Love by Deception (Age of Innocence) Page 3

  “A father likes to see his sons settle, I suspect.”

  Colby nodded as Beth poured the tea. “Would you care for a sweet cake with your tea? I baked some this morning,” she said.

  “Yes, that sounds delicious. Thank you,” Colby said.

  Colby spent the next thirty minutes visiting with the Galens until their three older sons came barging into the house.

  “Mama, Richard won’t let me have a turn on the swing,” their youngest wailed. The noise woke up the baby and his cries joined those of his brothers, both clamoring for their mother’s attention.

  “So nice to see you, Mr. Tisbury, but I must tend to the little one or he’ll be out of sorts for the rest of the day,” Beth said.

  “Of course. I should be on my way as well. There are some other farmers I need to check in with before I head home. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to send word,” Colby told Thomas as he stood and extended his hand.

  Thomas shook Colby’s hand in a firm grasp. “Will do. Good luck in finding a wife. She’ll be one lucky girl to catch your eye.”

  “We shall see,” Colby said and walked outside. He put on his hat, mounted Diego and clicked the horse into a trot. As he traveled to the next farm, he couldn’t help but think about Thomas’ last statement. Would his future wife be the lucky one? He wasn’t looking forward to courting anyone at the moment. None of the young ladies that had been introduced in the past few seasons had managed to keep his attention for long. They were perfectly acceptable choices according to his father, but none offered witty conversation or stirred his blood with passion. He vowed to hold out until he found the perfect woman. Perhaps this Season would be different.

  ***

  Isabel lifted her eyes from her embroidery to steal a look at Georgette. Her sister was looking healthier these days and she was glad of it. It had been hard those first few weeks after Mr. Condiff’s death to convince her to leave her bedchamber, but each day Isabel coaxed her to the parlor and to stay up a little longer. When she mentioned that they should start to practice their dancing, Georgette balked, but Isabel was relentless in her pleas and finally Georgette had no choice but to agree if she ever wanted any peace.

  “Isabel, I see you looking at me. Rest assured I am feeling quite well today and there’s no need for you to hover over me.”

  Isabel chuckled. “There will always be a need for me to hover. You are my sister and I want you to stay well. Left to your own devices, I’m not sure you would take proper care of yourself.”

  “Might I remind you that I’m the older sister and I should be the one giving orders here.”

  “My dearest sister, you may give the orders all you like, but just know that I won’t always be following them.”

  Georgette stared at her headstrong younger sister and shook her head although a smile played on her lips. “Always the bossy one.”

  “If it keeps you well, then I’m happy to take that title,” Isabel said, her violet eyes full of mischief.

  “Would you care for some tea?” Georgette asked.

  “Yes, that will be lovely. I’ll get it.”

  Georgette stood and pointed her finger at her sister. “No, you sit there. I’m perfectly capable of preparing and serving us some tea.”

  Isabel wanted to object, but she knew the more tasks that Georgette did for herself, the stronger she would become. And that was her most fervent wish – for her sister to stay healthy. Georgette was her only family now, and Isabel couldn’t imagine life without her. Ever since the reading of Mr. Condiff’s will four months ago, a calm had settled over her, knowing that she was no longer alone and adrift in the world. Georgette was her anchor, and Isabel wanted her to enjoy a long and happy life.

  It didn’t take long for Georgette to come back with the tray of tea and slices of sweet cake. “See, that didn’t take long,” she said as she placed the tray on a nearby table. She poured the tea and handed the cup and saucer to Isabel.

  Isabel put her embroidery aside. “Thank you. You know I only have your best interests at heart, right? I don’t want you to think I’m being heartless when I push you to do things on your own.”

  Georgette poured a cup of tea for herself and sat down in her father’s leather chair. “I know, dearest, but it’s been so tiring trying to be healthy. Might we take the day off from the dancing lessons and perhaps read for the afternoon instead? It’s been awhile since I’ve felt well enough to even do that.”

  Isabel watched as Georgette lovingly rubbed her hands on the worn leather chair. “Of course, we can. That sounds like a lovely way to spend an afternoon. You know I miss him too.”

