Page 64 of Empowered By the Earl (Second Sons of London 3)

Chapter Nineteen

Louisa went upto her bedchamber to change again. She had had no idea so many gowns would be required at a house party. She thought she had changed gowns often during the Season while in town but this house party was proving to be twice as many times as usual. Tilly, however, was enjoying it and told Louisa to make certain to let her know what tomorrow’s activities would involve in order for her to have the correct number of gowns that would be appropriate for each event.

As Tilly fussed with the ribbon on a gown, Louisa washed up, actually thankful to be changing clothes again before going to tea. Lawn bowling had proved to be a bit exerting but she was incredibly pleased at how well she had picked up on the sport. She hoped they would play again before the house party ended so she could practice her new skills some more. Especially after hearing that Everett had to pay the crown a licensing fee to have and maintain his bowling green, she wanted to make certain he got his money’s worth.

“After tea, it is just dinner and indoor activities?” Tilly asked.

Louisa nodded. “Yes, and after tea I am to walk in the gardens with Lord Hurley and collect a few flowers for my new vase. Then I will need to freshen up and change again for dinner since it is a formal affair each evening. As far as I know, we will remain indoors after dinner. I believe Her Grace has a few parlor games planned.”

“Very well, Miss Goulding. I have laid out the sprigged muslin for now and I think we should go with the blue satin for evening if that is agreeable with you.”

“I am always happy to listen to your advice, Tilly. You have quite a sense of fashion, much more so than I ever will.”

The maid helped Louisa into her gown, tying the ribbon beneath her bosom into an elaborate bow.

“Perhaps I should wear a fichu with this,” she suggested. “The neckline is a bit low for the afternoon.

“Tsk-tsk,” Tilly said, shaking her head. “That won’t do at all, Miss Goulding. I know you are here to find a husband and one of the first things men do is look at a woman’s bosom.” Tilly gave her a stern look. “Don’t think I am judging you in any way, Miss Goulding. I know the purpose of house parties and there are several good candidates among the men gathered here.” She paused and then asked, “Are you interested in any particular gentleman?”

Though Louisa hated to gossip, she was interested in her maid’s opinion. They had been together for many years and she trusted the servant.

“Lord Boxling and Lord Hurley have both been quite attentive to me,” she began. “Both men have recently come into their titles and have indicated to me they are interested in wedding soon and having a family.”

“Oh, Miss, that is wonderful to hear,” Tilly exclaimed. “Both viscounts are quite handsome. Do you have a preference between them?”

Louisa did not have an answer for that. “No, not at this time. I am just beginning to know them. Perhaps in another few days, I might be able to answer your question.”

“What about the other gentlemen? That Lord Danbury is a handsome devil, he is. It seems the two of you were growing quite friendly before the house party even began.”

A wave of disappointment hit Louisa, knowing that Owen was not considering a bride. She swallowed and said, “Lord Danbury is a good man. However, he is not the one for me. He is in no hurry to wed and, as you know, I am not getting any younger. I need to take the opportunities given to me in hand and hope something comes of them.”

“Just asking, Miss Goulding. He always seems to look at you a bit hungrily, if you know what I mean.”

Louisa did—because she felt as if she looked at Owen the exact same way. It didn’t matter. She had to put those desires behind her and look ahead. Not behind.

“I think I will wear the earrings Papa gave me this evening. Or even now. They would look good with both this gown and that one.”

“Of course,” Tilly replied, retrieving the earrings and handing them to Louisa so that she might screw them onto her earlobes.

She rose, smoothing her skirts, giving herself one last glance in the mirror.

“You look very pretty, Miss Goulding. I hope you enjoy cutting flowers with Lord Hurley.”

The two women left the bedchamber, Louisa turning to the right and Tilly to the left to go down the servants’ staircase. As Louisa continued down the corridor, a door opened. Miss Peterson stepped out.

“Miss Goulding, it is so good to see you. Shall we go down to tea together?”

“That will suit me,” she said. “How are you enjoying the house party, Miss Peterson?”

“Actually, more than I thought I would,” the younger woman said. “I am glad we have struck up a friendship and hope that we might continue it once we leave here. I also have found several of the gentlemen present quite interesting.”

“Do you favor any of them?” Louisa asked. “Are you looking for a husband, Miss Peterson?”

Miss Peterson chuckled. “I suppose we all are. I am three and twenty now and despite my bluestocking tendencies, I do long for a husband and a home of my own. Children, as well.”

“I am a year your senior and know exactly what you mean,” Louisa confided. “I also have a reputation as a bluestocking and have kept numerous men at bay during the Season. However, I have been pleasantly surprised that among the bachelors here, it doesn’t seem to be much of an issue. In fact, a few of them have encouraged me and been interested in hearing my opinions.”

“I suppose that is because of the men your cousin selected to invite as her guests,” Miss Peterson said as they headed down the staircase. “I quite like Her Grace and I believe she likes me, too.”

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