Page 47 of The Wallflower Takes All

Mama lifted her nose into the air. “I am providing color.”

“You are providing mortification,” Poppy told her.

Mr. Ashby’s gaze flicked to Poppy’s face, and she had the distinct impression he was trying not to smile.

Bea arrived moments later with Lord Vanover. She took in Count Bellarosa, Mr. Ashby, Mama’s expression, Poppy’s expression, and the entire arrangement of the foyer in one swift glance. “Ah,” she said to Poppy. “Excellent. I see you have acquired an entourage.”

“One does like to make an entrance,” Poppy murmured.

Bea squeezed her hand. “You look beautiful.”

“You are all very intent upon saying that,” Poppy replied.

“Because it is true,” Georgie added.

Bea pulled Poppy and Georgie to the side. “Lord Vanover has made inquiries,” Bea said. “There are three or four gentlemen who might be suitable, provided they possess sense, courage, and a constitution strong enough to withstand Lady Viva.”

“An impossible combination,” Poppy nearly whispered.

“Difficult,” Georgie allowed. “Not impossible.”

Bea’s expression turned thoughtful. “There is also Lord Caldermere, though Nicholas says one does not simply toss the Marquess of Caldermere into a matchmaking scheme and hope for the best.”

“That sounds ominous,” Poppy said.

“There are rumors,” Bea replied. “He may be a later measure. For tonight, Lord Rillington has arrived, and he is looking this way.”

Poppy’s pulse sped up.

Lord Rillington stood near the drawing room doors, tall, fair, and undeniably handsome. He lacked Mr. Ashby’s devastating sort of handsomeness—good heavens, she must stop making that comparison—but he was very pleasing to look upon.

According to Bea, he was also unmarried, solvent, recently returned from abroad, and reasonably young. At present, those qualities placed him among the finest men in England.

“Smile,” Bea whispered.

“I am smiling,” Poppy replied through tightly clenched teeth.

“You look prepared to negotiate with a creditor,” Bea shot back.

“That is my most practiced expression.”

“Try something less practiced.”

Poppy drew in a breath, lifted her chin, and did her best.

Lord Rillington approached, guided by Lord Vanover, who performed the introductions with elegant efficiency.

“Miss Montfort,” Lord Rillington said, bowing over her hand after he’d greeted the others. “I am honored.”

His voice was pleasant. His smile was easy. His eyes lingered on her face in a manner that suggested Mama had been right about the blue gown.

A fragile hope stirred inside of Poppy. “How kind.”

“I am told Lady Pembroke has arranged this dinner in your honor,” Lord Rillington continued.

Poppy’s smile held, though by force. “She is too kind.”

“I am fortunate to have been invited,” he said.