The Earl's Reluctant Bride: A Sweet Regency Romance (Brides of Somerset Book 1) by Karen Lynne

Author:Karen Lynne [Lynne, Karen]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-03-15T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

The following days flew by in a whirl for Susan. The dresses that had been ordered arrived a few at a time, which made Mary flutter with excitement at the array of accessories that complimented the gowns.

The countess’s lady’s maid kept Mary busy teaching her the proper way of caring for Susan. She was learning how to properly dress her as well as accessorize to the best advantage. When Mary wasn’t busy with her lessons, she was packing for their departure to London.

The countess kept her busy with lessons as well. She spent her time refreshing her social etiquette, preparing herself for the larger, more critical audience of the ton. She didn’t want James to be embarrassed, so she studied every spare moment. She didn’t play the pianoforte well like Abby but her mother had taught Susan to play the harp.

James had made arrangements for the servants to go ahead of their mistress so that all would be ready when they arrived at the town house. Susan had been taking care of her fathers needs for so long, she had forgotten how nice it was to be cared for instead.

Their trip to London went smoothly, With the well-sprung traveling carriage it was almost a delight. Arrangements were made to stop overnight at a comfortable posting inn. When they pulled into London after two days’ travel, Susan was quite refreshed. She was impressed by the grand entrance of the town house. It was double the size of its neighbors with a fine carved door displaying a shiny door knocker, indicating the family was in residence.

James gave his mother a broad smile as two livered footmen opened the carriage door. “Mother, I see you have arrived in good health,” He commented as he helped her from the carriage.

Susan’s heart raced at the sound of his voice. Her hand warmed at his touch when, he gripped her hand as she stepped from the carriage. Then he tucked it into his arm as he guided her up the stairs into the house. “I have been to see your father.” James quietly spoke into her ear.

“What has he said?” Susan hoped all was well with her father.

“I shall tell you about it after you have had a chance to rest and change.” James released her hand.

The countess had started for the stairs. “I will see you two at dinner.”

“The housekeeper will show you to your rooms.” James lifted her hand and brushed it against his lips. Susan felt shy, as always, at the intimate gesture. “I want to show you around after you have rested. I’ll be in the library, working, when you are ready.” She felt his eyes follow her as she trailed behind the housekeeper.

She was settled in a pretty set of rooms done out in chintz and situated next door to the countess. The effect was simple and pleasing. Mary appeared from the sitting room and bobbed a curtsy. “Miss Susan, I have everything ready for you to wash up.”

Susan touched her hand to her mouth while trying to suppress a giggle.

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