Auctioned

15

Alex's threats traveled home with her after the house party and stayed in her head as the weeks progressed.

Seeing Alex at balls and parties with women in his arms tore her heart and made her want to beg forgiveness. He looked sober and healthy as he circled the dance floors.

He was seldom seen in the Tattler, only to speculate on his future bride or his recent appearances in the House of Lords. The marrying mamas whispered more about his potential as the men huffed about his good fortune.

Penelope's monthly was due to arrive any day. Minerva was constantly asking for updates, but there were none to give.

The number of suitors also increased. Not for trying, but like before the house party, they claimed she glowed or otherwise changed. So Penelope busied her time in the salon with men of the peerage.

The day her monthly should start, she was on a stroll with Mr. Honeycutt in Hyde Park. He was droning about the railroad when two horses approached them in the opposite direction.

Penelope could easily see it was Alex and Jasmine. The beauty was devastating to look upon as the jealousy roared in Penelope's ears. Penelope dipped her head as she did the last time seeing them in the park.

But this time, Jasmine spoke. "Cousin! Tis Lady Penelope!" 

Penelope darted her eyes between them. Cousin? 

"I dare say, Lady Penelope, it has been forever since seeing you!" she exclaimed. "Cousin Alex here was just saying..."

"Jaz," Alex warned.

"Oh, hush you," Jasmine waved Alex off. "Perhaps we can walk with you a bit. Who is this?"

Mr. Honeycutt was more than eager to meet Jasmine and help her from her horse.  He even took the reins as they walked in front of Penelope and Alex.

Penelope didn't say anything to Alex. It was best they left things alone.

"Any word yet?" he finally asked.

"Not yet. Shortly."

"Good," he muttered. "This man...?"

"Mr. Honeycutt," I added.

"Mmhm, are you..."

"No, we met a few days ago."

"Hm," he hummed.

"I didn't know Jasmine was your..."

"Yes."

"Why didn't you correct..."

"Because I enjoyed it," he cleared his throat. "I enjoyed your jealousy."

"Oh," she whispered.

"Yes."

They walked a little more. "So she did think I was too good for you?" Penelope chuckled a bit.

"Yes," he nodded. "She is a good judge of character."

Penelope giggled at that. "I'm glad she is your cousin, so I may like her now."

"Yes, Jaz was angry that I did that. She wanted you to be her friend."

"Oh," she whispered again.

Again they walked in mournful silence until Alex stopped and took her arm.

"I miss you, Nell."

"Alex," she sighed. "Please don't say such things."

He gave a curt nod and started to walk again. "I'm sorry."