“Yes, you did. She’s a wonder,” Georgette said as she hugged the older woman.
Isabel was the first to break the embrace. She lifted her dress from the box and held it against her as she twirled around the room. “Look at me! I’m dancing in satin.”
That brought a chuckle from both Georgette and Iris.
“Come, you have more surprises to unwrap,” Iris said.
Isabel nodded and reluctantly put her dress back in the box. They finished opening all the packages to many ‘ohs’ and ‘ahs’. Each item was lovelier than the previous one, but the satin dresses were the favorites of both girls.
“I know you both will be the loveliest ladies at dinner tonight. I’ll have Mrs. Smithfield take your packages upstairs.”
Isabel picked up her dress again. “I’ll bring it upstairs myself. I don’t want to let it go, for I can hardly believe it’s mine.”
Iris smiled. “Of course it’s yours, my dear. And there will be plenty more lovely dresses for both of you soon.”
***
A few hours later, the carriage pulled up in front of the Stanton family home.
“Such a grand home,” Isabel said as she peered out the window.
The driver jumped down and opened the carriage door. One by one, he helped each of the ladies out of the carriage.
“Please return at eleven,” Iris said.
“Yes, ma’am.”
At the door, the butler took their wraps before announcing them. “Mrs. Quinn, Miss Condiff, and Miss Knott.”
Catherine Stanton came into the foyer to meet them. She gave Iris a kiss on each cheek. “Iris, it’s been too long since I’ve last seen you. When Emily told me you were coming this evening, I was overjoyed.”
“Yes, as was I. It was delightful to see Emily again. She’s as beautiful as ever. I have two houseguests myself this Season. May I present Miss Georgette Condiff and Miss Isabel Knott.”
“Welcome to my home,” Catherine said.
“Thank you, Mrs. Stanton. We are pleased to be here,” Georgette said, speaking for Isabel as well.
Isabel could see where Emily got her beauty. Catherine Stanton was stunning in a pale green dress that complimented her vibrant green eyes.
“Please come in and meet my other guests,” Catherine said as she led them into the parlor.
***
Colby stood at the fireplace catching up with Ethan. “Thomas Galen sends his regards,” he told his cousin.
“Thomas is a good man.”
“Absolutely. Beth has given him a fourth son.”
“Really? He must be proud.”
Both men looked up when Catherine came into the parlor with her three guests.
Colby knew Mrs. Quinn, but he didn’t know the two young ladies with her. He leaned toward Ethan. “Who are the lovely ladies with Mrs. Quinn?”
“They must be the house guests Emily told me about. She met them at the dressmaker earlier in the week.”
Colby gave an appreciative glance over the young women. One was a pale delicate beauty with light brown hair, but her companion was the one who piqued his interest. She was a stunning, dark-haired beauty. What color were her eyes? He couldn’t tell at a distance if they were blue or not, but he planned on finding out.
Emily stood and welcomed the guests. “Mrs. Quinn, Georgette and Isabel, it is good to see you again. I’m so pleased that you could attend tonight.”
Ethan moved to his wife’s side. “Good evening, ladies,” he said with a bow. “Mrs. Quinn, a pleasure to see you again.”
Iris inclined her head. “Good evening, Mr. Richardson. May I present Miss Condiff and Miss Knott,” she said. “I’m hosting them for the Season.”
Georgette and Isabel both gave Ethan a curtsy. “Good evening, Mr. Richardson,” Georgette said.
“Mr. Richardson, pleased to meet you,” Isabel chimed in.
Ethan turned to Colby. “I’d like to introduce my cousin, Mr. Colby Tisbury.”
Colby strolled over and gave the women a bow. “It’s my pleasure, ladies. I think the most beautiful women in all of London are in attendance tonight.”
That brought a giggle out of Isabel. “I see that you are quite the flatterer, Mr. Tisbury.”
Colby stared into the most intense violet eyes he’d ever seen and his heart thumped in his chest. It was so out of character for him. He’d met many beautiful young ladies over the years, but none had captured his attention so fully and so quickly as Miss Knott. He flashed her an engaging smile. “Already you have learned my secret, Miss Knott.”