  Georgette looked up with tears filling her eyes and threatening to spill down her cheeks. “I can’t believe he’s gone. I wake up each morning thinking that I will see him when I come into the parlor. I know he wasn’t happy the last few years, but the house seems so hollow without him to fill it up with his presence.”

  Isabel nodded. “I understand. The last months have been painful, to say the least, but I can hardly believe I’m a gentleman’s daughter. It is a heady fact to digest.”

  “Speaking of that, Isabel, you must stop acting as my lady’s maid. You and I are both daughters of a fine gentleman and if you wish to find a husband deserving of you, you must learn to act the part. You are a servant no longer.”

  Isabel nodded. “I know, but it will be hard to relinquish my duties taking care of you, especially when I don’t see them as a chore in the least. It’s my pleasure to make life as comfortable for you as possible. You must know that.”

  “Indeed, I do, but all the same, you must stop fussing over me all the time. Now, do you remember the lessons the governess taught us about the proper decorum for a lady?”

  “Not really. I think I skipped out on a number of those lessons. Do you really think there’s a chance I’ll find a husband in London?”

  “Of course, why wouldn’t you? You’re beautiful and smart, and perhaps with a few lessons, the perfect young lady for any gentleman to be happy to have as his wife.

  Isabel beamed at her sister. She always knew the right things to say to make her feel loved. A husband? Wouldn’t that be something? She closed her eyes and wondered what it would be like to be kissed, really kissed by a man. The only man she’d been around for most of her life was Mr. Condiff and half the time, he had ignored her.

  “Isabel, are you listening?”

  Isabel’s eyes popped open and she felt a blush rise up her neck. “Sorry, I was merely thinking about the possibility of attracting a husband.”

  Georgette nodded. “I understand, but please pay attention. A lady’s most important accessory is her fan. Use it to give yourself a few moments to think of an appropriate response should a gentlemen come over and speak with you. It would not do well for you to blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.”

  “Are you saying I’m too bold?”

  “Maybe a little,” Georgette said.

  Isabel stood and placed her teacup on the tray and hurried up the stairs. “I’ll be right back,” she said over her shoulder.

  When Isabel came back into the parlor with a white lace fan, she saw her sister was frowning.

  “Isabel, what are you doing?”

  “I’m following your advice. Shall I practice for you?”

  Georgette couldn’t help but smile. “Yes.”

  Isabel set out to practice every scenario she could think of. “Miss Knott, it is a pleasure to meet you,” she said in her best imitation of a low, manly voice. Fanning herself, she batted her eyes and replied, “Thank you, sir. And who are you again? I’m so busy fanning myself that I completely forgot your name.”

  Her sister’s laughter filled the front parlor. “Isabel, you’re shameless.”

  “I know. Shall I demonstrate more?”

  Before Georgette could answer, Isabel played out scene after scene entertaining her. She was laughing so much that tears rolled down her cheeks. “Stop, you must stop. I c
an’t breathe anymore,” Georgette begged.

  Isabel skipped to the sofa and threw herself down in a fit of giggles. “It’s so good to hear you laugh,” she said when she regained control.

  Georgette swiped at the tears on her cheeks. “Yes, it is. Thank you for that.”

  “It’s my pleasure, but rest assured, I will heed your advice. I just couldn’t help myself today,” Isabel said, sipping her tea.

  “I know. I especially liked your low, gravelly voice. I do hope that no gentleman has a voice like that or I won’t be able to contain my laughter.”

  “Do you think it will be much longer before we hear from Mrs. Quinn? It’s been nearly three weeks since you sent your letter inquiring about a trip to London.”

  “I don’t know. Perhaps she’s been busy, or possibly moved?”

  “We would have such fun in London, don’t you think?” Isabel asked, taking a sip of her tea.

  “I do, but we’ll have to be patient. We cannot arrive in London with no one to host us. It would not be proper, and we’d have no chance of meeting any gentlemen.”

  “I suppose you’re right. Proper introductions are everything.”

