Read Secrets of a Proper Countess for Free Online Page B

you’d been allowed to make your debut. You should be thankful that discreet arrangements were made for you to marry quietly, to spare you such an ordeal.”
    Isobel gave the napkin another killing twist. No, there had been no balls, no dances, no parties in her honor, no pretty gowns, no flirting or fun of any kind. Her marriage had been a dry legal matter, made with the sense that Robert was ashamed of her, even if her dowry made him very rich.
    Honoria picked up an envelope from the little silver tray by her elbow. “Look, here is our invitation to the young lady’s come-out ball. It will be something to see, won’t it?” She tore open the heavy cream envelope and scanned the invitation, then waved it at Charles. “The ball is only a week away! Lady Miranda’s great-aunt is hosting the event, and the Duke of Carrington will be in attendance. If the duke is there, it seems likely that the Prince Regent will put in an appearance. They might have given more warning—I’ll need a new gown for the occasion.” She fussed with her frilled shawl, preening. Honoria fancied herself a pillar of fashion, but she chose styles meant for girls half her age. Her penchant for ruffles made her look ridiculous, and even older than her fifty-eight years.
    Charles chuckled. “Well, I suppose it will be the event to attend this Season. I’m personally looking forward to it.I’d like to see if the poor girl can rise above her brother’s reputation. If she has a big enough dowry, I might even court her. D’you suppose Blackwood will dare to attend the ball?”
    â€œIsn’t Lord Blackwood one of England’s most marriageable men?” Isobel asked. “He is wealthy, titled, and—” And handsome, charming, and sinfully good at making a lady forget herself. She swallowed. “—and heir to a dukedom,” she finished breathlessly.
    Honoria snorted. “He’ll never marry a truly respectable girl. None of the best families would accept a rake and a fool like him as a son-in-law. My guess is he’ll have to marry a foreigner, and then he’ll forever be an outsider.”
    â€œAs he deserves.” Charles thumped his empty wineglass down and signaled for more.
    Isobel read the naked dislike in her brother-in-law’s eyes and wondered how it was possible to hate a man for his reputation, yet consider marrying his sister. She suppressed a shudder.
    Marrying Charles would be even more unpleasant than being tied to his older brother. If she got the chance, she’d warn Blackwood’s young sister to run for the nearest convent rather than consider a match with Charles Maitland.
    â€œI suppose you’d best attend as well, Isobel. The invitation includes you.” Isobel felt her mouth twist. As Countess of Ashdown, the invitation was probably addressed to her. Honoria would not be able to go at all if she didn’t attend.
    â€œBe ready at ten o’clock. You may wear your maroon bombazine. Have your maid hang it now so the creases fall out in time. It is a dignified, sober garment, nothing to draw unwanted attention to yourself,” Honoria said sternly. “I shall ask Jane to advise you on your hair.”
    Isobel forced a smile. “Thank you, but I’m sure Sarah will know the right style for such an event. Miss Kirk willneed all her time to dress your hair, Honoria,” she added, keeping her tone sweet. The barb went unnoticed.
    Charles waved the folded newspaper at Isobel. “I read that Evelyn Renshaw’s masquerade ball was a great success,” he said.
    Isobel regarded the next course of her lunch as it was placed before her. A whole trout stared up at her in dull surprise, as if it knew just what she’d been up to at that ball. She carefully placed a sliced almond over the fish’s judgmental eye and toyed with the limp green beans that shared the plate.
    â€œAccording to the Times ,”