The Rules of Seduction by Madeline Hunter

Author:Madeline Hunter [Hunter, Madeline]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi, azw3
ISBN: 9780553903119
Publisher: Random House Digital, Inc.
Published: 2006-10-31T07:00:00+00:00

She was not entirely on display in the drawing room. Once good wishes and a blessing of approval had been administered by Easterbrook, the brothers chatted among themselves while they waited the call to supper.

A quarter hour after Hayden’s return with his brother, another guest arrived. Henrietta sailed in, wearing a formal dinner dress of blush tulle and gros de Naples. Her face glowed with delight beneath the bird of paradise plume that adorned a pink beret-turban that Alexia had allowed her to buy last week.

She targeted Easterbrook with her stride, not looking at anyone else. Halfway to him, her eye caught Alexia. Confusion flickered, but Henrietta was not to be waylaid.

“How generous of you to invite me, Easterbrook. After this morning, I worried that perhaps you—I was undone to receive your request to come, although surprised that you meant tonight. Such short—Well, I am here, grateful and relieved.”

Easterbrook’s welcome carried a formal edge. Alexia sensed the coolness was not for his aunt so much as for her unexpected addition to their group.

When Henrietta acknowledged Alexia, she spoke indulgently. “I am happy that my nephew could find you. I trust there will be no more talk of your leaving. How generous of Easterbrook to allow you to stay for our little party as well. You may take my carriage back once the meal is finished. I am sure that my nephews will see that I am returned.”

Hayden took his aunt’s hand between both of his. “Aunt Henrietta, this will not so much be a little party as a little celebration, and Miss Welbourne’s attendance is essential. She and I became engaged this afternoon.”

Henrietta smiled up at him in her dreamy way. Very slowly, her mouth tightened and her eyes turned to ice. A chilled silence claimed her for several slow moments.

“How wonderful, Hayden. I wish you both every happiness.”

“It is wonderful, isn’t it? I could not be more pleased,” Easterbrook said. He offered his arm to his aunt. “Let us go down. I hope it is not a cold supper. I detest them.”

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