“I take it things between you and your fiancée are not well,” Gideon said the next morning as Camren prepared to leave to ride and clear his head.
Camren shook his head. “She was quite cross with me and left without letting me know. You had already disappeared. I won’t ask where. So, I came back here as soon as I was aware Evangeline and her parents had left to avoid any questions.”
“It was quite an event-filled night,” Gideon said with a grin. “I was hiding in the carriage for a while to get away from overly exuberant mothers attempting to toss daughters practically into my lap.” He chuckled. “I asked Daniel to bring me back and return for you. Didn’t he tell you?”
“No. But then again, I was in a dark mood and wasn’t in the mood to talk.”
Moments later, he rode toward Hyde Park. Evangeline’s cousin had asked that he meet her to choose a bride gift, and although he wondered why, it was too late to cancel. He’d excuse himself, not agreeing to spend more than a minute with the woman, as it was obvious she plotted and planned constantly to ensure he and Evangeline’s marriage be called off.
Once at the appointed place, he waited for her to arrive.
Across the street, he noticed a bookstore and considered browsing. But it was almost the time he’d agreed to meet with Prudence, so he didn’t dare walk away.
“Dear Camren, thank you so much for meeting me. I have an idea for the perfect gift for my cousin.” Prudence hesitated and frowned. “Oh, dear, my shoe has become unlaced. Would you be a dear and assist me.”
Camren lowered to one knee and motioned for her to put her foot on his other leg and tied the laces. It was a quick task.
“Thank you so much,” she cooed in a much too familiar manner. He noted she used his first name, and considered that he and Evangeline had not gotten to that point. “Where do you propose I procure this gift?” He pointed to what looked to be a jewelry shop. It was then he noticed Evangeline and her friend, Rose, walking away from the bookstore. Rose turned and glared at them, then continued on. Evangeline’s limp was noticeable as she hurried away with her friend.
When he looked to Prudence, the woman peered into the window of the store they’d been standing in front of. “This little gift shop has some beautiful figurines. She does love cats.”
He gave her a droll look. “I would rather choose something else. Thank you for your help.” When he took a step away, she nodded with enthusiasm. “Oh, of course. I will go inside and peruse the items. It was nice seeing you, Camren.” She and her maid went into the store.
It was best that he catch up with Evangeline. He needed to speak to her and clear things up. Walking away from her the night before had been rude and if he was to marry the woman, it was time they sat down and spoke about everything. He was not used to the way things were done in London society. Why was Evangeline out at a bookstore? Shouldn’t she be planning their wedding? Lost in thought, he went to find his horse.
By the time he arrived at the area where Evangeline had gone, both she and Rose were nowhere to be found. Considering she must have gone home, he was about to head in that direction when he noticed the man who’d been on the balcony with Evangeline.
Avery Hamilton was a dandy, dressed in pastel colors in shades that rivaled a little girl’s dress. He walked down the sidewalk with a cane under his arm. Several times, he stopped and tipped his hat at people stopping to make small talk.
Just then, Prudence walked out of the gift shop, her maid’s hands filled with packages. How had the woman managed to shop for so much so quickly?
Avery neared and spoke to Prudence. At one point, both burst out in laughter, and she placed a hand on his forearm.
Together, with the maid struggling to keep the packages from falling, they headed toward the park.
He had to speak to Evangeline. Other than a business meeting, his day was clear. First, he’d clear his head and then call on her that evening.
“This is the most horrible thing your cousin has done up to this point.” Her mother tapped a fan on her open palm, her brows lowered in anger. The entire ride to the Monroe estate she’d not stopped talking and Evangeline was glad to see her mother was on her side. In a way, she felt bad for Prudence, as one thing her mother rarely did was raise her voice.
“I must call off the wedding,” Evangeline said. “It is for the best that Camren and I do not marry. You must agree, Mother.”
Her mother gave her a stern look. “We will postpone it for another few days if we must. There is no rush, but you must marry him. He will lose his home here in London if you do not. Mrs. Dove-Lyon was clear on that.”
