Page 46 of Refining the Debutante
Lady Callister blushed a light shade of pink. Miranda had never seen her embarrassed.
“Oh, come now. What a silly thing to say,” Lady Callister said, brushing off the compliment.
“Lady Callister is the utmost example in our community.” The reverend’s affectionate smile caused Lady Callister’s blush to deepen.
“Thank you. I do try to involve myself where I can be of assistance.”
“Then, you might be as concerned as I am about a recent piece of news.” The reverend dished himself some more peas. “I learned yesterday of a man who gambled away his fortune and left his daughter destitute. I have reason to believe that woman is now in our midst, and a few families are expressing their concern. Mrs. Godfrey’s niece is visiting, and I cannot help but wonder if it is her. Such a scandal will disrupt our harmonious congregation. I hope to speak with Mrs. Godfrey soon and encourage her to send her niece to reside elsewhere.”
Miranda’s heart raced. She met Lady Callister’s eyes, unsure whether the woman would call her out in front of the reverend. This was the end. Gray House was calling.
“Oh, I do not think it necessary.” Lady Callister sent a reassuring glance to Miranda. “The poor girl deserves our sympathy. Besides, Mrs. Godfrey’s niece is staying only a fortnight.”
“Oh, excellent,” Reverend Giles said. “A fortnight ought not be long enough to make any permanent impressions on any person.”
“Mrs. Godfrey is mostly housebound and such a sensitive soul. Let’s not speak a word of it to anyone.”
Mr. Giles put his steepled fingers to his mouth as if sealing his lips. “Your wisdom astounds me as always, Lady Callister.”
Lady Callister smiled, and there was no denying the two were besotted with each other. Miranda observed them carefully. More than ever, she wanted to know what it took to make a relationship work. Moments like this made her wish she had a mother to teach her.
* * *
Miranda never received visitors, which made one particular visit a rather thrilling occurrence.
“Captain Grant to see you,” the butler announced.
Lady Callister raised her brows and turned to look at Miranda expectantly. Would Lady Callister allow her to receive callers? Miranda, who sat in her same embroidered chair in the drawing room as always, stood and clasped her hands together.
Captain Grant entered and gave a perfunctory bow, followed by a delighted smile directed at Miranda. “Good morrow, ladies. How are you faring on this lovely afternoon?”
“We are well,” Lady Callister responded for the both of them. “Please, sit down.”
Captain Grant flipped up his coat tails and took a seat on the edge of a chair. He resembled a soldier ready for battle. “When I last visited Stonebrook Hall, I was informed of Miss Bartley’s change of accommodations. I thought I might ask after her welfare and pay my respects to you, Lady Callister, as well.”
“How delightful,” Lady Callister said, although she did not sound quite delighted. Odd, since she enjoyed at-home hours during which a number of callers frequented her door.
Captain Grant directed his next question solely to Miranda. “How are you enjoying your new role as a companion?”
“I find it suits me,” Miranda answered honestly. The truth of her words struck her as odd since she had not noticed that she had adjusted to her position. Lady Callister was not pointing out as many failings now, and Miranda no longer resented her. Equally strange, she still had hope her future would take a different course. Right now, however, her future was out of her hands, and she was enjoying her current direction. “Lady Callister tolerates me well enough, I think.”
Lady Callister nodded as if she were considering the idea. “Miss Bartley is an acquired taste, though I think you would disagree with me, Captain.”
“I do disagree,” Captain Grant said. “I found Miss Bartley absolutely charming from the moment we were introduced.”
No wonder Jane loved this man. His sincerity and kindness reminded Miranda of Ethan. Lady Callister, however, seemed to study the captain with an astute stare—not disagreeing with him, nor agreeing, but measuring his every word.
“How long have you been in the neighborhood?” Miranda asked, sensing the need to direct the subject away from herself.
“I bought Laurel Manor, which had been empty for some years. I am attempting to have several rooms redecorated, but I am finding it a little out of my realm of experience. Perhaps the two of you might come for tea and offer your advice?”
Miranda nearly gave her immediate acceptance but remembered her place and looked to Lady Callister.
“I would gladly advise you,” Lady Callister said, “but our social calendar is filled for the foreseeable future. Perhaps you will be content to hear our opinions at a later date.”
“Or if you cannot wait,” Miranda added, avoiding Lady Callister’s eyes, “Miss Jane Roderick might be of assistance. She has impeccable taste.”
Captain Grant raised his brows. “I appreciate your recommendation and will take her into consideration. As far as my timeline for redecorating, I will gladly content myself in my current situation until you both are free to bestow your generous opinions.”
