”
“It’s the way of the ton, milady.” She rummaged through the pile, choosing a day gown of fine muslin, the color of daffodils that grew in the garden. “Here now. After you wash, I’ll help you into this dress. It should be perfect to meet Lady Elizabeth.”
Mary led her to the pitcher and ewer. The water was cold, but Jane didn’t mind it. She’d sometimes taken a dip in the stream that ran behind their house in Baltimore. Totally private, the stream was only a few feet deep.
When she finished, Mary helped her into the new gown. Holding the glass, she couldn’t believe how pretty it was with a sash in a deeper yellow that tied under the breasts. White flowers with yellow centers were embroidered on the hem and the cap sleeves.
“I feel like a princess.” The analogy made her think of the first time she’d seen Ralston when looking at him made her think of the handsome prince of her childhood fairy tales. The nickname remained in her mind. A light, happy feeling tickled her belly. When was he returning? Today or maybe tomorrow, according to Lady Amelia.
“Are you ready?” Mary stuck a few extra pins into the braids crossed at the top of her head.
“I am.”
“You look lovely, milady.”
The compliment warmed her, and that was a surprise. Not being one to care much about her appearance in the past, Jane wanted to smile as broadly as possible, to let her maid know she greatly appreciated her support.
So my guardian’s sister is here. I wonder if she came to visit him or if she’s here to see me.
Jane tried to go over all the rules she’d learned in her mind about how to meet someone new, whether she should curtsy or extend her hand, and a myriad of other bits of nonsense important to Lady Amelia. The woman had been a good teacher, and Jane didn’t want to disappoint her.
Taking a deep breath and smoothing her skirt, she opened the door and strolled into the drawing room.
“There you are, my dear. Come in. I want you to meet my niece, Lady Elizabeth.”
The woman rose and turned to her, a smile on her face that seemed to falter before turning into a frown. She turned away and raised her eyebrows. “This is Jocelyn’s twin? I wouldn’t have believed it.”
Jane stopped, not knowing if she should advance or retreat. Lady Elizabeth turned back and stared at her with a critical eye. Jane made a slight curtsy. “I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”
“Come here and turn around slowly.” Lady Elizabeth remained standing as Jane advanced, obeying the command although she wasn’t sure why. “Be seated.”
She glanced at Lady Amelia who seemed chagrined over her niece’s tone. The older woman patted the space next to her on the settee. “Is that one of your new gowns?”
“It is, Lady Amelia.”
“The modiste did well.”
“Thank you.” She turned toward the visitor who sat shaking her head.
“This won’t do at all, Aunt. The hair is dreadful, and I’m not sure yellow is a good color for her. Jocelyn has never worn yellow. And that accent! Ugh. It hurts my ears.”
Jane tried to nod and smile as she’d been taught, but the words stung. All of her earlier elation faded away, and she was once again the dowd from America, to be hidden away because she wasn’t fit for company. She swallowed a lump in her throat and willed herself to sit still and say nothing.
Lady Elizabeth must have sensed her discomfort. Her gaze softened, and her shoulders slumped. “I did not mean to be unkind. It’s just that I am in shock, since I am well-acquainted with your twin. Please forgive my outburst.”
“Of course.” All of her energy seemed to leave her. She clasped her fingers in her lap and studied them. Was that dirt under her thumbnail? At home she wouldn’t have given it a thought.
She’d done as she was told because she was literally at the mercy of these people—strangers mostly, thrust into her life when Pa
pa died with all of his secrets. How could he do this to her? They’d been as close as a father and daughter could be. Was she not to be trusted with his past?
Jane realized now she’d led a reclusive life. Her skills were those needed on a farm—one run without slaves. Her gardening was much admired, and she knew how to dispatch a chicken and milk a cow. Her cooking was akin to Maddie’s, and she could sew a fine seam. She’d never had a steady beau, most likely because she didn’t get out much. She always assumed if she married it would be to a lawyer like Papa, or perhaps the son of one of their neighbors.
