Page 3 of Entertaining the Earl (Vows in Vauxhall Gardens #2)
S usannah sat in the window seat, alternating between reading a few more pages of her beloved book and watching London society as it passed by her window.
She had no desire to be out there, but she did sometimes enjoy watching as the ton paraded down Mayfair, conversing and laughing, trying to attract attention, or flirting and giggling with some new beau.
Often, a young couple would be accompanied by one of their mothers, or maids trailing behind to chaperone.
Susannah liked to make up stories in her head about them—where they were going, who they were, what they wanted in life.
One day, although she had never admitted it aloud, she wanted to write her own novel—just like Miss Austen.
But she knew without asking that her father would never approve. He did not like anyone knowing or reminding him that he had earned his fortune. He had not dirtied his hands, of course—but he had overseen large shipments of goods which had given him the riches he so desired, if not the title.
He expected more from his daughter—wanted more for her. And so he certainly would never accept her earning money through something so common as writing.
Susannah sighed and turned back to her book.
She didn’t care about the money, in truth—other than that it might be a sign that people valued her work.
The Lyttletons had more money than Susannah would ever know what to do with.
Her dowry was larger than that of the daughters of viscounts and earls.
She just wanted to write, and for people to read what she had written.
Just as she was getting engrossed in the story in the pages before her, the parlor door opened—and she looked up to see her father standing there, looking exceptionally pleased with himself.
“Susannah, I would like to present to you our very special guest, the Earl of Bourne.”
As her father stepped to one side to allow the gentleman behind him into the room, Susannah stood, put down her book, and smoothed out her skirts.
It was important to her father that she made a good impression on this earl, that she showed their family in the very best light, and so she meant to make an effort.
But when the Earl of Bourne stepped into the room, all words left her head. She was usually quiet, preferring to think and read rather than socialize, but she had never been accused of being empty-headed. In that moment, however, her mind felt entirely blank.
She had been expecting an elderly gentleman, with a receding hairline, or a powdered wig, perhaps carrying a cane.
But the Earl of Bourne was nothing like she had imagined.
He was tall, far taller than her father, with a head full of blond curls and the most dazzling blue eyes she had ever seen.
His skin was more tanned than was fashionable in London society, but it only made him more handsome.
He was, without a doubt, the most attractive gentleman Susannah had ever met—and for some reason, his presence made her blush and forget how to speak.
“Lord Bourne,” her father said, looking rather puzzled at his daughter’s silence. “Please allow me to present my daughter, Miss Susannah Lyttleton.”
The earl bowed his head, and, after a glare from her father, Susannah remembered the need to curtsy.
“A pleasure to meet you, Lord Bourne,” she managed to squeak out.
“The pleasure is mine, Miss Lyttleton,” he said, and his voice sent a ripple through Susannah, one she did not quite understand.
“As I told you, Lord Bourne will be here for the entirety of the Season. I’m sure you will make him feel welcome.”
“Yes, Papa,” she said, finding it easier to avoid the earl’s eyes and simply address her father. At least that way, she could get some words out.
“And please, Lord Bourne, make yourself entirely at home. Anything you need, just ask.”
“You are most kind,” the earl said. “I am very grateful for your hospitality. I must admit, returning to London after so many years away is rather daunting. I am grateful for your guidance.”
Looking overjoyed that the earl was so appreciative, Mr. Lyttleton showed him from the room, leaving Susannah mercifully alone.
For a moment, she stood absolutely still as her heart began to return to its normal rhythm. Once her limbs had unfrozen, she took a seat in an armchair and took a deep breath.
What on earth had that been about? Never in her life had the appearance of a gentleman caused her to react so.
And had she not been in the presence of handsome gentlemen before?
None came to mind. Of all the gentlemen she had danced with in her three Seasons on the marriage mart, not a single one had made her feel so giddy.
And not a single one could compare in looks to the Earl of Bourne.
She reached for her book, but she could not focus on the words written on the page.
She was rather disturbed by the way she had reacted.
This was surely not how a logical, sensible woman responded.
And the man would think she was a simpleton.
He was to stay in their house for the Season, and she could not possibly allow herself to become so empty-headed every time she was in his presence. It simply would not do.
Susannah drummed her fingers on the book and told herself that it was simply a reaction of surprise, because she had expected an old man.
Yes, that was it. Her body had just reacted due to the unexpectedness of Lord Bourne.
Next time, she would be prepared and wouldn’t respond in such a foolish way.