Page 8 of Charming the Accidental Suitor
Everson was a gregarious sort, and yes, possibly even flirtatious. But the idea of him flirting with Felicity?—
For a moment he was too overcome with fury to speak.
“Has he been making…untoward advances?” he managed.
She gave one of those scoffs again. Oddly, the unladylike noise was starting to grow on him. It made him want to laugh even though he’d been in a foul mood tonight even before this little minx had joined him.
“He has not yet, but I imagine that’s because he knows I’m after a title.” She made a face. “At least I hope that’s the reason, otherwise I might be offended.”
His brows arched at her easy admission. “You’re after a title?”
She lifted a shoulder. “My parents are. And that’s what matters, isn’t it?”
He didn’t like this tone. Not on her. It was bitter and resigned and…not at all fitting for this little spitfire.
But once again, she moved on too quickly for him to respond. “So, you see, Lord Albright?—”
“Albright,” he said. “Just Albright. No one ever uses my given name, and my friends just call me Albright.” He wasn’t even sure why he’d said it. But it felt wrong for him to call her Felicity and her to be using his title.
She nodded. “You see then, Albright, why this is very much my concern.”
He did see. Blast it all. It was beyond irritating that she had a truly valid point. But when he met her gaze, he saw the notched chin and the determination…
But he also saw the sweet cornflower blue shade of her eyes, and the pale gown that hugged her curves and accentuated her small waist, and the way that one curl refused to stay in place. He itched to tuck it behind her ear.
Despite her feisty nature, she was still a young lady.
And Everson was a threat.
He didn’t want her anywhere near the man.
“I’m sorry, Felicity,” he said gently.
And he was surprised to realize he truly meant it. It might be nice to have someone to discuss this investigation with. There was no denying she was clever. She’d likely be a help.
His regret grew when he saw her disappointment.
His gut churned with the uncomfortable feeling she wasn’t just disappointed at not being let in on the gossip, but that she was disappointed inhim.
He frowned. “Felicity?—”
But he was too late. “Very well.” She was already turning away with a dramatic sigh. “Then I suppose you don’t wish to know what Mr. Everson wanted from my dear uncle.”
His mouth opened but she was walking quickly away.
He watched her go—and his one and only lead went with her.
3
It wouldn’t be long before Albright sought her out.
Felicity tapped her foot as she smiled and nodded to a passing acquaintance. She knew he’d seek her out, but honestly… “What’s taking him so long?”
“Hmm?” Jane murmured beside her.
“What’s that?” Meg asked.
Felicity gave her friends a rueful smile, and a moment later they were all smiling broadly at a passing matron. “My apologies,” she said when the older woman passed their spot in the park. “I fear I’m a bit distracted today.”
