The Countess

by Lisa Doughty

  Roddy pointed out that with the connections she made, thanks mostly to the Old Codger’s Club, were the only thing of value that remained from her marriage. They could make a lucrative living by making matches amongst the elite. Emelia could train them as she had her, he could fashion them to catch the suitor’s eye, and she could use her connections to make the match. At first, she hesitated, but then realized it was no different than what the Mother Superior and every father in England had done, so she decided, why not?

  Soon mothers and fathers alike were flocking to her for help. She quickly realized it was just a matter of getting people acquainted. This did present a challenge, in light of society’s rules and protocols which were designed to keep couples apart.

  Out of necessity, she started having social mixers at Middleton, which eventually turned into week-long gatherings. Her success rate exploded thereafter, and she became one of the best matchmakers of all time. Now people clambered for her services and were willing to pay the price for it. Cordelia, the tenth Countess of Middleton Park, became exclusive, her clientele the best of English society and abroad.

  She would have never been able to survive these past two years without Roddy. Without his input and friendship, she would have crumbled long ago. He was her best friend and the only family she had left in the world. Besides Emelia, that is, who had yet to come out of her shell after their ordeal with the Earl. Cordelia knew she still harbored guilt for her part in her brother’s death. Cordelia did not know how to help Emelia get past these feelings. She hoped that time would heal her. The Middleton scandal had faded, and the Earl was not missed. She would not be surprised if there were others who had celebrated his passing. Nobody mentioned him, ever. It was as if she were born the Countess of Middleton Park.

  “You must come back down, lovey. We have a new client coming, and Lord Tilman is getting frustrated at Lady’s Simpson's inattention,” he informed her.

  “Tilman’s match is Lady Verness. Lady Simpson needs a stronger, bolder gentleman to catch her eye.”

  “You would know. If I have said it once, I’ve said it a million times, this talent you have for matching people is uncanny.” He held his hands out to her. “Now up and let me look at you.” She rose for inspection. “Perfect, infinitely perfect!”

  “You made me so.”

  “There is only so much I can do. You can adorn a dog with diamonds, but it will still be a dog, I dare say.” Cordelia giggled. Leave it to Roddy to make her laugh.

  “You know, we do not have to do this anymore. We no longer need the money,” Cordelia pointed out as they started back to the house.

  “You cannot mean to quit now! Things are just getting good! Besides, you could not possibly deprive society of your services, it would be tragic,” he exclaimed flamboyantly. “And dull, I dare say.”

  “Do you not get tired of this endless impersonal interaction for profit? Do you not search for something more fulfilling?” she asked, feeling a little melancholy.

  “I’m always searching for something fulfilling, lovey!” he teased, and his eyebrows bounced as he laughed at his joke. Cordelia rolled her eyes.

  “Roddy!”

  “Shhh, Rodrigo if you please! We approach the house. Time to work your magic, lovey.”

  Chapter 12

  All eyes turned to her as she entered the courtyard. Good lord, Roddy had been right. Things had gone awry. More than half the gentlemen had drifted to one side as the ladies had drifted to the other, giggling amongst themselves. Only a few couples were dancing or conversing. The benches sprinkled about the courtyard, which specifically designed to give privacy to those who wished it, were mostly empty. She sighed and planted a demure smile on her face. Time to shake things up a bit.

  “Request a waltz, please Rodrigo, a long one.”

  Roddy bowed, headed toward the orchestra, as she walked straight up to the group of gentlemen.

  “Lost our nerve so easily gentlemen?” she chastised gently with a heart-stopping smile. They bowed. “It’s hardly a mixer if one doesn’t mix.”

  “We were discussing just that, my lady, and well…they…the ladies that is…they hardly seem, ah, approachable.” Lord Tilman spoke for the group.