  As if on cue, there was a knock on the door.

  “I’ll see who it is,” Isabel said putting her cup down and walking into the foyer. She opened the heavy oak door to see a young man holding out a letter.

  “Delivery for Ms. Georgette Condiff,” he said.

  Isabel took the letter. “Thank you. I’ll see that she gets it.”

  The young man nodded and Isabel closed the door. She hurried back to the parlor. “Georgette, I think your reply is here.”

  Georgette took the letter and sliced open the seal, then began to read.

  My dearest Georgette,

  I was truly saddened to learn of your father’s passing. He and I were great friends when he lived in London and I missed him terribly when he retired to Essex. I extend my deepest sympathies for your loss.

  Regarding the matter of a visit to London, it would be my pleasure to host you and your cousin for the Season. Please come at your earliest convenience. I have notified my modiste (the best in London if I do say so myself) of the need for new gowns for both of you. Mr. Ingham has already made ample funds available for whatever you shall need.

  I am so looking forward to seeing you again, as I have not laid eyes on you since you were a toddler. My home is your home for as long as you’d like to stay in London.

  My very best,

  Mrs. Iris Quinn

  Isabel jumped off the sofa and squealed in delight. “Oh my, we’re going to London. How exciting.”

  “Yes, we are. Mr. Ingham was quite speedy with the funds, don’t you think? I merely mentioned to him the possibility of us going to London. It would appear that he has already been in touch with Mrs. Quinn.”

  “I shall go upstairs and start packing at once,” Isabel said.

  “Isabel, wait, dearest. We will have plenty of time for that. First, we must make arrangements for a carriage. I shall write to Mr. Ingham and ask his advice.”

  “Can you pen the letter now? I can deliver it to his office before it gets dark,” Isabel said.

  “I’m not sure that’s a good idea. I don’t like you walking alone. Let’s say we both deliver it tomorrow morning when I’m feeling more refreshed.”

  Isabel tried to hide the disappointment from her face. She wanted more than anything to go to London. She’d spent her whole life here in this village as Georgette’s servant. She hadn’t minded, but ever since reading her father’s letter, she wondered how different her life could have been if she had been raised not as a servant, but as Georgette’s sister or even her distant cousin. She was aching for new adventures as a proper young lady, but she knew that it might be too much for Georgette today. “Of course, that will be fine. Why don’t you write to Mr. Ingham and I will go in the kitchen and start dinner.”

  Georgette nodded. “That sounds perfect.”

  ***

  The next day the two young women set out in mid-morning to walk to Mr. Ingham’s office in the village. The last time they were there, Georgette barely had enough energy to sit through the reading of her father’s assets. Today she walked along without effort. Isabel had done her hair in a bun at the nape of her neck and had a nice shine to it, bringing out its golden highlights. Even the gauntness in her face was gone. Her cheeks had a healthy glow and her hazel eyes were bright. She walked with purpose beside Isabel.

  “It’s such a lovely day for a walk, don’t you think, Isabel?”

  Isabel nodded and linked her arm with her sister’s. “Indeed it is. It gladdens my heart to see you so well today.”

  Georgette smiled and it reached her eyes “Thanks to my bossy sister, I have regained my health. I forgot how good it felt to enjoy the sunlight.”

  “Don’t think I will let up once we reach London,” Isabel said with a chuckle.

  Georgette squeezed her hand. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

  “Ladies, may I be of assistance?” came a deep voice behind them.

  They turned around to find Mr. Ingham walking behind them.

  “Mr. Ingham, we were on our way to your office. I hope this is a good time,” Georgette said.

  Mr. Ingham tipped his hat to them. “I would be delighted. Please let me escort you,” he said, while offering an arm to each young lady.

  “Thank you. That is so very kind of you,” Georgette said, placing her hand on his proffered arm.

  The trio arrived at the solicitor’s office within a few moments. Mr. Ingham held the door open for them. “Ladies, please come in and have a seat. May I offer you some tea?”

  Georgette shook her head. “Thank you, no. We won’t be staying long.”

