Page 17 of Romancing the Heiress
Because Mrs. Selkirk was Lady Norcott’s niece, it was entirely possible that the woman Lady Norcott knew was not the ogress that trod all over Leah at every opportunity. Ogress? The description almost made Leah giggle again.
“You are very kind to look out for your charge,” Sadie said. “I hope being a maiden fair won’t be too taxing for Miss Selkirk.”
“It isn’t just that.” Leah angled herself toward Sadie. She hesitated to continue but knew she should.
Sadie pivoted toward her. “Is something wrong?”
Leah gathered her courage. “I think Phin may want to offer for her. I thought it would be best if he didn’t have competition for her hand.”
“Oh, Leah.” Sadie gave her a quick but tight embrace. “You are far too generous. How can you be so thoughtful at your own expense?”
“Phin is my friend. Of course I’ll help him be happy.” That hadn’t been her first plan, however, because she’d truly thought they would be a poor match. If keeping them apart had also meant he would remain unwed and she could continue to dream about a future with him, well then, so much the better. Except it had only been a dream, and it was time to put those silly thoughts behind her for good.
“Are you sure you’re all right? You can tell me you don’t have feelings for Phin, but I know you did.”
“That’s the past. I left Marrywell seven years ago, and though I’m back right now, it’s not permanent. I’ve been happier since I left.”
“I can only imagine,” Sadie whispered with sympathy. “But I’m sad to think you may never call Marrywell home again.”
“My future lies elsewhere.” Leah only wished she knew where. She’d feel better about things, about losing Phin, once her next position—her path—was sorted.
Sadie didn’t look convinced. “You truly think so?”
Leah had to. “Don’t you think Phin would have written back to me if he cared about me the way I did for him? We’re old friends and nothing more.”
“I suppose. But he could also just be a man who’s terrible at corresponding. He has always asked me about you and told me to send you his best when I next wrote to you.” That was true, but it didn’t change the fact that if he truly cared, he would have written at least one letter. Wouldn’t he?
Sadie went on, “Are you really happy as a companion?”
“I was when I was with Lady Norcott. I don’t suppose you’ve detected any potential opportunities yet?”
“No, but I’ll make discreet inquiries.” Sadie cocked her head to the side. “Are you certain you might not want a husband? What if you could marry Ph—”
Leah quickly interrupted her. “Don’t even say it. That isnotan option.”
“I hope you won’t regret not telling him how you feel.”
“Usedto feel,” Leah corrected, though it was very much a lie. How she wished it could be true, though. She needed it to be true.
Sadie exhaled. “You never know what may happen during a matchmaking festival.”
Eager to divert the conversation, Leah gave her a wry squint. “Such as a duke’s coach losing its wheel in front of your house and you ending up married to that duke?”
“Ha, yes, exactly that.” Sadie sighed. “I should go find him. He was waylaid by a few gentlemen from London, and I think they dragged him into the gaming room. He’ll be desperate for rescue.”
They stood and linked arms as they walked back toward the door into the assembly rooms. Before they could go inside, however, a gentleman exited. His eyes lit with recognition when he saw Sadie.
He smiled. “Your Grace, you must introduce me to your companion.”
“Allow me to present my very dear friend, Miss Leah Webster,” Sadie said. “Leah, this is Mr. Lionel Mercer. We met earlier. He’s visiting the festival from London and is acquainted with Law.”
Mr. Mercer flashed a quick smile that brightened his flint-gray eyes. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance Miss Webster. How do you and Her Grace know each other?”
“We grew up here together in Marrywell,” Leah responded.
“I see. I find your town most pleasing.” He looked about the statue garden. “Indeed, I’m quite charmed.”
“Are you here to find a match?” Leah asked.