  “Ah, and what is it you are expecting exactly, Lord Tilman? A wink and a wave, perhaps?” They looked at each other as if they wished it could be so. “Hardly! They are not pub wenches after all! They are proper ladies of the Ton, trained by the best to act with the utmost decorum. You must read them on their level. Why look…” She slowly slid her hand around Lord Tilman’s arm as if it were an intimate caress. She had found this to be the best method to get a gentleman’s attention. “Isn’t that Lady Verness peeking at you from behind her fan?” Cordelia felt him stiffen. She whispered in his ear. “If that is not a wink and a wave by a lady’s standard, I do not know what is.”

  He leaned closer, bumping the rim of her wide-brimmed hat. Cordelia loved her hats. They forced everyone to keep a respectable distance. They had become a security blanket of sorts. All of polite society knew not to touch a lady’s hat. Tilman pulled back a tad before he spoke.

  “What should I do?” he asked quietly.

  “Ask her to dance the waltz, the lovers dance, then follow your instincts afterward. Perhaps a glass of punch, a stroll around the courtyard? Or invite her to sit on a bench if you are so inclined,” she added suggestively. When his eyes snapped to hers, she looked at him from under her lashes and bit the side of her lip seductively so he would get her meaning. His mouth dropped open slightly as she let her lip slide slowly between her teeth and back to a seductive smile. “Shall I introduce you so that you may set an example for the rest of the gentlemen?” He continued to watch her mouth as she spoke, mesmerized. “Lord Tilman?” She squeezed his arm gently.

  “Oh, yes,” he whispered, then cleared his throat. “Yes, of course.”

  She held back a chuckle, then turned her head, so her hat obstructed his view. Another use for one’s hat, if you knew how to execute it correctly. It could either be a powerful weapon of seduction, leaving them wishing for another look, or, if she turned quickly, an abrupt end to an unwanted conversation. She had the art of using her hat down to a science. She was able to wield it better than the most experienced ladies could use their fans. She preferred hats, as they were much subtler, and more fashionable by far.

  Now that she had Lord Tilman thinking of kissing, it was time to pass him to Lady Verness, her pick for the gentleman. They would suit each other nicely if they would but talk to each other. Besides, Lady Verness’ dowry was seventy-five thousand pounds, and Tilman’s father owned a wool factory with the sheep to supply it. She wanted to populate the twenty-five acres she had just acquired from the match with a herd of her own. The seven-hundred-and-fifty-pound fee from Lady Verness would do nicely to build a crofter’s cabin for a shepherd and his family. Lord Tilman’s father would hardly miss a hundred or so of his sheep for making the match.

  “Lady Verness, have you made the acquaintance of Lord Tilman?” Cordelia asked, as she approached the wide-eyed group of young ladies. She nodded slightly at Lady Verness and slipped her hand from Lord Tillman’s arm.

  “Pleasure to be sure.” Lady Verness dipped into a curtsy and gave him a demure smile just as Emelia had taught her. Cordelia excused herself.

  Several of the younger gentlemen braved crossing the room to mingle with the ladies, following Lord Tilman’s lead. It only takes one, and the rest follow, she thought.

  The younger set took a lot more manipulation than the more mature, confident gentlemen. Widowers were the easiest, having had experience dealing with a lady on a daily basis. For the most part, they were lonely, and knew exactly what they wanted in a match. It was simple to put them in the company of a lady that matched their needs, and they usually took over from there. Cordelia loved to watch as new love budded. No matter the age of its participants, love was young when it was new. The look on their faces when there was a mutual attraction alway
s pulled at her heart.

  “Lady Cromwell, your prospective clients are approaching,” Rupert informed her.

  “Thank you, Rupert. I think its time to move this soiree outside for lawn games. Nobody is enjoying the dancing. Can we serve tea on the lawn?”

  “Certainly, my lady.”

  “Show the new clients outside as well. I will greet them there.”

  Chapter 13

  “They’re here! Rupert is getting them settled,” Roddy informed her with giddy excitement. This made Cordelia smile as he took her hand with a flourish to escort her to the lawn.

  “Who?” Cordelia asked, surprised and confused at Roddy’s reaction since he was never involved with the initial interview of clients. There must be a reason he was this excited.

