Page 16 of The Theory of Earls (The Beautiful Barringtons 1)

Welles nodded slowly. “All excellent points, Miss Lainscott. But I still—”

“I need you only to reintroduce us and possibly…help things along.” She was pushing her luck and the boundaries of propriety in asking Lord Welles for such a thing, but Margaret knew her limits. She was no great beauty and older than most of the young ladies making the rounds this season. A high intellect wasn’t valued in a wife. Margaret might require more than an introduction.

“Help things along?”

“You know what I mean, my lord.” She waved about her hands. “Esteem me. Highly regard me. Perhaps mention your admiration for my talent on the piano.”

“I do admire your talents.”

“And I would ask your discretion in this matter.” Surely a gentleman who adored his stepmother and sisters in such a way could be trusted.

“You have my promise I’ll not speak a word of what you’ve asked. But I’m not certain I am the right man to assist you. You could presume upon my stepmother, for instance.”

“I’ve only met the Duchess of Averell today.” Margaret’s fingers curled into her skirts, tugging at the material in frustration. “Is there nothing I can do to convince you to help me? Another performance on the piano, perhaps?”

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