“Only one secret? Where is the challenge in that?” she said, mischief shining in her eyes and a shy smile gracing her lips.
Georgette leaned toward Isabel and whispered in her ear. “Dearest, be careful of your boldness.”
Isabel nodded. “Mr. Tisbury, I do hope I have not offended you.”
Colby inclined his head toward Isabel. “Not at all, Miss Knott. It’s refreshing to have a lively conversation with a young lady.” He watched for her reaction and was rewarded with her dazzling smile.
Emily linked arms with Mia. “And I’d like to introduce my dearest friend, Mrs. Giles. She’s visiting this week as well.”
“Good evening, but please call me Mia.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Georgette said.
“Do you live in the country?” Isabel asked.
“Yes, we have a lovely cottage about two hours from London. I rarely get to London anymore, and especially not with the little one.”
“You should see her son, Lucas. He’s the most adorable baby,” Emily gushed.
Mia smiled. “I’m afraid Lucas’s godmother is biased, although I must admit, I find him quite lovely myself.”
“Every mother feels that way. I know I did,” Catherine said as she glanced at Emily. “Why doesn’t everyone have a seat? Dinner will be announced shortly.”
Colby held out an arm to both Isabel and Georgette and escorted them to the sofa. He took the chair opposite. “Miss Condiff, how are you finding London thus far?”
“It’s been a wonderful experience,” Georgette said. “Our small village cannot compare to the hustle and bustle of the city and, of course, we cannot thank Mrs. Quinn enough for hosting us.”
He turned his attention to Isabel. “And you, Miss Knott. Are you enjoying your stay?” He found he couldn’t tear his eyes away from her. She was positively the loveliest creature he’d ever seen.
“Oh yes, it’s been so exciting. I’ve never seen so many folks on the streets at all hours.”
Before Colby could ask another question, the dinner bell rang. He stood and offered an arm to each young lady. “May I escort you?”
Georgette and Isabel stood. “That would be lovely. Thank you, Mr. Tisbury,” Georgette said. He escorted them both into the large dining room. He was pleased when he was to be seated next to Isabel. It would allow him the opportunity to talk with her more privately.
The maids brought in dish after dish and soon the table was laden with delectable food. Lively conversations swirled around the room, but Colby had eyes only for Isabel. He leaned closer to her. “Miss Knott, I do hope I’ll see you more of you this Season.”
***
Isabel gazed into Colby’s startling blue eyes and her heart raced. He was the most handsome man she’d ever met, and she didn’t want the dinner to end. His voice vibrated against her skin like the strings of a fine-tuned violin and she found herself daydreaming what it would be like to kiss his lips. What would it feel like? Pressed against those lips would be heaven on earth, she thought. She’d never been kissed before and she longed for Colby to be the first.
“Miss Knott?”
Isabel blinked, banishing her daydream. “Pardon? I’m afraid I did not hear your question.”
“Oh dear, I must be boring you to tears.”
“No, not at all. Please forgive me.” She couldn’t very well tell him that she was thinking about his lips—those full sensual lips.
/>
“Nothing to forgive. I was wondering if I’ll be seeing more of you this Season,” Colby asked.
“Would you like to?” she asked.
“Very much indeed.”
Isabel gave him a shy smile. “Well, then, I hope our paths cross often.”
Later that evening when the girls lay snuggled in bed, Isabel turned toward Georgette. “Have you ever seen a more handsome man?”
“What?”
“Mr. Tisbury, Emily’s cousin. He’s the most handsome man I’ve ever seen. Don’t you think so?”
“Yes, dearest. He seems the perfect gentlemen.”
“Perfect indeed,” Isabel said. “I dare say I’m quite smitten with him.”
“Really? You’ve only just met him. You’ll meet many young men in the coming weeks. Perhaps you shouldn’t rush forward. I don’t want to see your heart broken if Mr. Tisbury does not share your infatuation.”
“Georgette, I do believe it’s more than an infatuation. He talked with me all through dinner and sat next to me while Emily entertained us on the piano. I could have listened to his dreamy voice for hours.”
Georgette patted Isabel’s hand. “I’m glad you like him, but please guard your heart, dearest. Many young ladies get their hearts broken over their first crush.”