  “Our prospective clients, they have arrived,” he repeated.

  “Rodrigo…” she said, sardonically. “I know you too well, tell me…what?”

  “Wait until you see them, Cordi! I happened upon them arriving in the foyer. Gorgeous, simply gorgeous, both of them. Lord, please, let him prefer me over you!” He put his hands together in prayer.

  “Good lord! I haven’t seen you like this since. . .what was his name?”

  “Jackson?”

  “No…”

  “Tomas?”

  “No…it started with an S…”

  “Samuel?”

  She looked at him sideways and gave him a sarcastic smile.

  “Alright fine, I get your point. I may be a tad excitable, but I am not overreacting this time, you wait and see! Three shillings you are rendered speechless by this one.”

  “When’s the last time you saw me speechless, Rodrigo?” she pronounced his name sarcastically.

  “Well…” He thought for a moment. “Alright, never, but I still wish to wager this time you will be!”

  “Done. Easiest three shillings I ever made!”

  “We will see.”

  “Tell me…”

  “According to Rupert, he’s a Marquess, never married, here for his sister. They made their fortune in soap. Body soap, kitchen soap, as well as its industrial uses. Popular here and across Europe, and very lucrative from what I hear. She has had many offers but has turned them all down because she seeks a love match. That is why she is here, and to see me, of course,” he added confidently. “Her dowry amount will remain undisclosed until the brother approves your services. That’s why he is here.”

  “Of course! Love and a new wardrobe by Rodrigo. What could be better?” she teased. “I remember her now, Lady Drayson. I sent my barrister to talk to her. Her appointment is today, how could have I forgotten?” she said more to herself than Roddy, who was not listening anyway. Roddy gave her a poignant look. “I guess if he desires an appointment with Rodrigo, all would be right with the world, would it not?” she teased again.

  “Indeed!” he replied, and they laughed.

  She was pleased to see that her guests were quickly settling into the various lawn games. She realized that they were a younger set and needed more stimulation than a waltz. A large group of gentlemen organized teams for cricket. Perfect. Now they would shed their jackets and show off their prowess.

  As they slowly made their way to the field, Cordelia enticed the younger ladies to come along. She subtly started placing bets on the gentlemen, and the ladies enthusiastically joined in. The mood instantly turned cheerful as everyone made themselves comfortable. When the musicians started playing lively music, it completed the happy atmosphere. Moving the party to the lawn had certainly been the right decision.

  “Brace yourself, here they come. Remember our wager,” Roddy whispered in her ear.

  “I remember very well. You might as well pay me now, and save yourself the trouble later,” she taunted, holding out her hand expectantly.

  Roddy had an eye for handsome men, and she was sure this gentleman would be no different. Her saving grace was that she was not attracted to the aristocratic dandies that were the mainstay of the Ton. They did nothing for her, and she found them easy to resist. She and her trusty hat had managed to repel all manner of pompous asses, who attempted to dazzle her with their flashy waistcoats and high heeled shoes. She had yet to meet a gentleman that made her heart stop and render her speechless. Today was bound to be no exception, and that was fine with her. She would never marry again. The last thing she wanted were the confines of marriage and the obligations in the bedroom. Never again! The Earl had seen to that. No man would touch her if she had anything to do with it, no matter how handsome he might be.

  “Lady Cromwell, Lord Roth, and Lady Drayson.” The butler announced. Roddy stepped forward immediately.

  “May I be the first to welcome you, my lord, my lady. I am Rodrigo,” He announced with a flamboyant bow. “And this is Lady Cromwell.”

