Page 15 of The Duke's Stubborn Wallflower
Pall Mall, Rivalries and Wine
Nigel’s experience in the milliners had taught him two things. The first was that hat shopping could in fact be made worse than he had initially thought, and the second was that he would be forever grateful not to have been forced to marry Olivia Rokesby.
The nerve. Who does she think me is to speak to me like that? All I was trying to do was apologise!He had left the milliners in such a fury that he had had to return the next day to purchase three hats, two exactly the same as each other and one more for riding This only added to his dislike of the woman.
“Cousin, what on Earth are you glowering about?” a voice broke into Nigel’s thoughts, pulling him back to the present. “You cannot be that angry about needing to find a second footman.”
It had been days since his encounter in the hat shop, yet still he could not shake the memory. He turned to his cousin, Lord Frederick Briston.
Lord Briston was of a similar age to Nigel though shorter than Nigel by a few inches which had been a source of much contention when they were boys. His brown hair was always perfectly styled, unlike Nigel’s hair which had a tendency to look windswept.
“What? No. Though I do need to find one.” Nigel shook himself out of his reverie. “In truth, I was recalling a particularly infuriating encounter I had a few days ago.”
“It must have been quite something. I do not think I have ever seen you look so angry.” Lord Briston looked concerned.
“It was though we should not dwell on it. After all, this is a garden party is it not? You mentioned that you may have a candidate for footman for me?” Nigel tried to inject a sense of joviality into his voice.
“Yes, a rather excellent chap. Mr. Jaspers. He has helped with several formal dinners, so I can attest to his competence,” Lord Briston said.
“Wonderful, send him around as soon as you can. Mr. Amos will be delighted, I am sure.” Nigel ran a hand through his hair.
“Father always says that a well-staffed house is a well-run house.” Lord Briston took a sip of his wine.
Nigel managed not to roll his eyes and instead asked, “How is your family?”
“Father is very well, thank you, and grandfather. He turned one and eighty only the other week!” Lord Briston smiled.
Nigel felt an odd pang in his chest.It is not his fault that only your direct line is cursed.“That is wonderful. I was sorry not to have made the celebration. Please convey my well wishes to him.”
“Of course.” Lord Briston gave his cousin an odd look. “Are you feeling quite well?”
Nigel paused with his cup midway to his lips. “Whatever do you mean?”
“You just… Well, forgive me for saying so old chap, but you look rather tired.” Lord Briston bit his lip.
Nigel stiffened. “You know, it is rather poor form to tell a man you think he looks unwell.”
Lord Briston blanched but held his ground. “Cousin, I meant no offence… It is just… well… I am worried about you. We are family, after all. I just want to help.”
“What help could you offer?” Nigel knew it sounded rude and hastily added. “I am sorry. It is only that at this point, I have tried everything I can think of and yielded nothing.”
“Well, have you talked to any botanists? I know a rather renowned botanist, and I am sure I could find something that would aid you,” Lord Briston offered. “Please, cousin. Let me help you.”
Nigel hesitated. He did not like the thought of being indebted to anyone, but perhaps his cousin could be of some assistance. “Do you really think you might be able to help?”
Lord Briston nodded. “Though it would be best not to mention it to anyone, lest our efforts prove unsuccessful. I would not want to give your mother false hope; she has suffered enough heart break.”
Nigel swallowed. “You are right. Of course, we shall keep this between us.”
“Tell me, what symptoms have ailed you. This may help me in my search for a cure.” Lord Briston held Nigel’s gaze. “You are sleepwalking, I take it? Any cramps? Palsy? Changes to your senses? Perhaps strange cravings?”
“Only the sleepwalking really. Well, there has been some stomach pain but no palsy or anything else you mention,” Nigel whispered as softly as he could.
“Good, that is good.” Lord Briston looked thoughtful. “We have time. Tell me, what botanicals have you tried?”
Before he could answer, a group of women walked into the garden, and he found himself quite distracted. He let out a hiss of annoyance.Of course, she would be here.
Lady Olivia Rokesby, Miss Jane Pembleton, and Lady Cotswalts had just arrived. He watched as the three women approached the hosts and exchanged greetings.
