Page 19 of The Duke of Distraction
He let out a dark laugh.“Hardly.I just hope you marry someone who values you in every way.”
“Thank you.”She hoped so too.
“I’ve scheduled the races for Wednesday and Thursday at Darent Hall.”
She frowned.“That’s a long drive two days in a row.”
“Yes, which is why it’s a miniature house party.I will ensure several bachelors are in attendance.”
“That’s…wonderful.However, I am not sure my mother will allow me to attend—and she won’t want to go.She didn’t like the races.”Sarah rolled her eyes.
“Which is why she isn’t invited,” Felix said with a delight that provoked Sarah to laugh.“This is aprivateparty.I’m inviting select people in person and swearing them to secrecy.”
She held up her right hand.“I solemnly swear to keep it secret.Except I have to tell my mother.”
“Yes, you do.”He looked out over the garden for a moment.“Tell her Lucy is hosting a short party for her friends, and that you’ll be going with Lavinia.”
“That could work.”
“If not, tell her it’s a Bachelor Forum.”
Sarah laughed again and couldn’t stop for a moment.“You really ought to consider opening such a place.”
“It already exists.I believe it’s called Almack’s,” he cracked.
Another giggle escaped Sarah.“You’re in rare form tonight, Felix.”
“Thank you.”He inclined his head.“I think.”
“Please invite Mr.Fielding,” she said.
Felix arched his brow at her.“I thought you weren’t interested in him.”
“Not particularly, but he was very charming, and since he’s newly back to town, he could do with some engagement.”
“You’ve a generous heart,” Felix said.
“No more than you.”
He snorted.“Hardly.As I said before, I am helping you and only you.Indeed, you’re the only unmarried woman I can suffer.”
“Well, now you’re just flattering me,” she said.
“Always.Shall we go back inside?”
She took his arm.“If we must.You’ll let me know when you schedule the appointment to see the shop in Vigo Lane?”
“As soon as I know, you will.”He steered her toward the ballroom, inclining his head at another gentleman who escorted a lady onto the terrace.“And I’ll invite Mr.Fielding.”
“Thank you.I’m quite looking forward to the party.”She turned to look at him.“I assume I can discuss this with Lavinia?”
“Of course.And Anthony.And the Dartfords.”He peered down at her.“I trust you to know whom to talk to.There’s your mother.Do you want me to take you to her or somewhere else?”
The latter, but she supposed she should talk to her about the party.“To her.”
He chuckled.“You sound as if she’s wielding an executioner’s axe.”
“Very droll.”