“Can’t he just buy it back?”
“It would go into her property holdings and she is not fond of anyone that does not follow through.”
Evangeline certainly didn’t want Camren to lose his London home but, at the same time, surely he could purchase another. He was wealthy by all accounts. “He lives in Scotland. Why not lease when traveling here?”
“From what I understood, his father purchased the property for the family. It has more than monetary value.” Her mother patted Evangeline’s hand. “Everything will be fine. Once we speak to your cousin and aunt, we shall proceed with plans for a wedding.”
Evangeline looked up to the blue sky. It was an unseasonably warm day and she held up a parasol to block the sun. “This entire thing has been a fiasco since the very start.”
At the Monroe mansion, Evangeline and her mother were swiftly guided to a sitting room. Her aunt rushed in with an expression of concern. “Did something happen? I did not expect you today. Should you not be planning the wedding?”
Her mother lowered to sit. On her face was a pleased smile. “There is nothing particularly wrong. However, I must speak to Prudence immediately.”
“Of course.” Lady Monroe turned to a maid. “Let Miss Prudence know we have company.”
Tea was brought and served, the entire time her aunt looking between Evangeline and her mother. “Are you well, Evangeline?”
“Yes, thank you, Aunt.”
“Has your dress been delivered?”
“Yes, it has.”
“Oh, I bet it’s lovely.”
Her mother replied this time. “She will look beautiful in it.”
Evangeline wanted to roll her eyes. The dress was delivered, but she’d refused to try it on in hopes the wedding would be cancelled and she could have it returned.
Prudence entered, her eyes widening upon seeing who was there. Obviously, the maid had not informed her. “Good afternoon, Aunt… Genie.” Her eyes darted to her mother.
“This is a… surprise.” She moved to a chair furthest from them and sat. “Tea,” she said to a maid who came and served.
“What is this about? You have me on pins and needles,” her aunt asked.
Evangeline’s mother straightened. “It seems Prudence has gone out of her way to cause problems for Genie. First, she told Avery Hamilton that Evangeline wished to speak to him at the ball. He followed her out to the balcony and Camren saw them.” She held her hand up when Prudence attempted to interrupt.
“I am not finished.” She gave her niece a sharp look. “What were you doing with Camren Maclean in town today? Why did you meet with him across the street from the bookstore after you asked the shopkeeper for the times Evangeline would be there?”
Prudence’s face turned an alarming shade of red, her eyes darting from face to face. “I wanted to help him purchase a wedding gift for Genie.”
“You met your cousin’s fiancé alone?” Lady Monroe placed a hand over her chest and leaned forward. “Why would you do that?”
“I – I didn’t mean to cause trouble.” Prudence’s bottom lip trembled, but her eyes remained dry.
“You are not invited to the wedding, Prudence, and I prefer it if you do not come to call for a bit. I am most unsettled by your actions.” Evangeline’s mother stood and looked to her sister. “I am sorry if I upset you, but this is most upsetting to
me, as well.
Lady Monroe blinked, her eyes glistening. “Prudence. I am astonished by your actions. Apologize to your aunt and cousin immediately.”
Prudence jumped to her feet. “I will not. Why does she always have to steal men from me? I saw Camren first. I even asked that you invite him here for dinner. I am so tired of everyone catering to my deformed cousin.”
“Prudence!” Lady Monroe looked about to swoon as Prudence ran from the room. “Accept… my sincerely apologies. I don’t know what’s come over her.”
“It’s best we leave.” Evangeline and her mother were escorted to the door by a servant as Lady Monroe remained frozen in her chair, eyes forward.
They rode back to their home in silence, her mother shaking her head every once in a while. Evangeline wanted to feel badly for Prudence, but she could not bring herself to. Her cousin was an indulged woman, much too old to do unreasonable things. If anything, she was making a fool out of herself.