Here I must stay out of the kitchen, let others dress me, follow stupid rules, and drink abominable tea.
The conversation between Lady Amelia and her guest continued. Jane tuned it out until her name was mentioned.
As if I am not even here.
“I think it’s the hair. If we styled it properly, she’d have Jocelyn’s look.”
“I believe you’re right.”
Lady Elizabeth rose and undid the pins holding Jane’s braids. “Too long, especially at the sides. I believe my maid could style it with my direction.”
Jane wiggled away out of reach and stood back, her hands on her hips. “Enough. I am my own person. Stop trying to make me into—into—her!”
She ran out of the room and took the stairs two at a time. After flinging open her door, she slammed it shut and locked it.
She wrenched her arms out of the dress and tugged it off without undoing the buttons. She’d prided herself on her self-sufficiency. Papa had lauded her for being capable in so many areas. Her account books were pristine with numbers in neat columns, easy for Papa to review. Her formal education was as good as that given to any male.
She threw herself on her bed in her corset and shift and stared at the ceiling. Why had she been sent to this dreadful place to a mother who probably resented her, if her friend Lady Elizabeth was any indication? She choked back her sobs and pounded her pillow.
I shall run away. Apply for employment in a teahouse as a cook. Or perhaps become a milkmaid or a scullery maid. Anything, but this.
A child cried somewhere in the house, disturbing the quiet. The faint knock on her door went unanswered.
“Milady. Are you all right? Your door is locked.”
“Go away.”
“Are you ill? Can I be of service?”
“I’m in my shift, lying down with a headache.” She modulated her voice. The maid was trying to be helpful. “Please come back in an hour. I’m sure I’ll feel better.”
“Very well.”
I am not a child. I do not need to be coddled.
Mothers are supposed to coddle. Where is mine?
Chapter 16
Arriving back a day early, Ralston gave his horse to the groom, brushed a speck of dirt off his coat, and strode into the house. He’d recognized the carriage in the stableyard and was curious as to why his sister had decided to make an appearance.
He found her in the family parlor, stitching something in a frame, with a toddler at her feet. “When did you arrive?” He hoisted his giggling nephew into the air and seated him securely on his lap after he sat down.
“Three days ago. How bad was the damage to the steward’s cottage?”
“The roof is gone, but the walls are stone. He’s moved into the dower house for now. Perhaps I’ll have him remain there since Mama passed years ago and I’m unlikely to need it.” A tug unraveled part of his cravat at the hands of his nephew. The child reached for the stick pin, and Ralston hastily set him back on the carpet. He handed him a wooden soldier, which promptly went into the boy’s mouth.
Lady Elizabeth set aside her frame and reached out to the child. “Come to Mama, Henry.” He toddled toward her, and she lifted him onto her lap.
“Did you bring the entire family?”
“No, just Henry and the baby. The others are at home with their nannies.”
“Did you come out of curiosity, or did you have news? Is Katherine finally going to make an appearance?”
“Katherine wants you to bring the girl to town. She cannot come herself because she has too much to do to prepare for the ball.”
“I’m to take her to Siltsbury House?”
“No. She must remain with you until after the birthday ball. She expects you to take Jane to your townhouse and to bring Aunt Amelia as a chaperone. As guardian, you’ll be expected to attend the ball. A few days after, Lady Siltsbury will announce that she has been reunited with Jane, who was kidnapped by her father decades ago.”
Ralston jumped to his feet. “No. I won’t have it. The girl can remain here. Why can’t your friend Katherine tell the truth? She gave up one of her children in order to remain in England. The woman had an indulgent husband who chose a life she didn’t want, and they worked out a compromise. What’s wrong with that?”
Elizabeth sighed. “Katherine is weak, brother. She fears her reputation—and Jocelyn’s—will be soiled by the truth.”
“So she thinks to make Lord Siltsbury a villain when he did her the utmost kindness? I would have dragged her kicking and screaming and forced her onto the ship bound for America, and no court of law would have interfered.”
Lady Elizabeth scoffed, “You would not have!”