  Cordelia peeked at the couple from behind the brim of her hat. The lady was lovely indeed, with raven hair and bright green eyes. Lady Drayson was smiling in anticipation, eager to meet her. Cordelia could not see the gentleman’s face. His broad chest and tall stature obscured her view. In a practiced motion, she kept her eyes downcast, watching where she stepped, adjusting her skirt as she turned, and looked at him through her lashes first. Good Lord, Roddy might be right about this one. First, she saw his Hessian boots. No high heels for this one. His black trousers ended inside his boots at the knee, and his muscular thighs strained the material above them. His jacket tails brushed his calves. This gentleman was no dandy, at least not in fashion. When she raised her eyes, they immediately locked with his. Handsome did not describe this man. For the first time her in her life, her heart skipped a beat. He was the male version of his lovely sister, but, where she was soft and feminine, he was rugged and masculine. His green eyes stared in hers with such intensity, it rattled her.

  She forced herself to look at his sister and curtsied, bowing her head slightly so the rim of her hat hid her face. She took a shallow breath to compose herself. Roddy was looking at the Marquess longingly. He hadn’t noticed her reaction to the man, thank the Lord! If he had, she would have never lived it down! When she rose, she addressed Lady Drayson directly and did not look at either of the men. Her hat partially obstructed their view, which gave her confidence to speak.

  “Lady Drayson, welcome to Middleton Park.”

  “Thank you, Lady Cromwell. I have been looking forward to this pleasure for a long time.” Lady Drayson curtsied. “May I present my brother Lord Rhys Drayson, the Marquess of Roth.”

  Cordelia smiled demurely and kept her eyes downcast as she curtsied but looked at him as she rose. She had better control of herself this time. She had the same reaction to him, Lord above, this man rattled her nerves. She tried not to stare, although she wanted to. Everything about this man radiated masculinity. His long black hair curled around his collar and forehead. His angular features and strong chin gave him his rugged appearance. But it was his intense green eyes that made her feel naked under his gaze. A thousand needles pricked her skin as he studied her. His eyes drifted to her lips when she spoke.

  “My lord, welcome. Thank you for making the trip from London to escort your sister to Middleton Park. It must have been a major inconvenience.”

  He stared at her for what seemed like an eternity without answering, his face expressionless. This man was disconcerting. He needed to leave. Luckily, she had already decided not to take Lady Drayson on as a client. Cordelia prayed that once she turned them down in person that they would return to London directly.

  “Not at all,” he finally answered. His baritone voice matched his appearance. Cordelia suppressed a shiver as vibrations rolled down her spine. It would be best to get them on their way quickly. As fast as possible!

  “Shall we retire to my office and discuss what you require of me?”

  “That would be wonderful, wouldn’t it Rhys?” Lady Drayson bumped her brother with her elbow, since he was still glaring at her.

  “Of course,” he said, with a wave and a bow. “Lead
the way.”

  “Will Rodrigo be joining us?” Lady Drayson asked hopefully. Cordelia had not noticed that Roddy had excused himself.

  “If we conclude our business today, you can meet with him first thing tomorrow,” she replied, not willing to dash the lady’s excitement in front of her guests or her brother until they were alone. Let her have a meeting with Roddy. He seemed eager enough to have her as a client. Then she could send them on their way, satisfied. “You are behind the rest of the guests. They have been here for a few days and are well acquainted with each other already. And, If Rodrigo wishes to change your look, there is not much time for him to do it before the ball.” She chuckled, to take the worry out of her statement, but further planted the seed for refusal. Cordelia threaded her arm through Lady Drayson’s, and started toward the house, giving Lord Drayson no choice but to fall in step behind them.

  Chapter 14

  Cordelia could swear she felt the heat of the man’s stare on her back as she chatted with his sister. Nervously, she made all manner of small talk as they made their way back to the house. Lady Drayson conversed easily about their trip from town and her expectation of the weather in the coming days. They entered through the back doors, and she steered them down the hall to her study. Two large double doors flanked the opulent room. Once inside, the waiting footmen closed the doors behind them. She could not wait to put her sizable desk between herself and the Marquess. Cordelia paused next to two wingback chairs facing the desk, withdrew her arm from Lady Drayson’s, and walked to the other side.

  “Please make yourself comfortable. I am robbing you of tea time, shall I call for some?” She waved a wingback chair, hoping he would sit. His expression had turned into a scowl, making her even more nervous than before. Had she done something to offend him?