“I will.”
“Tonight is only the first night of many, and you’re bound to meet other young men. Who knows? You may find yourself smitten with someone else at the next dance.”
“Maybe, but I think this could be more than a crush,” Isabel said.
“Get some sleep and see how you feel about it in the morning. Goodnight, Isabel.”
“Goodnight.” Isabel rolled over and snuggled down in the pillows. Her last thoughts were of Colby Tisbury with those startling blue eyes and full, kissable lips.
Chapter 9
The next few weeks flew by with a series of tea invitations and dinners for Georgette and Isabel. At each dance, Colby was there to escort Isabel out on the dance floor. Each time they met, Isabel’s heart fluttered at the sight of him. Their lively banter only served to convince her that Colby was the perfect man for her. She would never want to marry a dull man, and Colby was anything but dull. Of course, it didn’t hurt that he was handsome, with a nice smile and those striking blue eyes that totally captivated her every time he glanced her way.
Tonight they were attending a dance being held at the Larkinson home. The rest of their dresses had been delivered and they had several silk creations from which to choose from now.
“Have you ever had so much fun?” Isabel asked her sister.
Georgette smiled. “I must say I’m enjoying this so much more than I thought I would. It has been delightful to meet so many new and interesting people.”
“I most heartily agree. What dress will you wear tonight?”
Georgette walked to the armoire and fingered the stunning silk dresses. She ended up choosing a cream-colored gown with blue ribbon accents, and Isabel wore a light pink dress with delicate lace at the bodice.
Rachel put the last flower in Isabel’s hair. “There you go. Do you like it?”
Isabel glanced in the mirror, turning her head left and right to see what Rachel had created. “It’s beautiful. Thank you.”
“Glad you like it, miss.” Rachel turned toward Georgette. “Are you happy with your hair, Miss Georgette?”
“Rachel, you seem to outdo yourself for each dance. I love the bit of ribbon you've woven through mine.”
“I’m happy you like it.”
“Well, we best be heading downstairs. We don’t want to keep Mrs. Quinn waiting,” Isabel said. “Goodnight, Rachel.”
“Goodnight, misses.”
Iris was waiting for them in the parlor. She looked up from her reading when they entered the room. “There you are!”
“How do you like this dress,” Isabel asked twirling in place.
“Every dress either of you wear looks stunning. You are beautiful young women and the dresses only serve to enhance that beauty.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Quinn.”
“So very kind of you to say,” Georgette said.
“Shall we go?” Iris asked.
“We’re ready,” Isabel said. Inside the carriage, Isabel couldn’t keep her curiosity in check. “Mrs. Quinn, do you know the Larkinsons well?”
Iris sighed. “When my dear husband was alive, we spent many wonderful evenings dining with Florence and Henry, but as the years rolled by after his death, I was less and less inclined to join them. Too many memories to contend with, I suppose.”
“Yes, sometimes that can be quite painful,” Georgette said. “I can see that you still miss your husband. It must have been a wonderful man.”
Iris nodded. “When you find your true love, you never stopped missing them even after they’re gone. One of the harsher realities of life, I’m afraid.”
“I’m so sorry to have brought up a painful memory,” Isabel said. “Please forgive me.”
Iris patted her hand. “Nonsense, my dear. I’m looking forward to seeing them again and also their daughter Kathryn. I haven’t seen her in years. She’s around your age, Isabel, maybe a year older.”
“I do hope we can be friends,” Isabel said. “It’s been wonderful meeting so many people so far. Everyone has been so nice.”
“Yes, this is the perfect time for you girls to enjoy yourselves. Life will never be so carefree again, especially after you marry.”
“Do you think we’ll find husbands?” Isabel asked.
Iris looked between the two young women. “I don’t see any reason that you shouldn’t. You are beautiful with grace and style to match any young lady being presented to society this Season. What young man wouldn’t want that in a future bride?”
“Thank you, Mrs. Quinn,” Georgette said. “That is high praise indeed.”
“You’re welcome, but I only speak the truth.”
“Did you hear that, Isabel?” Georgette asked. “Style and grace, dearest. Those are the traits we should emulate, not boldness.”
