The Potter's Lady by Judith Miller Page B

who had been invited to attend the early supper started arriving. She was descending the stairs when she saw the Harkness family entering the foyer. Several years had passed since she’d last seen Joshua. He’d always been attractive, but he was now more muscular. His shoulders had broadened, and he appeared at least four inches taller. A slight smile played at her lips as she thought of the girls at school who would have swooned to be seated next to Joshua Harkness at a dinner party.
    Laura motioned her forward. “Do you remember Joshua Harkness, Rose?”
    Rose gave a slight nod. “Of course. I believe you attended church services with us when you last visited Bartlett several years ago.”
    He smiled. “I don’t recall attending church, but I do remember you.” He grinned. “You became angry when I asked if you had as many thorns as the roses in my mother’s garden.”
    “I had forgotten you were one of the many who teased me about my name.” Rose chuckled. “You need not tremble in fear. I no longer lose my temper when jokes are made about thorns and roses.”
    He pretended to wipe perspiration from his forehead. “I’m relieved to hear that. I was preparing to run for the door.”
    They entered the large parlor and continued to visit while the remainder of the guests arrived. When dinner was announced, Joshua expressed pleasure that they would be seated side by side. “I must admit I didn’t want to come to this party, but my parents insisted. I confess that I’m glad I gave in to their wishes.”
    Rose was unaccustomed to the flattery of men, and her cheeks warmed in embarrassment as Joshua complimented her eyes, her dress, and her sense of humor. How had she ever thought him aloof? While they dined, Rose suddenly understood how the girls at school had become captivated by the attention of young men. During the soup, salad, and main course, Joshua remained responsive, his interest in her never waning. He agreed to have her visit the pottery, but quickly added he’d much prefer to take her to a social gathering in Fairmont or Wheeling. Never before had she experienced the giddy feelings that now swirled through her midsection. Though she disliked acting like the girls at school, there was no denying the fact that Joshua Harkness would be quite a catch.
    He leaned closer as fluted dishes of snowball custard were served to each of the guests. “Perhaps I should write my name on all the lines of your dance card before we finish dessert.”
    At his mention of the dance, Rose was struck by an idea. Even though she’d given Beatrice a few lessons, the nanny remained fearful she’d appear foolish on the dance floor. She took a sip of water and turned toward Joshua. “I wonder if I could ask another favor of you.”
    “Two favors in one evening?” He grinned. “For you, I may be able to manage two. Other than visiting my pottery, how else may I be of service to you?”
    Rose quickly explained that she’d invited Beatrice to the dance, and the nanny’s fear of making a mistake on the dance floor. “I would be so grateful if you would dance with her several times throughout the evening. She’s a distant relative, and since she’s had few opportunities to attend formal parties, I want her to enjoy the evening.”
    “Few opportunities or none at all?” Joshua gave her a sidelong glance. “Is this her first time at a formal dance?”
    “Yes, but I did practice with her a wee bit, and she’s really quite agile. You need not—”
    He held up his hand to stay her. “I only inquired so that I might know exactly what to expect. I had hoped to have the first dance with you, but if you think it would be more helpful to . . .” he hesitated. “What is her name?”
    “Beatrice Murphy.”
    He nodded and continued. “If you think it would be more helpful to Miss Murphy, I’ll sign her card for the first dance. And others if you’d like.”
    “Oh, would you, Joshua?” Rose’s excitement mounted.