The Den of Iniquity by Anabelle Bryant

Author:Anabelle Bryant
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Harlequin (UK) Ltd
Published: 2017-09-03T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

‘Crispin is beyond generous to include me in your plans for the theatre, Sophie.’ Vivienne entered the Daventry town house and handed her wrap to Henderson near the door.

‘Don’t be ridiculous. We wouldn’t think of excluding you. I can’t wait to see the performance and I’m certain my brother is looking forward to the evening.’ She offered Vivienne a meaningful stare that spoke volumes.

‘Yes, I’m sure. Although I’ll be careful of how much I allow my appreciation to show.’ A rueful grimace curled her mouth, unsure of how to react. They knew the situation remained delicate, both ladies concerned for Crispin’s feelings. ‘Your gown is exquisite. You will be the finest dressed at Drury Lane.’ She paused, a sorrowful catch in her throat. ‘I’d be lost if you hadn’t welcomed me back from—’

‘Not another word. This evening shall be about excitement and pleasure. Your gown is absolutely lovely by the way. Does it feel wonderful to wear colours again?’ Sophie was quick to smile.

‘Oh yes, although I’m not sure this rose silk qualifies. It’s lighter in colour than I noticed when I chose the fabric at the modiste’s last week.’

‘I think it is the veriest shade of pink—darker than the fetching bloom of colour on your cheeks and fairer than your rosy lips.’ Crispin joined the ladies in the hall. He cut a striking figure in his cutaway tailcoat. Vivienne knew someday a deserving lady would lose her heart to him, if only he freed his own to receive another’s love.

‘Let’s not be late.’ Sophie retrieved her reticule and gloves from the sideboard. ‘I don’t want to miss a minute. How is it, Crispin, that you took the longest to dress and prepare? Your valet must have a megrim by now.’

Henderson stepped forward to hand the ladies their coats and Vivienne hid her laughter at Sophie’s tease behind her shawl. She was so thankful for their friendship. Her days were decidedly happier lately. Of course her mother was always with her and she still reserved doubt concerning her stepfather’s behaviour, but ever since stepping back into a schedule of duty and activity, she found herself with a lighter heart. A vivid image of Maxwell formed and she stifled a secret smile.

‘I take exception to your comment.’ Crispin winked in Vivienne’s direction. ‘We should be off.’ He approached her with a broad smile. ‘Milady, may I serve as your escort?’ He eased her hand into the crook of his elbow.

Vivienne accepted his arm, careful to keep her hold light as he handed her into the carriage and they set off for the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane. Crispin had already purchased their tickets for the performance, although it didn’t matter which show they were to see. Vivienne’s enthusiasm matched Sophie’s, the two in a flurry of conversation before Crispin climbed inside.

‘You look breathtaking, ladies. It will be a wonder if any gentleman can keep his attention towards the stage.’ He smiled warmly from across the coach. ‘I am a lucky man.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.