Page 43 of A Rogue to Reform

“She needs a bit of a break every so often.” Felicity did not explain further; Henry seemed to understand.

He walked to her friend and lowered to look at her. “Go ahead, Felicity. I will sit here with Hannah until I am sure she is prepared to return and face the ongoings out there.”

“Thank you,” Hannah whispered in an awed tone.

Felicity gave Henry a warning look. It was obvious that Hannah could barely tear her eyes from him. If he hurt her in any way, she would personally see to his public hanging.

At the end of the evening, Felicity collapsed on the settee and fell sideways. It had been a success. Two men had asked to be invited for tea the following day. Her mother accepted invitations on her behalf as Felicity pretended not to hear.

“I have things to do tomorrow,” she told her mother, who walked in with more energy than should be allowed.

“Richard is from a wonderful family, and I believe Calum Ross is in line for a title.”

“Poo,” Felicity replied. “Titles are boring.”

“Be that as it may, it would be something wonderful for your children.” Her mother smiled broadly. “Go get some rest. Tomorrow will be a busy day.”

“I promised to visit Hannah in the morning. We have to…”

Her mother gave her a knowing look. “I understand. You have to go over every detail of the event. Just be sure to return in plenty of time to change for tea.”

Chapter Eleven

“Are you sure your brother is up? This is very early for him.” Hannah peered out the window as they neared Evan and Grant’s home.

Felicity’s heart sank at seeing a familiar carriage in front of the house. Her driver brought theirs to a stop behind where Sorcha Robertson’s carriage was.

“This is most awkward,” Hannah exclaimed. “Perhaps we should leave.”

“Nonsense,” Felicity replied. “Not only do I wish to confront Evan because he lied to me, I also want to apologize to Grant for looking out for me.”

Just as they arrived at the door, it was opened by the butler and Sorcha emerged. Her eyes widened at seeing Felicity.

“What are you doing here?” she asked with a sneer. “It is most disgraceful to chase after a man. Evan is indisposed at the moment.”

Despite the situation, Felicity laughed. “Says the woman leaving a man’s home.” She rolled her eyes. “My brother lives here.”

Sorcha obviously had no comeback, and without another word, swept past, bumping Felicity’s shoulder.

“What a witch,” Hannah exclaimed. That her friend said something like that made Felicity chuckle.

“If it wasn’t that my heart is broken and I am so angry right now, I would demand a celebration at your newly found boldness.”

Grant came to the door; obviously the butler had summoned him. With his hair pointed in every direction and crookedly buttoned shirt, it was obvious Sorcha had awakened him.

“I must speak to you,” Felicity said, walking into the house. “I think I owe you…” She looked around. “Where is Evan? I want to slap him.”

“Get in line,” Grant said. “You’ll have to go to his place of work. He is not here.”

“Oh.” Felicity and Hannah exchanged looks. Sorcha had implied he was there to anger Felicity.

“Now what do you owe me because I am going back to bed. You can do what you wish. Just do not burn the house down. Sorcha already threatened to do that.”

“Goodness,” Hannah said, her hand on her throat.

“Mother expects you at the house at two o’clock sharp.” Felicity motioned to Hannah and they walked back out.

“Interesting,” Felicity said. “Sorcha seems a woman scorned.”