Page 29 of The Viscount in her Bedroom
“We did, Grandmama.”
“Perhaps you can teach Manvil to assist Simon with his business dealings when we leave for the London Season.”
Louisa let her book sag to her lap. There was a noticeable silence.
For a moment, Miss Wade looked hesitant, even hopeful. Then she folded her arms across her chest. “I’m not sure I should go, Grandmama. Simon needs me. I would feel so much better helping him, than standing alone in a corner in successive ballrooms.”
Louisa felt even more determined as she listened to the buried pain in Miss Wade’s voice. Would Lady Wade accept an offer of help, or like Simon, did she think Miss Wade would eventually solve her own problems?
“Remaining here might seem easier for you,” Lady Wade said gently, “but how will Simon feel knowing you gave up your dreams for him?”
“I don’t know if I have dreams anymore,” she whispered.
Lady Wade suddenly looked at Louisa. Was this her opportunity to suggest ideas to help?
But Lady Wade said, “Before I hired Miss Shelby, I spoke at length with Lady Ralston, her last employer. Her granddaughter was frightened of her first Season. Miss Shelby worked with her, helping her become more confident. She was a success in London, and made a good marriage.”
Lady Wade gave Louisa an urgent, pleading look.
Feeling relieved, Louisa suddenly understood. She and Lady Wade had had the same idea. Louisa hadn’t been hired as a companion—but as someone to help Miss Wade. And since it was now Lady Wade’s suggestion, surely Lord Wade would no longer object.
Filled with purpose and excitement, Louisa turned to take Miss Wade’s cold hands in hers.
“Lord Wade wouldn’t want you to forgo your life for him,” she said firmly. Louisa was touched at how much she loved her brother.
Miss Wade closed her eyes. “But—”
“I had success helping Miss Ralston prepare for Society. I’d like the opportunity to work with you. You’re a lovely young lady, with so much to offer. I know I could help you feel at ease. We could start with a whole new wardrobe, one that shows you off like a jewel in a crown.”
Louisa glanced quickly at Lady Wade, realizing she was offering to spend a large sum of money that wasn’t hers. But the Viscountess was smiling with relief.
Miss Wade rolled her eyes. “There’s a lot more wrong with me than clothing.”
“There’s nothing wrong with you, Miss Wade. I’ll prove it to you. And I don’t mean that you shouldn’t help your brother, too. Perhaps you can help him in the mornings, and spend your afternoons with me?”
Miss Wade glanced at her grandmother with hope. “You would not mind if I continue to help Simon?”
“Of course not, Georgie my child,” the old woman said gently.
Miss Wade looked back at Louisa. “I would like to work with you, Miss Shelby. But you might be disappointed by the results.”
Louisa smiled with confidence. “I believe you’ll be pleasantly surprised.”
Lady Wade rose and came forward to kiss her granddaughter’s cheek. “Thank you, my dear. You’ve made an old woman happy.”
Miss Wade smiled uncertainly. “I hope you’ll keep thinking so, Grandmama. Louisa—you don’t mind if I call you that? I’m just Georgie.”
“That would please me immensely, Georgie,” Louisa said, filling with happiness and purpose. “Come to my room after luncheon. I have some beautiful sketches to show you of the latest London fashions.”
“You came prepared,” Georgie said with admiration.
“I’m always prepared. It gave me such joy to help Miss Ralston. Knowing that I can work with you, too, has showed me my true purpose, to help young girls prepare for their coming out.”
Georgie studied her. “But don’t you want the same thing you’re helping me to achieve? Don’t you want everyone to admire you, to find a man who loves you?”
Louisa hesitated, not wanting to dissuade the girl. “Honestly, I loved every moment of the Season. I loved the excitement of every ball, dancing with men, and even wondering whom I would sit next to at dinner parties. But I’ve done it for several years now, and I find myself wanting something new. Thank you for allowing me to help you.”
Georgie nodded and left, presumably to join her brother.
