A Sense of Misgiving (Perceptions Book 3) by Wendy Soliman

Author:Wendy Soliman [Soliman, Wendy]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-02-28T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Nine

Mary rather enjoyed being the centre of attention at the first party held in her honour, although she did wonder if that made her shallow. She especially enjoyed Captain Redfern’s society but sensed tension in the room. Lucy had disappointed her by making several unkind comments about Flora, which Mary thought both unnecessary and beneath her friend. She had tried to make Lucy understand that Flora’s circumstances were unusual, but that she was the sweetest person, wise beyond her years and the greatest possible fun. Lucy nodded, pretending to accept the explanation, but her own upbringing had been so very different to Mary’s, and it was important to her that everyone should know their place. Mary wanted to laugh at such absurdly outdated views.

‘My sister and I are thinking of taking an excursion to Swallow Hill on Monday, if the weather stays fine. It’s been years since I visited the top, but the views are extensive and the trees quite spectacular at this time of year.’ Captain Redfern smiled at Mary. ‘Can we persuade you to join our party?’

Mary’s immediate reaction was to accept with enthusiasm, but something made her hesitate. ‘I shall have to ask my brother’s permission, but if that is forthcoming, then I shall be delighted.’

‘I hope the earl will not think the invitation inappropriate.’

‘I don’t imagine he will. I’ll speak with him and send word.’

‘Excellent!’

The captain looked satisfied with that arrangement and changed the subject to literature.

‘When shall you return to your regiment?’ Mary asked, when they had exhausted the subject of the latest novel that had scandalised public opinion. Captain Redfern had thought it rather facile, but Mary had been shocked by its content and enjoyed it immensely. At one point, she would have kept that fact to herself for fear of being considered unenlightened, but Flora’s influence had taught her to have the courage of her convictions. Captain Redfern’s opinion was important to her, but if she disagreed with him, she was not about to pretend otherwise.

‘Alas, it is by no means certain that I shall continue with my career in the army. My leg has not properly healed and there are doubts that it ever will.’

‘I am very sorry to hear it,’ Mary said sympathetically. ‘That must be a torment for a man of action like yourself.’

He played with the stem of his wineglass. ‘I consider myself luckier than those who didn’t come back at all.’

‘Of course.’ She moved aside so that Woodley could remove her soup plate. ‘What shall you do with yourself instead?’

‘I must decide upon an alternative career. I cannot abide being idle. The law holds a certain appeal, but nothing is decided yet. I am still talking to various people.’

‘The law is a noble and worthwhile profession. I should imagine that it would keep you fully occupied, so idleness will not be a consideration.’

He smiled and Mary felt herself blush beneath his scrutiny. He changed the subject, and they discussed local affairs for the rest of the meal.

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