Imperfect (Disappeared #1)

Chapter Fifteen

Chewing his bacon slowly, Edward sat opposite Theodosia with a sly smile on his face like a fox eyeing a chicken. Dressed in a powder blue confection, Theodosia shifted uncomfortably as she tried to glare at him without being caught by her mother.

They were all gathered in the breakfast room around the long wooden table. The early morning sun slanted through the window and set the crystal chandeliers sparkling. Theodosia was trying to be on her best behavior and also to eat as much as possible. There were scores of hot rolls with fresh butter and preserves made from cherries, apples, and raspberries. Then there was hot bacon, smoked herring, beef tongue in horseradish sauce, and grilled trout in a butter sauce, platters of eggs, plus tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and brandy. 

The countess practically glowed as she surveyed the dishes presented by the gloved footmen. Theodosia was happy that the cook and her assistant would get a warm thank you and a present or two besides.

It was about half past nine in the morning. Theodosia had already been on a walk with Lady Merton in the rose garden. She was aware she was supposed to be making a good impression, though the lady was a constant stream of nervous gossip and opinions. Theodosia had only to nod, smile, and stop herself from running until she was deep in the forest. 

Everyone was in good spirits at breakfast. Edward tried to tempt her with stories of his latest shooting excursion in Scotland. Meanwhile, her stomach twisted as she wondered how long the Mertons planned to stay. There would be no way her mother would allow her to go for a solo walk. 

A telegram solved all of Theodosia's problems very neatly.

Lane stepped into the room and delivered the slip of paper on a silver tray to Lord Merton, who unfolded the paper. His eyebrows shot up immediately and he blanched.

"My dear, what is the matter?" his wife asked.

"I'm afraid there's been an accident. My mother had another fainting spell and she fell on the stairs. Apparently nothing's broken, but she's asking for me to come immediately." Beads of sweat appeared on his forehead. He wiped them away. Amazingly though, his eyes drifted over to Edward and Theodosia as if he was worried for them.

"I suppose we should all go, then," his wife answered unhappily.

"Yes, her health is the most important thing," Theodosia's mother said, though her expression betrayed a different opinion.

The Mertons excused themselves to pack up. Theodosia was instructed to wait at the door for Edward's departure. He approached her and bowed graciously. 

"Please forgive my abrupt departure. I was hoping we would have more time to get acquainted in the coming days. But I promise you I shall introduce you to the cream of London society. If we are to be married, you shall have to know the right people. Ah, don't look so sour, Lady Theodosia. I promise you that the theatre, balls, and opera will be more spectacular than you could imagine."

 "You are too kind," she murmured. 

As the Mertons' carriage rumbled away down the lane, Theodosia allowed the idea of London to drift through her mind. She imagined the soaring notes of a great opera, the strains of an orchestra in an opulent hall, the way the Thames River must look at dawn. It would all be wonderful. The problem was that going to London came with the obligation to dress like a peacock, shut her mouth, and marry whom she must. With those terms, London could never be for her.

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Man, that Edward is vile...

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