Page 53 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

Chapter Seventeen

Caroline sat stillas Rachel’s maid finished arranging her hair. She gripped her hands in her lap, feeling like one large bundle of nerves. Here she was, at twenty-three, only now making her debut into society. She tried to remember the lessons with her dance master years ago and found everything she’d practiced with him had fled from memory. What if she got out on the dance floor and couldn’t move? The thought chilled her.

“There, my lady. You look right nice,” the maid said, offering her a hand mirror.

She looked at her image, pleased that at least, on the outside, she appeared ready to conquer the world. Her caramel-colored hair was artfully arranged and her dark blue gown complimented both her hair and fair complexion.

“Thank you,” she told the servant, who quietly exited the room.

Caroline couldn’t help but wonder what tonight would be like. She’d never been to a ball before. She and Rachel had visited Catherine this morning and seen the ballroom. Servants scurried about with potted palms and decorations, giving her a small idea of what the room would look like tonight. Still, she had to factor in hundreds of guests in their finery. Especially since this was the opening event of the Season, everyone invited would want to look their best.

Rachel entered, looking lovely in a green gown that matched her emerald eyes. Diamonds sparkled at her ears, throat, and wrist. Caroline knew from their previous conversation that these were the Drake diamonds, which Evan had bought especially for her.

Caroline had no jewelry to wear. Once again, she knew the women of thetonwould judge her for that.

“You look beautiful,” Rachel exclaimed. “Madame Toufours outdid herself on your gown.”

“She is very talented. Though I’m a bit self-conscious about the neckline.” She fought the urge to yank the gown up. In her opinion, too much of her bosom showed.

Rachel placed her hands on Caroline’s shoulders. “You will shine tonight.”

A servant appeared in the doorway. “My lady, Lord Merrifield is here. Lord Merrick is with him now.”

“Thank you. We’ll be down shortly,” Rachel said.

“I’m looking forward to meeting Lord Merrifield.”

“He will be one of several gentlemen you’ll dance with tonight,” her friend revealed. “The St. Clairs will introduce you to all of our friends in attendance. In fact, I’m putting Merrifield in charge of you while we’re in the receiving line. Jeremy insists that Evan, Luke, and I join him. He is a strong proponent of family. While we’re receiving guests, you’ll be in good hands.”

“Then I suppose I should go meet him.”

“I think you’ll enjoy Merrifield’s company quite a bit,” Rachel said. “He’s articulate and handsome and puts others at ease. I feel you would have a lot in common, especially since he’s mad for books. Not only is Merrifield a gentleman—but one of the best men I know.” She grinned. “Andhe’s looking for a wife.”

A hot blush flooded Caroline’s cheeks. “Rachel, I’m not—”

“You’re not going to commit to Merrifield or any other man tonight,” her friend agreed. “But he’s definitely someone to keep in mind. I’ve promised to help him look for a wife since he’s done such a pitiful job up until now. Who knows? You might be Lady Merrifield one day.”

They went downstairs and Caroline saw Evan talking with a man. He had his back to her but she could see he was tall and had broad shoulders.

“There they are,” Evan said, and the man turned.

My, the earl was awfully handsome.

Merrifield had dark blond hair and high cheekbones. As they came closer, Caroline was drawn in by his penetrating blue eyes. He smiled, revealing white, even teeth. She couldn’t imagine why he’d had such a difficult time finding himself a wife.

“So, this is the mysterious bookstore owner.” He took her gloved hand and kissed her fingers. “I’m surprised it’s taken us this long to meet.”

Rachel snorted. “This is Merrifield, Caroline. He’s a terrible flirt. Get used to it.”

The earl’s eyes gleamed at her with interest. “Rachel has told me so much about you, Lady Caroline. I understand you’ve been busy night and day, preparing for the opening of your bookstore and tearoom.”

“I have,” Caroline replied. “I was able to accumulate my stock more quickly than I’d expected so Evie’s will open this coming Friday.”

“Let’s get to the carriage,” Evan said impatiently.

“We can take mine,” Merrifield said. “It’s already out front. It will be convenient for us to go together.” He offered Caroline his arm and led her outside.

Once inside the carriage, he said, “I will be one of your most loyal customers, Lady Caroline. I am a great lover of books and buy them often for myself and friends.”

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