Page 18 of A Spinster's Sinful Temptation

“Regina does love to play. She seems to conjure magic every time she plays.”

“Well, I hope that’s the case after dinner. Excuse me a moment, Lady Eleanora.”

He gave her a bow and left the room. Ellie watched as Regina ran her fingers over the harpsichord, whispering something to Dorothea that made her sister giggle. Aunt Emma didn’t have a piano in her house, and Ellie knew how much Regina missed playing. This would be perfect for her, somewhat therapeutic.

“I didn’t think you knew Cliveton-Smythe, Lady Drummond.”

Ellie froze, a tingle going up her spine. Oh, God. He was here as well? She turned and saw the gentleman from the night before approaching her from the direction of the fireplace, a glass of sherry in his hand. How had she not noticed that he was there?

“Oh!” Swallowing, Ellie quickly bobbed a curtsy. “I didn’t realise you were present.”

“Cliveton-Smythe does tend to forget things, including introducing all of the guests to each other.” He gave her a wry smile. “So, is Lady Drummond actually your name, or were you telling me a lie last night?”

What was it about him that made her so flustered? Ellie’s mouth had gone dry, and her palms were sweaty. She put her hands behind her back, hoping she didn’t look as hot and bothered as she felt.

“Drummond is my name. I’m Eleanora Drummond, daughter of the Earl of Gillingham.”

“Ah, I see.” Something flickered across his face. “I’ve heard he’s not well at the moment.”

“He is sick, but he’ll be fine. He just needs rest and fresh air.”

That was what the doctor had said, after all. Ellie just hoped her father would listen. She cleared her throat.

“Seeing as you know who I am, am I permitted to know who you are?”

“Derrick Upton, Earl of Northampton.” His smile widened. “You can call me North.”

“North?”

“Well, Northampton is a bit too much all the time.”

Ellie had to concede that. After a moment, his name sank in, and Ellie realised she was talking to an earl. How had that happened? Now she felt like she couldn’t speak. What on earth should she say to an earl?

Maybe she shouldn’t have asked for his name; he was far easier to talk to when she wasn’t aware of his title.

“So, you were telling the truth about those two being your sisters?” North asked, gesturing across the room towards the girls.

“Yes, Regina and Dorothea. It’s Dorothea’s coming out Season.” Seeing a slim, good-looking man with dark red hair standing beside Regina, Ellie frowned. “Who’s that with them?”

“That’s my friend, Randall Copelton. Don’t worry, he’s respectable.”

“I guessed that, seeing as Lord Cliveton-Smythe wouldn’t invite someone who wasn’t.”

“Fair point.” North chuckled, and the sound made Ellie shiver. How did someone make a noise so warm? “How do you know the old man? I didn’t think you three would cross paths with him.”

“My father was one of his students. Lord Cliveton-Smythe was a headmaster at Eton College, wasn’t he?”

“Yes. He taught my father and uncle as well, and myself when I went there.”

“You’re a former student?”

“Both Randall and I were once taught by the old man.” North grinned. “He was strict but good. And fun when he wanted to be, especially as he got older and mellowed with age.”

“Wait a minute…” Ellie made a mental calculation. “Lord Cliveton-Smythe is eighty, yes. Are you saying he’s still teaching?”

“He only retired last year. He decided it was time to make the most of his retirement, even if he did it a bit late.” North shrugged. “I guess he was one of those people who loved his job. Everyone adores him.”

“I can tell by the tone of your voice. You’re fond of him, aren’t you?”

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