  Mr. Ingham took off his hat and went around to sit at his desk. “What brings you ladies to my office today?”

  Georgette reached inside her reticule and pulled out the letter. “I didn’t know if you’d be here today so I wrote you a letter. Isabel and I have heard from Mrs. Quinn. She has graciously agreed to host us for the Season in London.”

  “Yes, I’ve had correspondence with Mrs. Quinn. She wrote to me to inform me of her decision and to secure funds for your use.”

  “That was very kind of you, Mr. Ingham,” Isabel said. “May we ask that you arrange for a carriage to London?”

  Mr. Ingham nodded. “Yes, of course. When were you planning to leave?”

  “We’d like to leave as soon as possible. Will that be a problem?” Isabel asked.

  “No, not at all, Miss Knott. I shall arrange for it. Shall we say two days hence? It will give me time to rearrange my schedule.”

  Georgette leaned forward. “Your schedule, sir?”

  “I will be escorting you ladies to London. Mr. Condiff would turn over in his grave if he knew I let his daughters travel without a proper escort.”

  Isabel inhaled sharply. “You know that Mr. Condiff was my father? It’s supposed to be a secret.”

  “Yes, I know. Mr. Condiff confided in me a number of years ago when he came to see me about his last wishes.”

  “I see.”

  “Miss Knott, please be assured that I would never divulge a confidence. I have kept the secret for a number of years and will continue to do so. No one will learn the truth from me.”

  Isabel relaxed into the chair. “Thank you, Mr. Ingham. May I ask you a most delicate question?”

  “Of course, what is it?”

  “Do you know the identity of my mother?”

  Mr. Ingham shook his head. “I’m sorry, no. Mr. Condiff kept that from me and it was not my place to ask.”

  “I understand.”

  “Now, is there anything else?”

  “Yes, can you arrange for someone to check the house periodically? We may be gone for a few months.”

  “Yes, of course. Don’t worry about your home. I will see to it that all is in order. Is that all?”

  Georgette stood. “Yes. Tha
nk you for everything Mr. Ingham. We are looking forward to seeing you in two days.”

  Isabel followed suit. “Good day, Mr. Ingham. Thank you.”

  John Ingham stood and bowed. “It’s my pleasure, Miss Condiff, Miss Knott. Good day.”

  The two young women left the solicitor’s office and headed home.

  “Georgette, are you well? You’re very quiet,” Isabel asked.

  “I’m fine. No need to worry. I was thinking how much our lives have changed in such a short time.”

  Isabel stopped. “Are you unhappy about learning I’m your sister? If you’re worried about sharing the per annum, I will…”

  Georgette linked her arm with Isabel’s and started walking. “Do not be silly, dearest. I couldn’t be happier to learn that we are truly sisters. I couldn’t imagine my life without you. I only meant it would have been nice to have known this while we were growing up. You should not have been made to work so hard.”

  “It was not so bad.”

  “Still, I feel you have suffered a grave injustice. I would happily give you the entire per annum if that would make things right.”

  “Nonsense, there was no injustice. I was happy growing up alongside you.”

  “Are you sure? You hold no ill feelings?”

  Isabel shook her head. “No, although I confess I have wondered how my life could have been different, but there’s no point in dwelling on things that cannot be changed. We are embarking on a new adventure and that’s what we should be thinking about, not on events in the past we had no control over.”

  Georgette nodded. “Thank you, Isabel. You have lifted a burden from me.”

  “Come now, let’s hurry home. There is much to do.”

  Georgette chuckled. “Yes, of course.”

  Chapter 4

  Isabel had pulled Georgette’s collection of day dresses out of the wardrobe and laid them on the bed. It was mid-morning and the sun was streaming in the room, making the space bright and cheery. She tried to hum a merry tune, but an overwhelming sadness clung to her. Try as she might, she couldn’t banish the feeling. Although she’d had several months to come to grips with the devastating death of Mr. Condiff, it continued to pain her that she had never known that he was her father while he was alive. It would have changed everything for her.