Isabel pushed out her bottom lip out in a pout. “I dare say that Mr. Tisbury likes my boldness. I’m sorry I cannot be someone I’m not, but I will work harder to make you proud of me.”
Georgette smiled at her sister. “I’m always proud of you.”
Their carriage rolled to a stop in front of another grand home. The driver helped them out and the butler met them at the door and took their wraps.
Every head turned when Georgette and Isabel walked into the ballroom.
***
Kathryn Larkinson had spent hours getting ready for the dance this evening. She had selected an ice blue gown to wear with her hair pulled up to show off her shoulders. That should get Colby’s attention. She wasn’t disappointed when she noticed his approving glance when he greeted her.
“Good evening, Miss Larkinson,” he said with a bow.
She curtsied and rose to meet his stare. “Mr. Tisbury. I do hope…”
She saw his head swivel toward the door and wanted to stomp on his foot for his inattentiveness, but most especially, when his face lit up with a smile. She followed his gaze and saw Mrs. Quinn enter the ballroom with two young women she’d never seen before. Who were they? And why was Colby so captivated with them? She didn’t like this turn of events and was determined to find out who they were.
“Mr. Tisbury, who are those young ladies with Mrs. Quinn?”
Colby never took his eyes off the trio. “That’s Miss Condiff on the right and Miss Knott to her left.”
“I don’t believe I’m acquainted with them.”
“They’ve been in town for barely a month. Mrs. Quinn is hosting them for the Season.”
“Well, then. I must go and greet them.”
Colby offered his arm. “Let me escort you.”
She placed her hand on his arm, determined to let the newcomers know that Colby Tisbury belonged to her. They made their way across the dance floor where Kathryn
’s mother was greeting Mrs. Quinn.
“Iris, I’m thrilled you came tonight,” Florence said. “It’s been too long since we’ve seen you. I have missed you, dear friend.”
Iris kissed her on each cheek. “Thank you for the invitation, Florence. I’ve missed you as well.” She turned to her guests. “May I introduce you to Miss Georgette Condiff and Miss Isabel Knott. They’re staying with me for the Season. Ladies, this is Mrs. Larkinson.”
Florence smiled at the young women. “How delightful to meet you both. Welcome to my home. I hope that you’re enjoying your stay in London.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Larkinson. Indeed we are,” Georgette said. “My cousin and I are so very pleased to be here this evening.”
“Mother, I don’t believe I know our newest guests,” Kathryn said as she walked up to the group.
Florence turned to her daughter. “Of course, dear. This is Miss Condiff and her cousin, Miss Knott. Ladies, this is my daughter, Kathryn.”
Kathryn’s gaze rolled over each young woman. “Good evening.” She saw Isabel look beyond her and land on Colby. She was not pleased when a beautiful smile lit up Isabel’s face.
She tightened her grip on Colby’s arm. “And this is Mr. Tisbury.”
Georgette and Isabel curtsied to Colby. “A pleasure to see you again, Mr. Tisbury,” Isabel said.
Kathryn’s head swiveled between Isabel and Colby. “You two know each other?”
Colby nodded. “Oh, yes, I’ve had the pleasure of Miss Knott’s company on a number of occasions since she’s been in London.”
“I see. You didn’t mention that, Mr. Tisbury.”
He tore his gaze from Isabel and focused on Kathryn. “No indeed, I did not.” He turned back to Isabel. “Miss Knott, I do hope that you’ll save me a dance this evening.”
A blush rose up Isabel’s neck and stained her cheeks pink. “Yes. Of course, I’d be delighted.”
Kathryn tugged on Colby’s arm. “Mr. Tisbury, I do believe you’ve promised the next dance to me.”
Colby bowed. “Ladies, if you’ll excuse me.”
“Georgette, Isabel, I’d like to converse with Florence,” Iris said. “Please do not let me keep you from going into the ballroom.”
“Of course, Mrs. Quinn,” Georgette said. She linked arms with Isabel and we walked into the ballroom. The two young women walked along the perimeter of the dance floor and Isabel scanned for room for Colby.
Age of Innocence Boxed Set (Books 1-3) Page 24