My Lady Mischief by Kathy Carmichael

"What a wonderful solution, Thea. I only wish it had been my own." She patted her companion's arm. "But are you certain you could not come to care for Lord Hartingfield?"
    "I cannot see how." Thea bit her lip. "Miss Mimms warned me about men like him. He's a profligate. A cad. He cares more for his cattle than me. Why, I'd rather live my life as an ape leader than tied to him.
    "Besides, it is my intent to reside at Steyne and I do not think Lord Hartingfield would agree. I shall be much better off seeking a more compliant gentleman."
    "Very well. We can be comfortable again with such a good plan to follow. But, Thea." Emma would die of curiosity if she didn't ask. "I would like to hear more about Lord Hartingfield's kisses."

Chapter Seven

    London was a teeming, smoke-and people-filled metropolis, greatly exceeding Thea's expectations. The travel-wearied party approached the outskirts of town in the late afternoon. Thea's stomach was aflutter with excitement as the coach made its stately way through narrow city streets still bustling with activity.
    Concerned about the necessity of their close proximity, she had felt her burden lighten considerably upon learning of Hart's decision to ride beside the carriage on his own mount. Just then he waved at her and she ducked her head back into the carriage.
    Hart acknowledged her need to avoid him, and it did not please him. After all, she had agreed to get to know him and that promise did not signify they would be leg-shackled. But, she would make good on her promise. And he would do his utmost to convince her of the benefits of their union.
    The carriage pulled up to Lady Prunella's elegant town house, a large Georgian structure. He dismounted to help them from the carriage. An elderly and rheumatic butler opened the door and led them into a cavernous hallway replete with Grecian statues.
    Mrs. Wiggins would be traveling on to visit with an old friend. After Thea bid her goodbye, Emma gave her a tremendous hug. As they spoke, Hart whispered to Thea, "I will call upon you and your aunt in the morning."
    "I thank you for your consideration, my lord, but that will be unnecessary."
    "Necessary, or not," he stated with a resolute expression, "I will see you tomorrow. Au revoir, my sweet."
    Thea watched him depart with Mrs. Wiggins, then turned to the butler.
    "My lady is expecting you, Lady Althea, Miss Rawlings," he said. "She requested that you be brought to her upon your arrival."
    "Thank you," she replied. "And you are?"
    "Phelps, my lady."
    Thea nodded.
    "Sarah," he flicked his fingers and a maidservant appeared out of nowhere, "will escort you to Lady Prunella." He bowed as the middle-aged servant led them up the curving stairwell.
    During the walk through the townhouse, Thea was surprised to see what appeared to be dozens of footmen lining the halls and passageways. She brushed the thought off as tiredness and continued on her way.
    Passing along what seemed to be an endless corridor, Emma accidentally dropped her reticule. Both she and Thea were astounded when two extremely lofty footmen dove for it, almost beaming each other on the head. Neither young woman could restrain a laugh at their antics.
    The maid had almost lost them, having failed to notice the commotion. The young women rushed to catch up with her.
    Another footman swung open the sitting room door and announced their arrival. Upon entering, Thea felt a bit intimidated by the Egyptian furnishings in the room, which even included a gold-leafed daybed in the shape of a crocodile with clawed feet for legs. However, Aunt Prunella's greeting could not have been warmer.
    "Welcome, my dears! Thea, I was so delighted to receive your letter about bringing Miss Rawlings with you." Directing a sweet smile at the young woman, she added, "Welcome. I haven't seen either of you in dog's years."
    "Yes, Aunt." Thea gave her a quick embrace. "I was fourteen at your last visit to Steyne."
    "Oh, no. Can it be that long? Well, no matter.