Tabitha's Folly by Jen Geigle Johnson

Author:Jen Geigle Johnson
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Published: 2018-09-29T16:00:00+00:00

9

DISTRUST ALL AROUND

All the Eastons gathered in the conservatory in the early-morning hours. Soft light filtered through the glass. The thick air and rich smell of earth surrounded them. It was their typical planning meeting to determine who would accompany Tabitha throughout the day; but on this morning, for some reason, Tabitha was required to attend.

Tabitha sighed in resignation while her brothers argued and bargained for who would have to be with Tabitha during which activities.

Rustling in the trees drew her attention. Giggling carried over to them, and then Henry and Lady Summers turned the corner and came into view. Tabitha’s heart sank.

Henry held his arm out towards her brothers and turned to the woman at his side. “Here you go. I shall leave you to finish your walk with one of the fine Eastons.”

Julian only smirked, but Oscar straightened and held out his hand. “We are almost finished here. Perhaps you would enjoy a turn about the gardens with me?”

Her calculating expression almost made Tabitha laugh.

Lady Summers rested her hand on Oscar’s outstretched arm, and they turned down the next row of foliage.

As soon as Lady Summers left, Henry said, “I’m sorry I am late for the meeting.” Then he frowned. “Come to think of it, I was not aware of one.” He turned in question to Edward, who didn’t respond. But his face pinched, and Tabitha knew immediately he had kept the meeting from Henry.

“What time would you like me to be present?” He came to stand at her side. “Hello, Tabby Cat.” His low voice sent tremors through her.

“Hello.”

Edward frowned. “How about you be available if we need you through the afternoon. We’ve got it planned out and taken care of otherwise.”

“But I’m more than happy to take my turn. In fact, I could accompany her out on the pond, or we could take the horses out. Something fun instead of just standing about watching her talk to other men.” He coughed. “Or women.” His face turned pink.

Edward cleared his throat. “You could of course do that, and one of us will accompany.” He paused before he looked up.

Henry stiffened for a moment, then relaxed. “You feel the need to chaperone her when I am present.”

Edward watched him, measuring. “I do.”

Tabitha placed her hand on his arm. “Surely such a thing is not necessary.”

“I believe it is.”

Henry’s face clouded. “We need to discuss this.”

“We do.”

Henry nodded and then winked at Tabitha, which settled some of her angst. He turned to leave the conservatory just as Oscar and Lady Summers approached.

Lady Summers pouted. “Oh where is Lord Courteney going?”

When no one answered, she turned to Oscar. “Would you mind accompanying me to breakfast?”

“Certainly, my lady.” He stretched his hand forward, indicating she lead the way. Then he turned to Edward. “Just tell me where you most need me.”

When Tabitha and Edward were at last alone, Edward spoke first. “Tabby.” He took her hand in his. “I know this is all one big frustration for you.”

She sighed. “Most of the time, yes.

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