Upon arriving at their home, her mother sent the driver off with a message for Camren and another to Mrs. Dove-Lyon asking for the possibility of postponing the marriage for a few days. She cited wishing for family from out of town to be present.
“There,” her mother said, walking into the sitting room. “I think this calls for brandy.” She poured a small glass and sipped it while Evangeline peered out the windows.
“If the wedding is not postponed, then it will be the day after tomorrow. I should prepare.”
Her mother nodded. “Once the messenger returns, we will send invitations out to just a few people. Rose and her parents, your book club friends, and the three families we’ve already discussed. I am not sure your aunt and uncle will wish to come. I am sure with Prudence not invited they will feel awkward.”
“We will send them an invitation nonetheless,” Evangeline said. “I’ll start writing them. We will just need a date to finish them off.”
Chapter Ten
Camren, accompanied by Gideon, arrived at the Edwards’ home later that afternoon to meet the patriarch. Edwards had made a fortune from his high-end furniture store.
Although it was not necessarily the type of business that would invest in large quantities of whisky, Mr. Edwards was well-connected and also planned to purchase a large amount from them.
“This is most tiresome. I am more than prepared to return to Scotland. We have made enough sales that there should be enough monetary gain for years,” Gideon grumbled.
Camren studied his friend for a moment. “I agree. Once this marriage situation is done, and we meet the next three clients, we will return to Scotland. I do not wish to prolong our stay.”
“So, another two weeks then?”
“Yes, our appointments cannot be changed. The largest purchaser is out of the country and won’t return until the end of the month.”
“What of your future wife? She may not wish to depart so soon. Leave her family.”
Camren had considered that. He wondered if and when the marriage took place what the plan would then be. There was much to discuss and, thankfully, a message had come just before they’d left, inviting him to dinner.
“I have much to discuss with her. We have to clear things up if there is any chance of this marriage not becoming a disaster.”
Gideon chuckled. “It is already much more than a disaster, my friend.”
It was true, not only because of Evangeline’s past, but also her meddling cousin. It was obvious there was no love lost between them. Although it seemed it was Prudence who did her best to hurt Evangeline. He’d never heard Evangeline say a cross word about Prudence.
He let out a sigh and wondered what that night would bring. The woman he was engaged to was beautiful. She seemed to be kind and caring. Although fetching, he would never consider her to be flirty. He’d not seen her do more than glance whenever a man or woman passed.
When the carriage pulled up to the Edwards’ home, they were greeted by a cheerful footman. “Good afternoon, gentlemen. Mr. Edwards is expecting you.” They followed him to a large parlor.
The sound of a woman laughing caught their attention. Rose and her father were in the room playing chess and she seemed to be teasing him. “You only beat me because you cheated, Sir.”
Mr. Edwards chuckled and shook his head. “It is not becoming of a daughter to accuse her father of being dishonest.”
“Laird Maclean and Mister Sutherland,” the footman announced.
Neither Edwards nor his daughter seemed surprised by their appearance. The father stood to greet him, while Rose remained sitting, her face flushed.
“Welcome. I apologize for our rude behavior, but my daughter has not learned the art of good sportsmanship.”
If Camren were to guess, he would say Rose was the same age as he and Gideon. Perhaps a bit younger. With an oval face, auburn hair and bright eyes to match, she was quite pretty. She smiled at them. “Welcome to our home.”
She stood and gently nudged her father. “I will ensure Mother is aware we have company.” Both Camren and Gideon bowed slightly as she took her leave.
Camren slid a glance at Gideon, noticing his friend tracked the woman’s movements and cleared his throat as warning.
“Please have a seat. I received your delivery and have yet to taste the different whiskies. I thought perhaps to do it when you arrived.”
Gideon chuckled. “If you have not eaten, I would advise very small servings.”
“I see you must speak from experience,” Mr. Edwards replied with a wide grin. “I will heed your warning.”