“You’re right. I probably would have contrived a similar arrangement. Which is why I shall never marry. Life is too damn complicated when women are involved. You’ve obviously met Jane. What do you think of her?”
She sighed as the child on her lap tossed the toy and fingered her brooch. “We got off to a bad start. I said some things without thinking first, and I’m afraid I hurt her feelings.”
“I am disappointed in you, Elizabeth. You’re raising enough children to know how fragile they sometimes are. Although Jane is not a child, she lost her father merely months ago, and her mother has all but forgotten her. At least that is how Jane will see it.”
“I’m not a cruel person, Gilbert, but I arrived expecting to see a replica of Jocelyn, and instead I get a flawed facsimile. ’Twas a shock. Her body shape is the same, and upon close inspection, her face is identical. The hair, the accent, the attitude are quite disappointing. I daresay she could be a cousin, maybe a younger sister. Not a twin.”
He folded his arms. “And why is that a problem? She is a human being, Elizabeth, not a porcelain doll. She’s been raised in a different place than girls here, by a father who taught her skills she’d need in America. On one hand, she has the education of a well-bred young man. On the other hand, she’d make an excellent wife for a modern-thinking man with a large estate or even a small one. It was ludicrous for Lady Siltsbury to try and mold her into a ton debutante. Leave the girl be. Let her be an original.”
“She’ll never marry if she doesn’t conform.”
“Oh, she’ll marry if she has a mind to. With her fortune and a prosperous seaside property, I’d say her prospects are quite good.”
“But Ralston—only a fortune hunter would have her as she is.”
“Not a rogue. Not while I am her guardian. If she isn’t betrothed by the time she reaches her majority, she can choose her own husband.”
And she’ll choose wisely because I shall give her the tools with which to measure worth.
“I want you to know I apologized to the girl for being waspish and judgmental. I believe she’s forgiven me. In fact, she’s been an enormous help with Henry. I do believe she’ll make a wonderful mother someday.”
“I am relieved. There’s nothing worse than to have females in the same household at each other’s throats. Where is she?”
“I believe she is trying on ball gowns. Madame Lucille arrived the same day I did, and after I insulted Jane’s appearance, she refused to try on anything else. Aunt Amelia was quite cross with me, as she should be. I made amends yesterda
y, and Jane even allowed my maid to style her hair. This afternoon she consented to try on the gowns to make sure they are a proper fit.”
“Gilbert? I didn’t know you had arrived.” Aunt sashayed into the room and gave him a quick hug. “My dear, I daresay you have not had time for ablutions, have you?”
“Do I smell of horse? I do beg your pardon. I’ll go at once to my chamber.”
“No. Stay. Jane is coming.” She turned to Elizabeth. “You must see this gown. It is the height of fashion if it is not overbold for a young girl.”
A swishing sound indicated Jane was about to make her entrance. Ralston took a swallow of his freshly poured drink, then choked as his breath caught in his throat.
A vision in violet gauze paused in the doorway. He swallowed twice as she slowly advanced into the room, a wide smile on her face. He couldn’t move or look away. The woman before him had dark curls framing her face and a high chignon laced with ribbons. Her corseted breasts pushed over the low neckline and her hands and arms were encased in matching gloves.
This could have been Jocelyn standing in front of him instead of the hoyden from America. Jane gave herself away with a saucy tilt of her head and the mischief in her blue eyes. “Will I do?”
Lady Elizabeth put the toddler on her hip and moved around Jane, reaching out with her free hand to straighten a fold. “Oh, my dear, you are lovely. And even if you do not want to hear it, you now look exactly like your sister.”
Jane struck a pose. “When did you arrive, milord? Do you like the gown, Ralston? You do not think it immodest, do you?”
“I-I think you might be besieged by admiring gentlemen if you wear that dress in public.”
She laughed, and her eyes twinkled.
“Isn’t that what you told me you wished for me? To find a husband so your duties on my behalf would end and you could go back to your life?”
They were going to have that talk about rakehells, very soon. The need had now increased tenfold.
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