Page 53 of As the Earl Likes
“Some magazines contain literature,” Tamsin said.
Ellis arched a brow. “I think the duchess is more interested in fashion and gossip.”
“Either of you want something to drink?” Tamsin asked. “I’m going to fetch a glass of wine.”
“Nothing for me just yet,” Jo replied.
“Me neither,” Ellis said with a shake of her head.
As Tamsin moved across the room to the refreshment table, Jo angled herself toward Ellis. “Thank you again for your help the other night.”
“You were gone awhile,” Ellis noted, her gaze curious. “I couldn’t help noticing that Sheff was also absent, and that he returned to the ball not long after you did.”
“We ran into each other while we were both seeking a respite.” Jo didn’t want to say anything about Sheff helping his father in case Ellis didn’t know. Though, Jo began to suspect Ellis knew a great deal about what happened in that household. And why wouldn’t she?
“I hope that didn’t disturb your peace,” Ellis said with a smile.
“Not at all. Sheff and I are friends. He apologized for his mother. I was just grateful that I barely interacted with her the rest of the evening.”
Ellis chuckled. “How fortunate for you. It was a nice ball. I met your father and found him rather engaging.”
“Be careful,” Jo warned with a smile. “He’s a charmer.”
“Is it true that your parents don’t live together?” Ellis asked.
“Yes. I’ve never shared the same household as my father.”
“But you are close? I saw you with him at the ball later on, and you seemed to be.”
“We are,” Jo said. “He’s the reason I come to literary salons. He likes to take me to different events.”
Ellis smiled, an almost wistful look in her eyes. “That sounds lovely.” Her features sobered. “Do your parents know the truth of your betrothal?”
“My mother does. My father would not be able to keep the secret.”
“That must be difficult. To have to lie to him, I mean.”
“I don’t enjoy it, but it’s necessary. Sometimes, I think I was foolish to agree to help Sheff, but talking to you at the ball actually helped me feel good about my decision. I will have a chance at the life I want, and I’m incredibly grateful.” Jo laughed softly. “And don’t ask me if I decided what that will be. I’m still mulling things.”
“Fortunately, I don’t think you have to rush.” Ellis winked at her.
Tamsin returned with her wine, and Gwen arrived. Her husband had dropped her off on his way to the Phoenix Club.
“I’m surprised he didn’t want to come in,” Jo said with a mischievous smile. “Isn’t this where you had your first kiss?”
“Yes. The whole evening was so daring.” Gwen giggled. “I don’t know where I summoned the courage to dress and act as Lazarus’s ‘great-aunt.’”
Jo laughed. “You certainly didn’t behave as his ‘great-aunt’ when I caught the two of you in the retiring room.”
“That’s because he’s a rogue,” Tamsin said, her eyes dancing with mirth. “Or was, anyway.”
“He still is,” Gwen said primly, though her gaze held a devilish glint. “He’s just my rogue.”
That had to be a heady feeling—to know a man who’d enjoyed female company, perhaps to excess, had chosen her above all others. And he was so clearly and desperately in love with her… It was enough to almost make Jo want that for herself.
Almost.
A few minutes later, they all took their seats to hear Lady Standish speak. Jo lost herself in the poetess’s words, and by the end of the first poem, she had come to one decision.