“Nice to see you old chap,” Edwards said, his gaze moving to the doorway as Evangeline’s father entered. Edwards was as likeable as Evangeline’s father was. The men were obviously good friends, which made for the expectation of a good afternoon.
“Camren, I hear you will be joining us for dinner,” Mr. Prescott said and then looked to Gideon. “Please, come along. I hear we are being served roasted pork pie. It is one of Martha’s best creations.”
A servant entered with a tray of thinly sliced meats and cheeses alongside a chunky loaf of bread.
“Perfect,” Mr. Edwards announced. “Now to taste.”
A few moments later, they were joined by Rose and Mrs. Edwards. The women sat down and were quickly brought into the conversation. They chatted about the upcoming season and asked questions about his and Gideon’s lives in Scotland.
Camren noted that Gideon had yet to drink and his lips itched to grin. His friend seemed to be infatuated by the pretty Miss Rose.
“Laird, do you plan to steal my friend away from me soon?” Rose asked. Her voice was pleasant, but her eyes pinned him with a look that told him she was not the least bit happy with him.
“I have to return to Scotland. But I am sure we will come to an agreement so that she can spend time here.”
“You are more than welcome to come to Scotland,” Gideon blurted.
The lovely Miss Rose blushed and slid a look to her mother. “Did I tell you I caught sight of the laird with Prudence the day of the ball?”
Mrs. Edwards gave Camren a tight smile. “You must be with care. Prudence is willful and doesn’t always have the best in mind when it comes to sweet Evangeline.”
Gideon stood with the other gentlemen to go to the sideboard. He would give them the information on each of the whiskeys and what flavors to expect.
It was perfect timing since Camren wanted to ask questions of the women present.
“I hope not to be overstepping,” Rose said in a low tone. “I know you are aware of Evangeline’s past. My friend is a passionate woman, both in love and friendship. Her passion is just as strong when it comes to devotion.”
Mrs. Edwards nodded. “What my daughter says is true. You will not want for a more caring wife. She is a treasure. I pray you can see past all the muddle of what society has created to realize it.”
“Thank you,” Camren replied. “You put my mind at ease.”
“How long do you plan to
remain in London?” Rose asked, her gaze sliding to where Gideon stood.
“If all goes as planned, until the end of the month.” Camren liked Evangeline’s friend and at seeing her frown, he quickly added, “What Gideon said is true. I live in a very large keep. There is more than enough room for all of you to visit.”
“I most definitely will.” Rose’s right eyebrow rose. “I must ensure my friend is happy.”
Camren nodded and smiled at Evangeline’s devoted friend. “I fear the consequences if she is not.”
Mrs. Edwards gave him a knowing smile. “I will venture to say that you and Evangeline will be quite happy once you and she get to know each other. I think you’ll be quite compatible.”
After excusing himself, he joined the other men to discuss business. The entire time, Mrs. Edwards’ comment remained forefront in his mind. Would he and Evangeline indeed be a good match?
Evangeline’s father looked to him. “Did I overhear that you plan to return to Scotland soon?”
“Yes, as planned. I have much to do back home. The warm weather is our time for farming, livestock sales and also ensuring housing is reinforced and repaired before the winter,” Camren explained.
Mr. Prescott frowned. “I imagine your duties are many then.”
“Yes,” Camren acknowledged. “The warmer weather also brings to light disputes over land and livestock amongst other things. Both good and bad situations that require my attention. Currently, my brother, Ian, and my uncle are handling things in my stead.”
“I am glad to hear you have the support of your family.”
Gideon lowered to a chair and conversed with the ladies. Once again, Rose’s complexion brightened, the soft coloring adding to her beauty. There was little doubt in Camren’s mind that Evangeline’s friend would be visiting.
On the ride back to the townhouse, Camren considered his family’s reaction to his marriage. He’d yet to send a message, preferring to wait until he was married to do so. It was best to ensure the family would be prepared before he appeared with an English bride in tow.
The Lyon's Laird: The Lyon's Den Page 8