The Lyon's Laird - Hildie McQueen Page 0,1
she was from other social gatherings.
Due to the unfortunate incident, she never received an invitation to more than tea at some houses which, in and of itself, was rare.
As much as Evangeline hated social occasions, she loved being part of transforming a stark ballroom to a beautiful oasis. And she would always help, even though Prudence was annoying. She treated Evangeline with as much disdain as any other person.
“Of course, I will help, although I am not sure I’ll remain for the ball itself.”
Prudence gave her a knowing look. “You can sit and enjoy the music. It will be nice to see what everyone wears. I am sure your friend, Rose, will join you as she never has an escort either.”
“That’s true. There will be plenty of chairs available for both of you. Unlike you, Prudence cannot sit about,” Lady Monroe interjected, her lips curving to a smile that did not reach her eyes. “As hostess, Prudence will be required to entertain and dance. This is the year we will strive to find a proper match for a marriage for her.”
“The invitations have gone out to a group of rather promising gentlemen,” Prudence informed them. “One in particular, I hope to get to know better.”
“Who is that dear?” Evangeline’s mother asked.
“I prefer to keep it to myself for now,” Prudence replied, inspecting her nails. “He is the talk of the town, however.”
“There are plenty of eligible men, even some outside our circles,” Evangeline said. “There are shop owners. Why, the owner of The Tattered Page is single…”
“A bookshop owner?” Lady Monroe held her hand to her chest. “Honestly, Olivia, you should worry about your daughter’s choices.”
Prudence wasn’t necessarily pretty but she did have lush, brown, wavy hair that was often remarked upon. Her suitors often lost interest once they were subjected to her constant pouting and complaining.
Tea was brought and placed in front of Evangeline’s mother and she poured for everyone. Her hand shook, but she poured without incident, ensuring to place an embroidered doily under each cup before passing it to the others.
Just then, there was a knock at the door and Evangeline’s friend, Rose Edwards, was announced.
Dressed in a beautiful green morning gown, her auburn hair pulled up into a simple style, a happy Rose walked into the room. The bright smile faded at noting Lady Monroe and Prudence were in attendance.
Rose’s bright blue eyes met Evangeline’s. “Oh, I am so sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude.” She curtsied in front of Lady Monroe. “Pleasure to see you, Lady Monroe and Prudence.”
Her aunt barely acknowledged Rose.
“Nonsense, you are quite welcome, dear.” Evangeline’s mother motioned to an empty chair. “We are discussing the upcoming social season and your perspective would be greatly appreciated.”
Lady Monroe blew out a breath. “Yes, well, I am sure my Prudence has plenty of knowledge of what is popular this season. She has already attended two social gatherings and several teas.” Her eyes slid past Evangeline to Rose. “How many have you attended?”
Rose blushed and shrugged. “Evangeline and I went to a tea just yesterday. It was most delightful to spend time with Lady Turlington.”
Both the Prescott and Edwards families had always enjoyed spending time with the older, eccentric Lady Turlington and her husband. Although titled, the duke and wife rarely left their home. With only one son, they rarely had company and so Evangeline, Rose and their parents often visited the old couple.
The Edwards family was not as connected to social circles as the Monroes. Rose’s father owned Arthington’s, a high-end furniture store. The family fortune came from sales and not inheritance like that of well-established families.
Like most titled men, Lord Monroe, Prudence’s father, had not earned any of the money the family boasted about. They lived from the family fortune left from generations before.
Evangeline smiled warmly when accepting the tea from her mother and then turned to Rose. “Prudence has invited me to help with the décor of the ballroom again this year.”
“Delightful,” Rose replied in a rather bland tone that made Evangeline struggle not to laugh.
Prudence was, of course, oblivious met Rose’s gaze. “You can help as well. I am not good with the menial tasks of plopping flowers into vases.”
This time, Evangeline giggled. “We will certainly help.”
Her aunt and Prudence began discussing the upcoming season’s plans with her mother which, of course, did not include Evangeline.
“Should we discuss the next meeting of the book club?” Evangeline asked Rose.
For several years, they and three other women had formed a small but vibrant