Page 44 of Miss Millington's Unexpected Suitor
“I would concur with that.”
“Mayhap Lord Warrington will be here this evening, and you will be able to dance with him!”
With a small sigh, Constance forced her lips to pull into a smile. She was not in the least bit enamored of the idea of being at a ball, but society dictated that she attend since the invitation had already been accepted. It would be poor form not to do so, and it was not as though she could hide away. Nor could she explain to her mother that she was heartsick over a gentleman who did not have any intention of falling in love. How could she tell her that the only gentleman who now filled her heart was not someone she could ever contemplate marrying, given that he would never permit himself to fall in love?
“If you do not think Lord Warrington suitable, I am certain that your father will find another.” This was said without any threat, only as an acknowledgment of the truth. “I do think that he will be a little more careful with his suggestions from now on.”
Constance looked at her mother.
“That is good, at least, although I am sure that father hopes desperately for my affections to fall upon Lord Warrington.”
Lady Hayman nodded.
“I am certain that is true, my dear, but my own considerations are not the same as your father’s. After all,” she continued with a slight catch to her voice, “Scotland is soveryfar away.”
Sudden tears burned, and Constance said nothing, falling into step with her mother as they made their way into the ballroom, her arm tightening just a little. It was only when Lady Yardley waved to her that Constance excused herself and her mother let her go, seeing now that she was to speak to her friend.
* * *
“Good evening, Lady Yardley .”
The lady smiled just as Lady Winterbrook joined them.
“Good evening. I am very glad to see you this evening.”
For whatever reason, there was a brightness in Lady Yardley’s voice that Constance had not expected. Perhaps, she considered, Lady Yardley was doing her best to lift Constance’s spirits.
“Another ball.” Lady Winterbrook smiled. “I know that Lord Warrington is to be present, and I hear you have been enjoying his company of late.”
Constance shook her head.
“I have walked with him once, and he came to take tea the day after. That is all.”
“And do you find him a pleasant gentleman?”
Constance could not help but sigh.
“Yes, of course, but you know very well that I cannot think of him in any other way than as an acquaintance. A kind person, certainly, but not one whom I could give my heart to. However,” she continued with a sad smile, “I have resigned myself to the fact I have no other choice but to marry a gentleman I do not particularly care for. My hopes for a marriage of love are quite gone from me.”
“Because of Lord Seaton?”
Lady Yardley smiled, then took Constance’s hand.
“My dear, there is something I wish you to read.”
Constance frowned.
“To read?” she repeated as Lady Yardley nodded.
“Yes. It is a copy of ‘The London Ledger’ which was only published earlier this evening,” Lady Yardley replied. “I have made certain that those at the ball are amongst the first to receive a copy. Should you like to peruse it?”
From the look in Lady Yardley’s eye, it was obvious that there was something within the Ledger that Constance was meant to see. Without a word, she took the copy which was handed to her by Lady Yardley but did not look down at it. Instead, she searched her friend’s face, wondering why there seemed to be such a spark in her eyes. Was it that another gentleman had decided to write a letter in response to hers – even though it was some time ago - eagerly expressing his hopes for love and affection within it? Was she to be given another hope in that regard?
Do they not understand? I can love no other but Lord Seaton, even though he will never return my affections.
“Please, do read it.”
Now it was Lady Winterbrook’s turn to encourage her, giving her a warm smile before gesturing to the Ledger. Constance glanced around the room. There were some people already reading ‘The London Ledger’. Some were using it to fan themselves, whilst others were pointing at different parts, heads close to one another as they perused it. With another frown directed towards Lady Yardley, she finally turned her gaze down to it, her eyes going to the part Lady Yardley pointed out.
