Page 54 of Embracing the Earl (The St. Clairs 3)

“I hear you purchase many children’s books,” she said.

He laughed. “All of my friends seem to be married with children. I enjoy spoiling the little ones.”

“Books are a great window to the world. You are doing these children a favor with such a thoughtful gift.”

Rachel said, “You’re to introduce Caroline around while we’re in the receiving line, Merrifield. Make sure you have her meet the right people.”

“Of course, Rachel. Heaven forbid that I don’t do your bidding.” He looked to Caroline. “She’s a bit of a tyrant, don’t you think?”

Caroline couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Enough of that,” Rachel said, swatting Merrifield playfully. “We’re here.”

As she entered the ballroom, it looked like a spring garden. Flowers abounded, their sweet scent filling the air. They went to greet Jeremy and Catherine.

“It’s good to see you all,” the duke said.

“You’ve done a magnificent job with the ballroom, Catherine,” Caroline told her friend.

“Rachel helped with the overall design. She has a good eye for decorating and arranging things.”

“She’s done the same at Evie’s,” she confided. “Moved a few chairs. Changed the angle of some of the bookshelves. Brought in a few knickknacks to personalize the place.”

“And don’t forget the fresh flowers,” Rachel added. “Once you open on Friday, I believe having those at the circulating desk and where purchases are tallied up will make for a nice touch.”

“I’m eager to see Evie’s,” Merrifield said. “It seems everyone has but me.”

Caroline thought a moment. “I have an idea. Everyone should come tomorrow afternoon at three, not only to see the bookstore and help me make any last-minute decisions, but I could have Mrs. Withers and Mrs. Baker serve tea. We could order from the menu as customers will, in order to give them and the girls waiting some experience before our grand opening.”

By now, Luke had joined them. She was aware of his presence the moment he arrived. Her nose recognized the sandalwood soap he used. He looked beyond handsome in his dark evening clothes.

“That’s a capital idea,” he proclaimed. “It would allow the clerks and staff to work out any kinks.” He gave her a warm smile. “Excellent idea, Caroline.”

She nodded and lowered her eyes, not wanting to meet his for fear her true feelings toward him might show.

Cor joined them, using a cane. “Fetch me a chair, Evan,” she commanded. “The receiving line will be long. I don’t intend to stand for the duration.”

“At your service, Cor.” He left to find one.

“You’re joining us, Caroline,” Jeremy said. “You may stand here.”

His words took her aback. “What? No. Of course not. I’m not family.”

“You’re staying with family, though. You are a dear friend to us all. It will be a way for you to meet others. I insist.”

“And just as firmly, I’ll decline,” she said. “Lord Merrifield is going to accompany me as I meet your guests.”

As Jeremy scowled, Luke laughed aloud. “I don’t know the last time anyone told my brother no. Bravo, Caroline.”

She blushed at his praise.

“Don’t worry, Caroline,” Catherine said. “It’s good for my duke to be put in his place every now and then.”

“You better watch yourself, Duchess, or I will find a private place and put you in yours,” her husband warned playfully. Then to Caroline, he said, “I’ve already mentioned to some of my friends that you will be here. They know to sign your programme. Look for Morefield. Aubrey. Neville.”

“And she must meet Amanda,” Luke said. “She’s Aubrey’s sister. They’ve both been friends of the family for years.”

“I look forward to meeting them. Outside the receiving line,” she said with a smile.

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