Page 11 of Summoner of Sins

“Any more theories on why your uncle has suddenly thrust you into society?”

“None.”

“Are you still intent on finding a husband?”

“Yes.”

“Then play a game with Elsa. If you attend the next ball, having her lead you about the ballroom will only improve your chances.”

“But couldn’t you do that?”

Tabbie sniffed. “I’m not known for being well-liked.”

Sophie frowned. Tabbie was the only other person who’d done anything of consequence for Sophie. This was the sort of person she much preferred to spend her time with. “You’re well-liked by me.”

She didn’t give a fig about finding a husband who was socially accomplished or even rich. She needed enough money to eat and live, and to educate Abigail. Beyond that…she wasn’t completely sure. She simply wanted a man who was kind and caring. “I thought you said I should focus on barristers and doctors. My guess is Elsa doesn’t spend time with many of those.”

Tabbie smiled. “Too true. Do a circle with her first to be seen, and then I’ll help you meet men I think you might like. How important is handsome?”

She nipped at her lip. She wanted to say not important at all and mean it. She did, but she couldn’t help but think of Lord Maxwell. In the light of day, he’d been even more handsome than he’d been at night. He had sandy brown hair and tawny eyes. The muscles she’d been a bit afraid of that first night made him look dashing in the light of day.

She let out a sigh. “I need a man who is caring and will accept my sister and help educate her. Looks are the least important attribute on my list.”

Tabbie gave her a wink. “I’m going to wager you get all three and more.”

“Come,” Elsa called. “We’re going to play blind man’s buff!”

Sophie softly laughed before she picked up the edge of her skirt. “All right. I’m going to do this.”

“Go,” Tabbie said. “I’ll be waiting here when you return.”

With a swish of her skirts, Sophie joined the other women. It was fun enough until Elsa pulled her aside.

“I’m so glad you could come.”

She didn’t mention she’d been told by her uncle to do so. It was all so odd. “I’m glad to be here.”

“Good. I think we’re going to be the best of friends.”

Sophie smiled and dipped her chin, but did not respond.

Elsa tried again. “You know Lord Whitehouse is very good friends with my father.”

She nodded. Why Lord Whitehouse was suddenly part of her life was another concern.

“I shall tell you a secret. There is an informal agreement that I should marry Lord Whitehouse’s son, Lord Cranston.”

She nodded again, keenly curious as to where this conversation was going. “That’s wonderful.”

“Thank you. Being an honorary baroness would be wonderful, but knowing I’d someday be a countess,” she gave Sophie a smirk of satisfaction.

Sophie jerked her chin in acknowledgment, though titles didn’t concern her in the least. “I’m sure that would be very nice.”

“You don’t care about being titled?”

She shook her head. “Honestly. No. I don’t judge, I just want…security, I think.”

“I understand,” Elsa patted her hand. “I’m sure he’ll be happy to hear that.”

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